A temporary visa to work in specific circumstances that improve Australia's international relations.
At a Glance
- Stay: Varies by stream: up to 4 years in several streams; up to 12 months first visa for Domestic Worker; up to 2 years for MATES; period of your role for Privileges and Immunities
- Visa cost: From AUD470.00 (concessions apply in limited circumstances) (From 1 July 2026 a lower cost applies to eligible Pacific Island and Timor-Leste citizens. Privileges and Immunities stream is free; Pacific Australia Labour Mobility stream is from AUD365.00.)
Who It Is For
- Each stream has its own eligibility requirements
- Government Agreement stream: work under a bilateral agreement between governments
- Foreign Government Agency stream: represent a foreign government agency or teach a foreign language in an Australian school
- Domestic Worker stream: aged 18 or over, working in the household of a subclass 995 visa holder
- PALM stream: citizen and resident of a participating country, sponsored by an approved PALM employer
What You Can Do With This Visa
- Work in Australia in the circumstances of your stream
- PALM workers can work up to 9 months (short-term contract) or up to 4 years (long-term contract)
- Apply in or outside Australia in some streams (not from immigration clearance)
Good to Know
- Domestic Worker stream applicants must be outside Australia for the first application and when decided
- Privileges and Immunities stream needs a DFAT support letter
- MATES stream is for Indian graduates and early-career professionals and requires selection in a ballot
Getting Advice
Our registered migration agents can talk through your situation, explain whether this visa suits you and help you prepare. This page is general information only, summarised from the Department of Home Affairs and checked in November 2026. Fees and rules change, so always check the official page before you apply.
Official information: the Department of Home Affairs page for this visa.