Australia Entertainment Visa (Subclass 420)

The Australia Entertainment Visa permits you to temporarily work in Australia in the entertainment industry. The entertainment industry in Australia is defined as topics such as movies, TV or live production. This may be as an actor, musician etc. or behind the scenes roles such as producing or directing.

Sponsorship is necessary to apply for the Australia Entertainment Visa. Before you submit your application your sponsor will be required to liaise with the relevant union regarding your employment in Australia.

The position you propose on your Visa application will be the only position you can work on with this Visa. The length of your involvement with the Australian entertainment industry will determine the length of the Australia Entertainment Visa. Your spouse and any dependent children can be included on your Visa application.

Eligibility requirements for the Australia Entertainment Visa (requirements are dependent on your intended role):

Performer in Film or TV

• You must be entering Australia to complete a chief role, major supporting and cameo role or to meet the production teams ethnic or other special requirements.
• You must be sponsored by an Australian establishment or person.
• You are an essential performer in one or more specific schedules in a film or television production in Australia (other than non - commercial cultural or educational engagements).

Performer not in film or TV

• You are a performer in one or more events not involving film or television production in Australia (other than non - commercial cultural or educational engagements). One example would be live production.
• You must be sponsored by an Australian person or organisation.

Directors and Producers

• You must be sponsored by an Australian person or organisation.
• You can apply if you are directing/producing a film, TV, radio, or other part (excluding performers) concert or recorded production (which is being shown or performed in Australia).

Non- Commercial Productions

• You must be performing in Australia for cultural or entertainment arrangements for non-commercial purposes.
• You must be sponsored by an Australian establishment or person.

Supporting an Entertainer or Group of Entertainers

• You must be supporting an entertainer/s in a performance/s in Australia (personal services/assisting in the performance).
• You must be sponsored by an Australian person or organisation.

Country to Country agreements

• You will not need to be sponsored by an Australian person or organisation, nor union consultation.
• Your intention to enter Australia is under an arrangement with another country and Australia. (Evidence must be provided by the relevant authorities in the other country and Australia).
• Your Visa application must meet any requirements of the country to country arrangement and Immigration satisfied that these criteria have been met.

Frequently Asked Questions

When shall I apply?
We recommend a minimum of 4-6 weeks prior of your intended date of travel to Australia.
How long can I stay in Australia?
Requirements are dependent on your role and this will determine the length of time you are required in the Australian entertainment industry.
Will I need a sponsor?
Yes - Sponsorship is necessary to apply for the Australia Entertainment Visa. Before you submit your application your sponsor will be required to liaise with the relevant union regarding your employment in Australia.