Guidance on Visa Categories
Coaching in the Round: Indigenous Perspectives in Coaching Research and Practice, 18–19 June 2027, so-called Australia, on Gadigal Country
The correct visa category will depend on the role at the conference, and specifically for speakers, workshop facilitators, and research poster presenters, whether or not you will be paid for your participation.
This is general information, not immigration advice. You must check your personal circumstances with the Department of Home Affairs immi.homeaffairs.gov.au → or a Registered Migration Agent.
Delegates and Unpaid Contributors
If you're attending the conference as a Delegate, Research Poster Presenter, Workshop Faciliator, Speaker or Guest who is not being paid or employed to work whilst in Australia, you may fall into one of the following categories:
- Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) - Subclass 601
An online application with fast processing for eligible passport holders.* available to passport holders from European Union member states and several other European nations. Best suited to short conference visits.
Fast, no fee
- eVisitor Visa (Business Stream) - Subclass 651
An online application for passport holders from eligible countries,* ,* available to 34 passport nationalities, including the UK, US, Canada, Japan, and most EU countries, usually processed within one working day.
No application fee
- Visitor Visa, Business Stream - Subclass 600
For individuals who aren't eligible for the ETA or eVisitor Visa.* for individuals not eligible for either the ETA (601) or eVisitor (651) categories. Business Visitor Stream specifically covers activities like meetings, negotiations, or attending conferences (but not paid work). Can be applied for online or by paper form.
A visa application fee applies
None of these categories permits paid work or a paid speaking engagement in Australia; only reimbursement of reasonable expenses is generally allowed.
For Contributors Receiving Payment
If you're being paid for your contribution, a different visa category will usually apply:
- Temporary Activity Visa (Invited Participant Stream) - Subclass 408
Designed for Contributors invited to participate by anAustralian organisation* A letter of support from the inviting organisation is generally required. Best suited to short conference visits.
Recommended at least two months before travel
- Temporary Work Visa (Short Stay Specialist) - Subclass 400
Suitable for highly specialised, time-critical paid engagements over a short period.* Often used where there is no formal inviting Australian organisation involved
Recommended at least two months before travel
These categories involve more documentation than a standard visitor visa, and processing can take longer.
Important Notes
- The correct category depends on the specifics of your invitation and payment arrangement!
- If you are being paid to speak, we strongly recommend seeking advice from a registered migration agent well ahead of your planned travel dates.
Application Timing
As a general guide, visa applications are typically recommended at least two months before travel, and at least four months ahead if health or character considerations may apply to your application.
As set out on our Visa Overview, we recommend all delegates apply at least six months before the conference (by mid-December 2026) to allow a comfortable buffer above the recommended minimum.
Entry & Compliance Requirements
A few things to be aware of once your visa is granted and you're preparing to travel:
- You'll need to complete an Incoming Passenger Card and declare relevant health and character details on arrival.
- Depending on your nationality, you may be asked to provide biometric data at a visa application centre as part of your application.
- Some applicants may be required to complete a health assessment, which can include a medical examination.
- Carry your visa grant notice with you while travelling, it sets out your conditions and permitted period of stay.
Need Help?
If you have questions reach out to us at confaus@blackcoachers.com.