Australia is preparing to host one of the world’s largest sporting events—the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. As part of the planning and operational arrangements, the Australian Government has introduced a migration instrument that supports the entry of accredited personnel required for the event.

Under a new legislative instrument, Migration (Class of Persons for Nil VAC for subclass 408 Visas—Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games) Instrument 2025, establishes a special arrangement under the subclass 408 Temporary Activity visa program.

What the Instrument Does

The instrument identifies specific categories of people who are eligible to apply for a subclass 408 Temporary Activity visa under the AGEE stream with a nil Visa Application Charge (VAC). This means eligible applicants will not be required to pay the standard visa application fee when lodging their application.

Who Is Eligible?

The instrument defines the class of persons who qualify for the nil visa application charge (VAC) arrangement. Eligible applicants include individuals who are approved for accreditation for the event by the Brisbane 2032 Organising Committee, as well as members or personnel associated with key organisations involved in the Olympic and Paralympic movement.

These include personnel from:

• The International Olympic Committee (IOC)
• IOC Controlled Entities
• National Olympic Committees
• International Federations
• Rights-Holding Broadcasters
• The Official Timekeeper
• IOC Marketing Partners
• Accredited Media representatives

Individuals within these groups who apply as primary applicants for a Subclass 408 visa under the AGEE stream will be eligible for the nil Visa Application Charge.

Why This Matters

Large international events such as the Olympic and Paralympic Games rely on thousands of international staff, officials, broadcasters, and media personnel. The introduction of a nil VAC arrangement simplifies the visa process and reduces administrative barriers for accredited participants who are essential to delivering the Games.

By facilitating easier access to visas for accredited personnel, the Australian Government aims to ensure smooth operational planning and international participation in the Brisbane 2032 Games.

When the Instrument Applies

The instrument commenced on 21 January 2026 and will remain in force until the conclusion of the Games. It is scheduled to self-repeal on 6 September 2032, marking the end of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games period.

Brisbane Olympics 2032

The nil VAC arrangement for subclass 408 visas reflects Australia’s commitment to successfully hosting the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

By supporting accredited international participants and organisations, this measure helps streamline event operations and reinforces Australia’s role as a global host for major sporting events.

We look forward to seeing athletes and IOC personnel come join us here in Queensland over the next six years as we look forward to the 2032 Brisbane Olympic & Paralympic games!

Are you an athlete, visitor or family member coming to the Brisbane in 2032? Contact us today so we can assist with your visa application. A local Queensland law firm with the skills that can assist you through the 408 visa process.