Of Australia's many visa options available for travelers entering the country, the Business (Short Stay) Visa (Subclass 456) is most suitable for businesspersons seeking to stay only a short while. Naturally, it is often used for businesspersons whose duties have demanded they attend a conference; who are prospecting for either an Australian franchise of an existing business or a new business altogether, or for businesspersons looking to negotiate with persons or businesses residing in Australia. This visa does not require sponsorship and there is an alternative (Subclass 459) for businesspersons with similiar business and duration expectations but an existing sponsor in Australia. Doctors are also expected to apply for a medical practicioner's visa rather than this one, regardless of the doctor's intentions for his or her stay.

Although the purpose of the visa is quite general (for businesspersons' activities that demand they enter Australia nonpermanently), the requirements are stringent and streamlined, due to the visa's popularity.

Initially, as the person making the visa claim, you may be asked to submit: evidence or certificates of existing educational or professional qualifications; evidence of your current employment and the purpose of your visit to Australia; evidence of you or your business' previous interactions with Australian businesspersons or organizations; evidence that you work for an actively operating business; evidence of invitation from a host company or organization in Australia; a rote letter from your employer detailing the purpose of your visit; details of the meeting time, place and the persons involved, if on a conference- or negotiation-based trip, and registration details of the conference you intend to be present for.

There are also preliminary health, 'character' and financial solubility requirements: if you are 75 years or older, or otherwise may endure health problems, you must undergo a health examination (it is possible to do this outside of Australia, with a doctor appointed by the Australian government.) You must have no uncleared debts to the Commonwealth of Australia and sufficient funds to support both yourself and your family during your residence in Australia. The 'character' test is dependent on a background check and if documentation or examination is necessary, you will be called upon after having made your visa application.

The Business (Short Stay) Visa (Subclass 456) will permit you to stay in Australia for up to three months, beginning on the date of each visa's entry. You may bring your partner, family or dependents to Australia. You may also enter and leave Australia at will during the visa's lifespan, given permission by the visa board. However, the visa cannot be renewed while you are currently residing in Australia under its aegis.

You are not generally permitted to work in Australia with this visa, but there are exceptions for highly-specialized work. It is illegal to undertake work that can be performed by an Australian citizen or a permanent resident. Please be aware that your visa will be tied to the passport number you submitted in your visa application and you should use the same passport on your actual trip to Australia; otherwise, you may experience significant delays or even be denied entry into the country.