945 — Special Purpose Travel Authority

The Australian Special Purpose visa is a statutory exemption under the Migration Act 1958, granted automatically with no application or fee to people holding 'prescribed status'. Categories include foreign military personnel under SOFA, airline crew, ship crew, diplomatic guests, and Royal Family members.

The visa remains valid while prescribed status is maintained and ceases immediately if that status ends. Work is restricted to duties tied to the prescribed status. qualifying dependents, such as foreign armed forces family members, may qualify in their own right. No pathway to permanent residency.

This visa is ideal for foreign military personnel, airline crew, ship crew, and official government guests whose entry is a matter of official duty rather than personal migration intent.