Visitors contribute to Sydney Law School by:

• presenting their work as part of our seminar and events program.
• contributing to our research centres and institutes.
• facilitating international research networks.
• collaborating on an Australian research project. 
• enriching our Continuing Professional Development program.

Visitors may be provided with:

• a University of Sydney login to use Sydney Law School computer facilities.
• access to the Herbert Smith Freehills Law Library.
• shared office space (if available).

Note: Assistance is not provided in arranging living accommodation

We seek applications from international and domestic scholars of high standing at any stage in their careers.

Applications may be submitted at any time of year, however visa processing times can take several months. International visitors are advised to submit their application at least 6 months before their intended visit.

1. Before submitting your application you will need to contact an academic sponsor or a research centre or institute at the Sydney Law School to secure support for your visit. Your sponsor must provide a letter or email which confirms:

• their overall support for your visit including their availability to meet you upon arrival at the Law School, introduce you to interested colleagues and involve you in the academic life of the Law School.
• how you will contribute to the Law School during your visit e.g. collaborative research, staff seminar, public seminar/lecture, mentoring of staff or students. This should be consistent with the information you provide in your application.
• You must include the sponsor's letter or email with your application.

2. Complete the application form.

Note: Visitor applications are reviewed by the Law School's Research Committee. Applications received after 15 November 2024 will not be considered until February 2025.

International visitors often require a visa. As a visitor, it is your responsibility to ensure you hold a valid visa for entry into Australia that will allow you to engage in all the activities you wish to undertake during your stay. 

The University’s Immigration and Global Mobility (I&GM) team advises that tourist and visitor visas (e.g. 600, 601, and 651) aren't suitable for visitors who plan to undertake research and/or require access to university resources during their visit.

If your application is approved, Sydney Law School will liaise with the I&GM team to determine the most suitable visa based on the nature and duration of your visit. Research visitors typically require a 408 Temporary Activity - Research Activities visa or 400 Temporary Work (Short Stay Specialist) visa. 

If you intend to visit any other universities in Australia, it is important that these  institutions are included in your visa application.

As some visas can take up to several months to be approved, it is important for applicants to consider visa processing times when planning the dates for their proposed visit. International visitors are advised to submit their application at least 6 months before their intended visit.