On 6 December 2024, the Australian Department of Home Affairs introduced the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858), replacing the previous Global Talent Visa.

This updated program reflects Australia’s strategy to attract exceptional individuals from around the globe who can contribute to the country’s innovation ecosystem, economic growth, and global standing. The visa targets internationally recognised individuals across research, entrepreneurship, sports, and the arts.

As a pathway to permanent residency, the visa offers an array of benefits to its holders and their families, including access to public healthcare, work and study opportunities, and citizenship eligibility. However, its invitation-only nature makes it highly competitive, potentially prioritising those with outstanding achievements.

Table of Contents

1. 1. What is the National Innovation Visa?

1. 1. Who is Eligible for the National Innovation Visa?

1. 1. Benefits of the National Innovation Visa

1. 1. Key Changes from the Global Talent Visa

1. 1. Pros and Cons of the National Innovation Visa

1. 1. Who Should Consider This Visa?

1. 1. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. 1. Summary

What is the National Innovation Visa?

The National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) is a permanent residency visa designed to attract top-tier individuals who have internationally recognised achievements in their fields. The visa targets four key areas of talent: research, entrepreneurship, sports, and the creative arts. The program is invitation-based, requiring applicants to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and secure an invitation to apply.

Successful applicants are not only granted permanent residency but also enjoy access to a host of benefits, including the ability to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely, sponsor family members, and apply for citizenship if eligible. This visa reflects Australia’s commitment to attracting exceptional talent to advance its global competitiveness and drive innovation.

Who is Eligible for the National Innovation Visa?

To qualify for the National Innovation Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• • Field of Excellence: Applicants must have internationally recognised achievements in one of the following fields:
    • • A profession
    • • A sport
    • • The arts
    • • Academia and research

• • Nomination Requirement: A reputable individual or organisation in Australia must nominate the applicant. Nominators must have a national reputation in the applicant’s area of expertise. Acceptable nominators include:
    • • Australian citizens
    • • Australian permanent residents
    • • Eligible New Zealand citizens
    • • Australian organisations

• • Invitation to Apply: Applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and receive an invitation to apply for the visa. Once invited, applications must be lodged within 60 days.

• • Location Requirement: Applicants can be in or outside Australia but cannot be in immigration clearance when applying or when the visa is granted.

Benefits of the National Innovation Visa

The National Innovation Visa offers numerous benefits to successful applicants and their families, making it one of Australia’s most appealing pathways to permanent residency:

• • Permanent Residency: Visa holders gain permanent residency, which grants them the ability to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.

• • Access to Medicare: Permanent residents can enrol in Australia’s public healthcare system, Medicare, ensuring access to world-class medical care.

• • Work and Study Flexibility: Holders are free to work in any occupation and undertake further studies without restrictions.

• • Pathway to Citizenship: Visa holders can apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency and other eligibility requirements.

• • Family Sponsorship: Applicants can sponsor eligible family members to join them in Australia, creating opportunities for family reunification.

• • No Age Restrictions: Unlike other visas that cap eligibility at specific ages, the National Innovation Visa imposes no age limit.

• • Unlimited Travel: Visa holders have unrestricted travel rights to and from Australia for five years.

Key Changes from the Global Talent Visa

The National Innovation Visa introduces several key changes compared to its predecessor, the Global Talent Visa:

• • Invitation-Only Process: Applications are now invitation-only. Interested individuals must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and can only proceed if they receive an invitation.

• • Targeted Categories: The program focuses on four distinct talent categories: global researchers, entrepreneurs, innovative investors, and athletes/creatives.

• • Streamlined Application Process: EOIs are submitted directly via ImmiAccount, simplifying the process.

• • Updated Nomination Criteria: Nominators must have national reputations in their respective fields to support applicants.

• • Prime Minister’s Special Envoy Role Removed: The role of the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for Global Business and Talent Attraction has been discontinued.

Applications lodged before 6 December 2024 under the old Global Talent Visa criteria will still be processed under those rules. The new requirements apply only to applications lodged after this date.

Pros and Cons of the National Innovation Visa

Pros

1. 1. Permanent Residency Pathway
      The visa grants permanent residency, providing long-term stability and access to various rights and benefits for applicants and their families.

1. 1. No Age Restrictions
      Unlike many other Australian visas that impose age caps, this visa is open to talented individuals of all ages, broadening accessibility.

1. 1. Flexibility in Work and Study
      Visa holders are free to work in any occupation and pursue further education, allowing for career and personal development.

1. 1. Global Prestige
      Being granted this visa enhances the applicant’s reputation, as it recognises them as an exceptional talent on a global scale.

1. 1. Family Sponsorship Opportunities
      Holders can bring eligible family members to Australia, facilitating family reunification and long-term settlement.

1. 1. No Strict English Requirements
      Unlike many other visa pathways, this visa does not impose strict English language requirements, making it accessible to talented individuals from non-English-speaking countries.

1. 1. Priority Processing
      Applications for this visa are typically processed faster than other visa types, ensuring that top-tier talent can relocate to Australia promptly.

Cons

1. 1. Highly Competitive
      The invitation-only nature of the visa means it is only available to individuals with extraordinary achievements, making it unattainable for many skilled professionals.

1. 1. Invitation Requirement
      Applicants cannot apply directly; they must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and wait for an invitation. This process can be uncertain and time-consuming.

1. 1. Nomination Challenges
      Applicants must secure a nomination from a reputable individual or organisation in Australia, which can be difficult without strong local connections.

1. 1. High Cost
      With a starting application fee of AUD $4,840, the visa is relatively expensive compared to other pathways, potentially limiting accessibility for some individuals.

1. 1. No Direct Path for Emerging Talent
      The visa’s focus on internationally recognised achievements may exclude emerging talent who have potential but lack significant accolades or global recognition.

1. 1. Limited Access to Benefits for New Arrivals
      Newly arrived residents may face waiting periods before accessing some Australian government payments and benefits, limiting immediate support.

Who Should Consider This Visa?

The National Innovation Visa is ideal for individuals with a proven record of exceptional achievement. Suitable applicants include:

• • Researchers: Individuals with groundbreaking publications, high citation counts, or global recognition in their academic field.

• • Entrepreneurs: Successful founders or innovators developing cutting-edge products or services in priority industries, such as renewable energy, health tech, or artificial intelligence.

• • Innovative Investors: Investors with a track record of supporting transformative industries that contribute to economic growth.

• • Athletes and Creatives: World-class athletes and creatives, such as artists, performers, and designers, who can enhance Australia’s global reputation in sports and the arts.

This visa may not be suitable for skilled professionals or emerging talent who have yet to achieve significant international recognition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I apply directly for this visa?
No. You must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and wait for an invitation to apply.

2. Do I need a job offer to qualify?
No. The visa focuses on exceptional talent rather than employment status, although achievements and contributions to your field are critical.

3. Is there a limit to how many invitations are issued?
The number of invitations is based on annual quotas and government priorities. Only the most competitive applicants are invited.

4. Can I bring my family with me?
Yes. You can include eligible family members, such as your partner and dependent children, in your application.

5. What happens if my nomination is rejected?
A rejected nomination could make your application ineligible. It is essential to secure a nominator with a strong national reputation in your field.

Summary

The National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) represents a bold initiative by Australia to attract global leaders in research, entrepreneurship, sports, and the arts. Offering permanent residency and a host of benefits, the visa is designed for top-tier individuals who can contribute to Australia’s innovation-driven economy. While its competitive nature and strict requirements may limit accessibility, the visa remains a prestigious and rewarding pathway for those who meet its criteria. If you are an exceptional individual looking to make a lasting impact in Australia, this visa might be your gateway to new opportunities.