National Innovation Visa Australia (Subclass 858) – Requirements, Process & PR Pathway

A permanent visa for highly talented individuals with internationally recognised achievements, designed to attract innovators, researchers, entrepreneurs, and creatives to Australia.

• Replaced the Global Talent Visa in December 2024 with a sharper focus on innovation.
• Requires an Expression of Interest (EOI) and invitation before applying.
• Prioritises applicants in critical sectors like technology, health, and renewable energy.
• Grants direct permanent residency, with rights to live, work, and study in Australia.
• Allows holders to sponsor eligible family members and access Medicare.

What is the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)?

The National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) is a permanent residency pathway for individuals with internationally recognised, outstanding achievements. It is designed to attract top global talent in fields such as research, innovation, entrepreneurship, technology, the arts, and sports, who can make a significant contribution to Australia’s future growth.

Introduced on 6 December 2024, the visa replaced both the Global Talent Visa and the Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP), creating a single streamlined pathway for exceptional talent.

The visa operates as an invitation-only program. Applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), after which the Department of Home Affairs assesses their achievements and potential contribution before issuing an invitation to apply. Successful applicants are granted direct permanent residency, with the ability to live, work, and study in Australia, access Medicare, and sponsor eligible family members.

Benefits of the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)

The National Innovation Visa offers highly skilled individuals and their families a direct and flexible pathway to live and contribute in Australia. Key benefits include:

• Direct Permanent Residency – Successful applicants are granted permanent resident status immediately, without the need for a provisional visa stage.
• No Job Offer Required – Eligibility is based on internationally recognised achievements and potential contribution, not on securing an employer sponsorship.
• No Formal English Requirement – Applicants are not required to meet a specific English test score, although strong communication skills remain valuable for integration.
• Priority Processing – Certain applicants, particularly in priority sectors, benefit from faster processing times under ministerial direction.
• Full Rights in Australia – Holders can live, work, and study anywhere in Australia, access Medicare, and sponsor eligible family members for residency.

Who Can Apply for the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)?

The National Innovation Visa is designed for individuals who have internationally recognised achievements and the potential to make a significant contribution to Australia’s innovation and economic priorities. Applicants must demonstrate they are leaders or emerging leaders in their field and be invited to apply after submitting an Expression of Interest.

Eligible applicants include:

• Researchers and Academics – Those with significant contributions to global knowledge and innovation.
• Entrepreneurs and Startup Founders – Individuals building innovative businesses with international impact.
• Elite Athletes and Creative Professionals – Globally recognised talent in sports, arts, or culture.
• Industry Leaders – Experts in priority sectors such as critical technologies, health industries, AgTech, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.

Note: This visa focuses on attracting the world’s best talent to support Australia’s long-term growth and competitiveness.

Eligibility Criteria for the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)

To qualify for the National Innovation Visa, applicants must demonstrate outstanding international achievements and the potential to make a lasting contribution to Australia. Key eligibility requirements include:

• Internationally Recognised Record of Achievement – Applicants must show exceptional and sustained accomplishments in their field, whether in academia, research, business, the arts, or sports.
• Nomination by an Eligible Endorser – A recognised Australian individual, organisation, or a state/territory government must nominate the applicant, confirming their reputation and contribution potential.
• Significant Contribution Potential – Applicants need to provide evidence that their skills and expertise will benefit Australia’s innovation, economy, or national interests.
• Invitation to Apply – Only those who receive an invitation after submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) are eligible to lodge a visa application.

Note: Meeting these criteria ensures that only the most talented individuals, with proven achievements and strong future potential, are selected for this permanent visa pathway.

Application Process – How to Apply for the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)

Step 1: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

Begin by lodging an EOI through the Department of Home Affairs system. This allows you to showcase your achievements, sector expertise, and intended contribution to Australia.

Step 2: Receive an Invitation to Apply

If your EOI is assessed as meeting the program’s high standards, you will receive an official invitation from the Department to proceed with a visa application. Only invited candidates can apply.

Step 3: Obtain a Nomination

You must secure a nomination from an eligible Australian individual, organisation, or a state/territory government. The nominator must have a national reputation in your field and confirm your international standing.

Step 4: Lodge Your Visa Application

Once invited, submit your complete visa application online within 60 days. This includes providing all supporting documents such as proof of achievements, passport, and nomination details.

Step 5: Await Processing and Decision

The Department of Home Affairs will assess your application, including security, character, and health checks. Successful applicants are granted permanent residency under the Subclass 858 visa.

Who Can Nominate You for the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)?

To be eligible for the National Innovation Visa, applicants must have a nomination from an approved individual or organisation. The nominator must hold a national reputation in the same field as the applicant and confirm their internationally recognised achievements.

Eligible nominators include:

• Australian Citizens or Permanent Residents – Respected individuals with established standing in your area of expertise.
• Eligible New Zealand Citizens – Recognised professionals who meet the eligibility requirements and are active in the applicant’s field.
• Australian Organisations – Bodies, associations, or institutions with a strong reputation in the relevant sector.
• State or Territory Governments – Nominations from government authorities are especially advantageous, as they align with Australia’s innovation and priority sector strategies.

Note: A strong nomination is a critical part of the application process, as it supports your claim of international recognition and your potential contribution to Australia’s national interest.

Processing Costs for the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)

The government application fee for the National Innovation Visa is currently AUD 4,840 for the main applicant. Additional charges apply for dependants and may vary depending on age. As fees are updated regularly, applicants should confirm the latest amounts through the Department of Home Affairs before lodging their application.

Processing Time for the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)

The processing time for the National Innovation Visa is generally faster than many other skilled migration visas, as it is designed to prioritise globally recognised talent. On average, most applications are processed within 6 to 12 months once lodged, although times can vary.

Key points to note:

• Priority Streams – Applications from state or territory nominated candidates, or those working in priority sectors such as technology, health, and renewable energy, are often processed more quickly.
• Indicative Timeframes – While the Department of Home Affairs provides estimated visa processing times, these are a guide only. Actual processing depends on the complexity of the case and the number of applications received.
• Factors Affecting Processing – The completeness of documents, nomination status, and additional checks such as health, character, or verification of international achievements can influence how long an application takes.

Note: Applicants are encouraged to lodge complete and accurate applications to help avoid unnecessary delays.

Latest Updates on the National Innovation Visa (2025)

• The National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) was launched on 6 December 2024, replacing both the Global Talent Visa and the Business Innovation and Investment Program.
• It is an invitation-only visa; applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and be invited before applying.
• The visa operates under a priority framework (Ministerial Direction 112), giving precedence to applicants in high-impact sectors such as critical technologies, health, AgTech, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing.
• State and Territory governments in 2025 have introduced their own nomination criteria, and securing a nomination often increases the likelihood of receiving an invitation.
• An annual planning level of around 4,000 places has been indicated for the 2024–25 program year, although allocations may vary.
• EOIs are generally valid for two years, giving applicants flexibility in the application process.

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