National Innovation Visa
*Coming early 2025
Pathway for Talented Innovators to Australia
If you are an accomplished individual seeking to relocate to Australia to continue your work or further your impact, this visa could be an ideal choice. It is set to replace the Global Talent Visa pathway.
The National Innovation Visa Subclass 858 is a specific type of Australian permanent visa available to individuals both in Australia and overseas who have an internationally recognised record of outstanding achievement in their field. This facilitates the entry of innovative entrepreneurs who demonstrate significant potential in fields like technology, research, and development. This visa is particularly suited to individuals who are involved in cutting-edge industries, including science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), and those with breakthrough ideas that can contribute to the Australian economy.
This visa allows recipients to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely, and it serves as a pathway to citizenship. Successful applicants can bring eligible family members along with them, enabling their families to also live, work, and study in Australia.
Eligibility Requirements
To apply for the National Innovation Visa Subclass 858, applicants must meet a series of eligibility requirements. While the specific conditions may vary, some of the general requirements include:
You must demonstrate a record of exceptional and outstanding achievement in your field of expertise.
Must have an internationally recognised reputation with evidence that may include awards, media coverage, published works, or references from notable individuals in the industry.
No Age Limit, but Age Considerations Apply. While there is technically no upper age limit for the National Innovation Visa, applicants over 55 must demonstrate that they will provide an exceptional benefit to Australia.
You and your family members must meet specific health and character requirements.
You must be nominated by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, eligible New Zealand citizen, or an Australian organisation with a reputation in the same field as the applicant.
Applicants must meet the required English language proficiency standards set by the Department of Home Affairs. This typically includes achieving a score on an approved English language test.
Target Field of Expertise
Musicians, artists, actors, or filmmakers
High-performing athletes or sports coaches
Researchers
Scientists
Academics with groundbreaking contributions in their fields
Innovators
Inventors
Entrepreneurs who have achieved international recognition
Application Process
Complete Your Visa Application in 5 Key Steps: Documentation, Nominator, EOI Submission, Application, and Processing
Documentation
Nominator
Expression of Interest (EOI)
Application
You can lodge your visa application online through the Department of Home Affairs website.
Processing
Processing times vary but typically range from a few months to a year, depending on your specific circumstances and the complexity of your case.
National Innovation Visa
The National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) distinguishes itself from other skilled migration visas through its focus on attracting individuals with exceptional talent and international recognition across various fields, including arts, academia, research, and sports.
Unlike general skilled migration visas that often require specific employment history, employer sponsorship, or adherence to occupation lists, the Subclass 858 visa emphasizes individual achievements and contributions to Australia’s growth and international standing.
This visa offers a direct pathway to permanent residency without the necessity of employer sponsorship or a points-based assessment, making it particularly appealing to globally recognized professionals seeking to bring their expertise to Australia.
Other Skilled Migration Visa options
Skilled Independent Visa (Subclass 189)
Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190)
Global Talent Visa
Book a Migration Consultation
We have a ton of information on our site about various visa options and FAQs that answer most of our visitors’ questions, but if you’re still not sure where to start or you need a personalised step by step walkthrough, then schedule a call with one of our Registered Migration Agent.
Simply follow the link below and you'll be able to pick an agent for consultation.
Why Use Pathway to Aus?
Pathway to Aus has assisted thousands of student’s study or migrate to Australia. We are here to support you throughout your journey and make the transition as easy and smooth as possible. Our experienced team of Education and Migration agents are ready to work with you to help you achieve your education and migration goals.
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Registered Migration Agents
Ongoing support
Partnered with education institutes
Frequently Asked Questions
In case you don’t find an answer to your question, feel free to consult with one of our agents.
How long does it take to process the National Innovation Visa application?
Processing times for the National Innovation Visa can vary, but applications typically take several months to a year. Factors such as the applicant’s specific circumstances, the completeness of the application, and current processing volumes can impact the processing time.
What documents are required to support my National Innovation Visa application?
Supporting documents should include evidence of your outstanding achievements like awards, publications, or media coverage, proof of international recognition, reference letters from experts in your field, any additional documentation for health and character checks, and completed nomination form from a qualified nominator is required.
Can my family members be included in my National Innovation Visa application?
Absolutely! Eligible family members such as a spouse or partner and dependent children can be included in the National Innovation Visa application. Family members included in the application will also gain permanent residency if the visa is approved giving them the right to live, work, and study in Australia.
What is the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858), and who is it for?
The National Innovation Visa is a permanent visa for individuals with exceptional talent or internationally recognized achievements in fields such as the arts, sports, academia, research, or other specialised professions. It allows you to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely and provides a pathway to citizenship including their family members.
What are the main eligibility requirements for the National Innovation Visa?
To qualify for this visa, you must have an internationally recognized record of exceptional achievement in their field, a nomination from an Australian citizen, permanent resident, eligible New Zealand citizen, or an Australian organisation, and meet health and character requirements. While there’s no age limit, applicants over 55 need to demonstrate that they’ll bring significant benefits to Australia.
What documents do I need to apply for the National Innovation Visa Subclass 858?
1. Identity Verification
- Valid passport
- Birth certificate
- National identification card (if applicable)
- Recent passport-sized photographs
- Proof of name changes (if applicable)
2. Evidence of Outstanding Achievements
- Awards or honors in your field
- Published works, research papers, or articles
- Media coverage of your achievements
- Reference letters from experts or notable individuals in your industry
3. Proof of International Recognition
- Documentation of international awards or global media coverage
- Evidence of international collaborations
4. Health and Character Requirements
- Completed medical examinations and health clearances
- Police clearance certificates to prove good character
5. Nomination
A completed nomination form from an eligible Australian citizen, permanent resident, New Zealand citizen, or reputable Australian organization in your field
6. English Language Proficiency
English test results meeting the Department of Home Affairs’ standards
7. Additional Supporting Documents
- Proof of contributions to your field
- Copyrights, licenses, or evidence showcasing your potential to benefit Australia
GET IN TOUCH
In case of questions, feel free to reach out to one of our experienced Registered Migration Agents.
Contact details
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