Other Visas

National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)

The National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) is Australia’s premier permanent residency pathway for individuals with an internationally recognised record of exceptional achievement. Introduced to replace the Global Talent Visa, the National Innovation Visa is designed to attract exceptional professionals, researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, creatives, and athletes who can make a significant contribution to Australia’s future prosperity.

Unlike traditional skilled migration programs, this visa focuses on recognising outstanding global talent individuals rather than relying on occupation lists or points-based selection. It is an invitation-only visa, allowing successful applicants and eligible family members to live, work and study in Australia permanently.

Why Choose the National Innovation Visa?

The National Innovation Visa offers one of Australia’s most prestigious migration pathways.

Successful applicants can enjoy:

Permanent residency from the day the visa is granted
Live, work and study anywhere in Australia
Access to Medicare( Australia’s public health care scheme)
Sponsor eligible family members
Travel freely in and out of Australia
No points test
No employer sponsorship required

Who Can Apply?

The National Innovation Visa is intended for individuals with internationally recognised achievements who can contribute to Australia’s economic growth, research capability and innovation ecosystem. Continue to be active in demonstrating recent exceptional achievements.

Eligible applicants may include:

Global researchers
Entrepreneurs and startup founders
Innovative investors
Professionals recognized internationally in their industry
Athletes competing at elite international levels
Artists and creatives with international recognition
Leaders in emerging technologies
Experts in health, medical research and biotechnology
Professionals in renewable energy and critical technologies

Applicants must demonstrate they are recognised internationally as being at the top of their field preferable in the priority sectors.

Priority Sectors

The Australian Government prioritises individuals whose expertise supports Australia’s future industries and national interests.

These commonly include:

Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Cyber Security
Quantum Technologies
Health and Medical Technologies
Renewable Energy
AgTech
Defence and Space
Advanced Manufacturing
Financial Technology (FinTech)
Digital Technologies

Meeting a priority sector alone does not guarantee an invitation, but it can strengthen an Expression of Interest (EOI).

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the National Innovation Visa, applicants generally must:

Have an internationally recognised record of exceptional achievement.
Demonstrate they will be an asset and exceptional benefit to Australia.
Receive an invitation from the Department of Home Affairs before applying.
Have a nominator with a national reputation in the same field.
Demonstrate functional English language knowledge
Meet health and character requirements.

Your nominator may be :

An Australian citizen
An Australian permanent resident
An eligible New Zealand citizen
An Australian organization

The nomination must be submitted using Form 1000 when lodging the visa application.

National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) Application Charges

The National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) requires applicants to pay a government Visa Application Charge (VAC) when lodging their application. The amount payable depends on the number of applicants included in the application and whether additional charges apply for secondary applicants.

The visa application charge is reviewed periodically by the Australian Government and may change without prior notice. Applicants should always confirm the current fees before lodging their application.

In addition to the government application charge, you should also budget for other potential expenses, including:

Medical examinations
Police clearance certificates
Document translations (if required)
Skills assessments (if applicable)
Professional migration advice
Biometrics (where requested)

Understanding the full cost of your application can help you prepare financially and avoid unexpected expenses during the visa process.

English Language Requirement for the National Innovation Visa

Unlike many points-tested skilled migration visas, the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) does not require applicants to achieve a specific English test score to be eligible for the visa.

However, applicants aged 18 years or older who do not demonstrate Functional English at the time of visa grant may be required to pay an additional Second Visa Application Charge (SVAC).

Functional English can generally be demonstrated through:

A recognised English language test (such as IELTS, PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, Cambridge C1 Advanced or OET) meeting the required standard.
Holding a valid passport from countries recognised as English-speaking, such as the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, New Zealand or the Republic of Ireland.
Other evidence accepted by the Department of Home Affairs.

Meeting the Functional English requirement before your visa is granted may help you avoid paying the additional government charge.

Why Choose Red Earth Education & Migration?

Applying for the National Innovation Visa requires much more than completing application forms. Success depends on presenting compelling evidence of international recognition, future contribution to Australia, and a well-prepared nomination.

Our experienced MARA Registered Migration Agents can help you:

Assess your eligibility
Review your international achievements against visa criteria
Develop a strong application strategy
Prepare your Expression of Interest
Coordinate your nomination documentation
Manage the complete visa application process
Communicate with the Department throughout the application

Our personalised approach ensures your achievements are presented professionally and in line with current migration requirements.

Distinguished National Innovation FAQ

Is the National Innovation Visa a permanent visa?

Yes. The National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) is a permanent residency visa that allows successful applicants and eligible family members to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia indefinitely. Visa holders may also access Medicare, sponsor eligible relatives, travel freely, and, if eligible, apply for Australian citizenship in the future.

Has the Global Talent Visa been replaced?

Yes. The National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) replaced the Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858) on 6 December 2024. The new program continues to attract exceptionally talented individuals but now places greater emphasis on innovation, international achievements, and contributions that align with Australia’s strategic priorities and economic growth.

Do I need employer sponsorship for the National Innovation Visa?

No. The National Innovation Visa does not require employer sponsorship. Instead, applicants must receive an invitation from the Department of Home Affairs before applying and be nominated by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, eligible New Zealand citizen, or an Australian organisation with a recognised national reputation in the applicant’s field.

Is there an age limit for the National Innovation Visa?

There is generally no strict age limit for the National Innovation Visa. However, applicants under 18 or over 55 years of age may need to demonstrate that their achievements and future contribution would provide exceptional benefit to Australia, helping satisfy the visa’s eligibility requirements despite their age.

Can I include my family members in my application?

Yes. Eligible family members, including your spouse or de facto partner and dependent children, can usually be included in your National Innovation Visa application. If the visa is granted, they will also receive Australian permanent residency and enjoy many of the same rights and benefits as the primary applicant.

What is the Visa Application Charge (VAC) for the National Innovation Visa?

The Visa Application Charge (VAC) is the government fee payable when lodging your National Innovation Visa application. The amount varies depending on the number of applicants included and whether additional charges apply. As government fees are reviewed periodically, applicants should always check the latest charges before submitting their application.

Do I need to prove my English ability for the National Innovation Visa?

The National Innovation Visa does not require applicants to meet a minimum English language score for eligibility. However, applicants who cannot demonstrate Functional English may be required to pay a Second Visa Application Charge (SVAC) before the visa can be granted. Providing acceptable evidence of Functional English may help avoid this additional cost.