What Is the National Innovation Visa
The National Innovation Visa is an Australian permanent residence pathway for individuals who have established a recognised record of achievement and are able to make a meaningful contribution to Australia.
This visa replaced the previous Global Talent visa while retaining the Subclass 858 classification. Applications are invitation based and require the submission of an Expression of Interest before an invitation can be issued.
The program is designed to attract individuals whose work and achievements are recognised internationally and whose expertise aligns with Australia’s long-term national priorities.
National Innovation Visa at a Glance
The program is designed for people whose achievements are recognised internationally and who are active contributors in their field. It supports talent across areas such as research, academia, emerging technologies, business innovation, creative industries, and elite sports.
- Permanent residence visa under Subclass 858
- Invitation only program
- Requires an Expression of Interest
- Requires nomination through Form 1000
- Focuses on internationally recognised achievement
- Prioritised by sector and contribution level
Expressions of Interest remain valid for two years. The Department issues invitations based on priority categories, with the highest ranked applicants identified and invited first.
Who the Subclass 858 Visa Targets
The National Innovation Visa targets individuals who are actively contributing at a high level within their field and whose work demonstrates recognition beyond their home country.
- Researchers and thought leaders with significant publications, recognition, or international achievements
- Entrepreneurs with experience linked to State or Territory initiatives
- Investors focused on innovative and high impact commercial activities
- Athletes and creatives who have represented Australia or achieved recognition beyond their home country
Applicants are expected to demonstrate achievement that clearly stands out within their profession or discipline.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the National Innovation Visa, applicants must demonstrate:
- An internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement in a profession, sport, the arts, or academia and research
- Ongoing prominence and active participation in their field
- A clear ability to contribute to Australia
- No difficulty in obtaining employment or becoming established in Australia
- A completed Form 1000 from an eligible nominator with a national reputation
- Functional English or willingness to pay the second Visa Application Charge
Applicants who are under 18 or aged 55 and older must also demonstrate that their contribution will provide exceptional benefit to Australia.
Invitation Priority Categories
Invitations for the National Innovation Visa are issued based on four priority levels.
Priority one
Exceptional candidates who are global experts or recipients of top of field international awards.
Priority two
Candidates nominated by an Australian Commonwealth, State, or Territory Government agency using an approved Form 1000.
Priority three
Candidates with exceptional and outstanding achievements in a Tier One sector, including:
- Critical technologies
- Health industries
- Renewables and low emission technologies
Priority four
Candidates with exceptional and outstanding achievements in a Tier Two sector, including:
- Agri food and AgTech
- Defence capabilities and space
- Education
- Financial services and FinTech
- Infrastructure and transport
- Resources
Priority one and two candidates are invited as soon as they are identified. Priority three and four candidates are invited on a monthly basis.
Tier One and Tier Two Sectors Explained
The program recognises two groups of priority sectors.
Tier One
- Critical Technologies
- Health Industries
- Renewables and low emission technologies
Tier Two
- Agri food and AgTech
- Defence Capabilities and Space
- Education
- Financial Services and FinTech
- Infrastructure and Transport
- Resources
Applicants with strong achievements in these areas have higher invitation opportunities.
Form 1000 Nomination Requirement
Applicants must provide a completed Form 1000 from an eligible nominator.
The nominator can be:
- an Australian citizen
- an Australian permanent resident
- an eligible New Zealand citizen
- an Australian organisation with a national reputation in the same field.
The nominator must confirm the applicant’s achievements and explain why the applicant is suitable for the National Innovation Visa.
If clarification is required, the Department may request additional information from the applicant or the nominator.
International Recognition
Applicants must show recognition that extends beyond their home country. The field must be practiced internationally, and achievements must align with global standards.
Examples of acceptable indicators include:
- Senior roles in internationally recognised organisations
- Leadership of major international projects
- Academic research with global applications or significant citations
- Awards or achievements recognised at an international level
- Creative or sporting accomplishments that are recognised worldwide
The Department considers qualifications, research standing, professional roles, collaborations, and recognition from respected institutions.
What Is Considered Exceptional and Outstanding Achievement
Achievement is considered exceptional and outstanding when it clearly places an individual above the usual standard in their field.
Evidence may include:
Academia and research
- Reports, books, or refereed journal articles
- Prestigious awards
- High citation counts
- Honours or academic titles
- Grants, fellowships, or appointments
- Patents with strong prospects of application
- Statements from institutions or supervisors
Professions
- National or international industry awards
- Statements from employers and industry peers
- Senior professional titles
- Media recognition
Sport
- International rankings
- Membership of national teams
- Results in major tournaments
- Statements from sporting bodies
Arts
- Published works
- Sales, exhibitions, or commissions
- Awards in creative industries
- Recognition by peers
- Media features
A single major achievement may be accepted where it is highly innovative and clearly demonstrates distinction.
Age and English Requirements
There is no standard age limit.
Applicants younger than 18 or aged 55 and older must demonstrate exceptional benefit to Australia. This contribution must be ongoing, sustained, and realised soon after arrival. It may include economic contributions, job creation, research development, or raising Australia’s global standard in a particular field.
Applicants must show functional English or pay the second Visa Application Charge.
National Innovation Visa Invitation Process
The National Innovation Visa is invitation based.
Expressions of Interest remain valid for two years. Invitations are issued according to priority levels. Priority one and two candidates are identified and invited promptly. Priority three and four candidates receive monthly invitations.
The Department may request additional documents if further verification of achievements or recognition is required.
How Ugrant Migration Assists
Guidance is provided across the full National Innovation Visa process, including:
- Eligibility assessment
- Positioning and Strategy
- Document preparation
- Evidence organisation
- Form 1000 guidance
- State Nomination Registration of Interest
- Expression of Interest submission
- Support throughout the application process
Our goal is to help you present your strongest case to meet the high standards of the National Innovation Visa.