The recently introduced National Innovation Visa in Australia paves a way for permanent residency for exceptional professionals in fields such as research, sports, the arts, and entrepreneurship. With New South Wales and South Australia taking the lead in state nominations, find out who is eligible and how to proceed with the application.
Australia is focusing on attracting the world’s most talented individuals with the new National Innovation Visa, providing a permanent residency option for those who have achieved globally recognised excellence.
This visa, which is offered by invitation only, aims to attract outstanding individuals in research, entrepreneurship, sports, and the arts, creating a pathway to live, innovate, and work in Australia.
States such as New South Wales (NSW) and South Australia (SA) have initiated their nomination protocols, allowing potential applicants to understand the current priorities set by each state.
What Is the National Innovation Visa?
The National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) is an upcoming visa pathway within the Australian immigration system intended to draw in individuals of exceptional talent recognized worldwide. This new visa replaces the former Global Talent Visa under a revamped system concentrating on state nominations and strategic sector advancements.
Key Features:
- Permanent Residency in Australia
- Unrestricted Work and Study
- Eligibility for Medicare, Australia’s public health system
- Sponsor family members for migration
- Flexible travel in and out of Australia for five years
- Chance to apply for Australian citizenship (if qualified)
⚠️ Important: New residents may experience waiting periods before they can access certain government services and welfare programs.
Visa Fees and Processing Times
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Visa Fee | Starting at AUD 4,840 |
| Processing Time | Within 60 days post-invitation |
| Application Deadline | Within 60 days after receiving the invitation |
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
This visa does not allow for general applications. A prior invitation based on a successful nomination from a recognized individual or organization is required.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be invited to apply after lodging an Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Must be inside or outside Australia (not within immigration clearance) at the time of application and grant
- Need to show an internationally recognized history of exceptional accomplishments in:
- A profession
- Academia and research
- Sports
- The arts
- Should be nominated by an individual or organization with a national reputation related to your area of expertise. Acceptable nominators include:
- Australian citizens or permanent residents
- Eligible New Zealand citizens
- Recognized Australian organizations
NSW Nomination Pathways: Focused on Innovation and Specific Sectors
New South Wales (NSW) has outlined five distinct pathways available under the National Innovation Visa:
1. Academic and Researcher
Intended for those involved in high-level research aligned with state objectives. Applicants must present a history of published materials and a track record of collaborating with industry or governmental bodies.
2. Entrepreneur
Perfect for the founders of innovation-oriented enterprises. NSW is looking for individuals with a demonstrable history in expanding startups or commercializing pioneering technologies.
3. Innovative Investor
Designed for investors who have made substantial financial investments and supported the growth of Australian firms, especially in expansive sectors like biotech, AI, and renewable energy.
4. Sports Professional
Directed towards elite athletes, trainers, and sports scientists who have achieved remarkable success on a national or international level.
5. Creative
Aimed at artists and creative professionals with national or international recognition across various domains like film, music, design, visual arts, and performance.
South Australia Nomination Pathways: Focus on Research, Impact, and Creativity
South Australia (SA) has similarly defined five categories for nomination:
1. Global Researchers and Thought Leaders
For those with a rich portfolio of peer-reviewed publications, patents, or global keynote addresses. Emphasis on science, technology, and medical research.
2. Entrepreneurs
Well-suited for candidates capable of initiating, scaling, or commercializing new offerings that correspond with SA’s innovation strategy.
3. Innovative Investors
Targeted at professionals who have supported the growth or scaling of startups, particularly in fields like agritech, cleantech, space, and advanced manufacturing.
4. Creative Talent
Focuses on globally acclaimed creative professionals making contributions to film, visual arts, digital design, gaming, and performing arts.
5. Other Remarkable Global Talents
A versatile category for extraordinary candidates whose skills and contributions don’t fit standard classifications but are too significant to disregard.
How to Apply for the National Innovation Visa: Step-by-Step Instructions
Obtaining the National Innovation Visa requires more than just potential—it hinges on demonstrated global excellence. Here’s how to embark on your journey toward permanent residency in Australia:
✅ Step 1: Create Your Profile
Ensure that you meet the fundamental eligibility requirements:
- You possess internationally acknowledged accomplishments in research, arts, sports, entrepreneurship, or a professional field.
- You can provide proof of a notable history of impact, such as accolades, patents, major publications, international press coverage, or successful business ventures.
✅ Step 2: Obtain a Nominator
It’s essential to have a nominator with a national reputation in your domain. This could be:
- An Australian citizen or permanent resident
- An eligible New Zealand citizen
- An Australian organization with a well-established reputation in your field of expertise
✅ Step 3: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
File an EOI on the Department of Home Affairs portal. In your submission, include:
- A persuasive overview of your worldwide achievements
- Proof of how your work supports or aligns with Australia’s national or state priorities
- Information about your future aspirations and contributions in Australia
✅ Step 4: Await a Nomination and Invitation
If your EOI captivates a participating state or territory (like NSW or South Australia), and they view your profile favorably regarding their innovation plan:
- You will receive a formal nomination from that state
- Subsequently, the Department of Home Affairs may send an invitation to apply for the visa
⏳ Important: You must submit your visa application *within 60 days of receiving the invitation.
✅ Step 5: Submit Your Visa Application
Once you receive the invitation:
- File your visa application online
- Attach all necessary documents, including references, portfolios, accolades, or investment documentation
- Complete the visa fee payment (beginning at AUD 4,840)
- Confirm you are not in immigration clearance when you apply and during the visa decision
Pro Tip
Concentrate on demonstrating real-world impact and international acknowledgment, rather than just potential for the future. States like NSW and South Australia give preference to candidates who have already made notable contributions and are poised to advance innovation, creativity, or excellence in Australia.
Why Pursue the National Innovation Visa?
This visa offers an exceptional chance to permanently reside in one of the most liveable nations globally, featuring high-quality healthcare, education, and living standards.
It is especially suitable for:
- Academics eager to continue groundbreaking research
- Entrepreneurs launching the next generation of international enterprises
- Creatives influencing global culture
- Investors driving transformational industries
- Athletes and coaches aiming to elevate their sports on the world stage
What’s the Way Forward?
The visa initiative is anticipated to grow as additional Australian states and territories start to roll out their own nomination frameworks. If you are a globally acknowledged figure ready to contribute to Australia’s innovative landscape, now is the perfect time to prepare your Expression of Interest.
We will keep track of developments and share nomination standards from other regions as they become available.
Fonte: Travelo Biz
