Permanent visa
Subclass 858 is a permanent Australian visa when granted.
Global Talent - Skilled Visas
National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)
A permanent Australian visa pathway for exceptionally talented migrants with high-calibre skills and achievements who may make a significant contribution to Australia's future prosperity.
Exceptional Talent & Innovation
A permanent visa for high-calibre global talent
The National Innovation visa (subclass 858) is a permanent visa designed for exceptionally talented migrants who can make a significant contribution to Australia's economy, innovation and future prosperity.
The program is invitation-only. A person must first submit an Expression of Interest showing their achievements and, if invited by the Department of Home Affairs, may then apply for the visa.
Submitting an Expression of Interest does not guarantee an
invitation. An invitation also does not guarantee visa
approval. The visa application is assessed separately on
its merits and supporting evidence.
Expression of Interest
Applicants must first submit an EOI for consideration.
Invitation required
The Department must invite the person before a visa application can be lodged.
National Innovation
The pathway is intended for exceptional and outstanding talent.
Global Talent - Skilled Visas
National Innovation visa (subclass 858)
Review the current National Innovation visa pathway and use the official Department of Home Affairs link for detailed eligibility and application information.
Subclass 858
National Innovation Visa
Permanent residence for exceptionally talented migrants invited to apply by the Australian Government.
Current Permanent Visa
The National Innovation visa is intended for established and emerging leaders with high-calibre talent and skills whose achievements may benefit Australia's future prosperity.
- Permanent visa when granted
- Expression of Interest required before invitation
- Invitation from the Department required before applying
- Exceptional and outstanding achievements must be demonstrated
- Evidence should support the claimed achievements and contribution
- Visa eligibility is assessed separately after invitation
Who May Be Considered
High-calibre talent across different fields
Home Affairs identifies several broad groups of exceptional talent that may be considered under the National Innovation visa program.
Global Researchers
Researchers with significant achievements, recognition and potential to contribute to Australia.
Entrepreneurs
Established or emerging entrepreneurial leaders with significant innovation and growth potential.
Innovative Investors
Investors with high-calibre achievements and potential to support innovation and economic development.
Athletes & Creatives
Exceptional individuals with recognised achievements in sport, creative industries or related fields.
Expression of Interest
How the National Innovation visa process works
The process begins with an Expression of Interest rather than a visa application.
1
Review achievements
Assess the applicant's high-calibre achievements, recognition and potential contribution to Australia.
2
Submit an EOI
Prepare and submit the National Innovation visa Expression of Interest with supporting information.
3
Invitation consideration
The Department considers submitted EOIs and may issue an invitation according to program priorities.
4
Visa application
If invited, lodge the subclass 858 visa application and supporting evidence within the invitation period.
Preparing an EOI
Information and evidence that may be relevant
The Department requires specific information for an EOI, while additional evidence may be relevant to demonstrating achievements and the applicant's profile.
Core EOI documents
Home Affairs currently identifies the following documents as part of the EOI submission process.
- Passport Bio-Page
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- Evidence of highest qualification
- English translations where documents are not in English
- Government-agency supporting material where applicable
Achievement evidence
Depending on the applicant's field and circumstances, evidence may be needed to explain and substantiate the achievements claimed in the EOI.
- Professional recognition and awards
- Research, publication or innovation evidence
- Leadership and industry achievements
- Entrepreneurial or investment achievements
- Evidence supporting the applicant's claimed contribution
Frequently Asked Questions
National Innovation visa questions
Is the National Innovation visa a permanent visa?
Yes. The National Innovation visa (subclass 858) is listed by Home Affairs as a permanent visa.
Can I apply for subclass 858 without an invitation?
No. The Department must invite you before you can lodge a National Innovation visa application.
Is an Expression of Interest the visa application?
No. An EOI expresses interest in applying for the visa. It is not the visa application itself.
Does submitting an EOI guarantee an invitation?
No. The Department considers EOIs according to the applicant's achievements and National Innovation visa program priorities.
Does an invitation guarantee visa approval?
No. An invitation is not a pre-assessment of visa eligibility. The visa application is assessed on its merits and supporting evidence.
How long do I have to apply if invited?
Home Affairs currently states that an invited applicant has 60 days from the date of invitation to lodge the visa application.
Important National Innovation visa information
National Innovation visa priorities, invitation arrangements, eligibility requirements and evidence expectations can change. This page provides general information only and does not guarantee an invitation or visa outcome. Current Department of Home Affairs information and the applicant's individual circumstances should be reviewed before an Expression of Interest or visa application is submitted.
Considering the National Innovation visa?
Arrange a consultation to discuss your achievements, professional profile, supporting evidence and whether a National Innovation visa Expression of Interest may deserve further assessment.