National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)
WIDEN Migration Experts — helping exceptional talent build a future in Australia.
Overview
The National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) (NIV) is a permanent visa for individuals with internationally recognised, exceptional and outstanding achievement in their field. It replaced the former Global Talent visa as of December 2024. This visa is invitation-only: applicants must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and be invited by the Department of Home Affairs before applying.
Who can apply?
Applicants must be established or emerging leaders with high-calibre talent in one of the eligible areas: professions, academia/research, the arts, sport or innovation/inventive investment. You must have an internationally recognised record of exceptional achievement and be nominated by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, eligible New Zealand citizen, or an Australian organisation with national reputation in your field.
Nominator requirement
A valid nominator must complete Form 1000 and be someone or an organisation with national reputation in the same field of expertise as you.
Key Eligibility Details
- You must submit an Expression of Interest. EOIs remain valid for up to 2 years.
- If invited, you have **60 days** to lodge your visa application.
- You can apply from inside or outside Australia (provided you are not in immigration clearance).
- If you are under 18 or 55 and older, you must show you are of exceptional benefit to Australia.
- You must meet standard health, character, and identity requirements.
- Functional English is required, or where not met, there may be a second instalment of visa charge.
What you get with the NIV (Subclass 858)
- Permanently live, work and study in Australia.
- Access to Medicare and other services.
- Sponsor eligible family members.
- Travel to and from Australia (usually for 5 years) after grant.
- Pathway to Australian citizenship (if all standard requirements met).
Common documents required
- Passport bio-data page and identity documents.
- State/Territory nomination evidence or correspondence.
- Business ownership records (ASIC extracts, shareholder agreements).
- Audited financial statements, BAS, business tax returns and evidence of business turnover.
- Evidence of business activity and management (employment records, contracts, invoices, leases).
- Police certificates and medical examination reports (as requested).
Fees & processing
Visa application charges and processing times are set by the Department of Home Affairs and may change. Applicants should check the Department’s official pages and their ImmiAccount for the latest fees and processing information.
Application Process
- Expression of Interest (EOI) — Submit the EOI to Homes Affairs. It stays in the system for up to 2 years.
- Invitation to Apply — If your profile is selected, you’ll receive an invitation. You have 60 days to apply.
- Prepare your application — Collect your evidence of exceptional achievement, nominator Form 1000, English, health, character etc.
- Lodge the visa application — Once invited, apply via ImmiAccount with all documentation.
- Decision & grant — Processing times vary. Once approved, you gain permanent residency.
How Widen Migration Experts can help you with National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) ?
The NIV pathway is highly competitive and requires precise preparation. WIDEN Migration Experts are here to guide you through every step and strengthen your application:
- Free initial evaluation of your achievements and profile to assess whether you meet the NIV standards.
- Assistance identifying and securing a suitable nominator with national reputation in your field.
- Support preparing a compelling Expression of Interest (EOI) that highlights your international recognition and potential impact in Australia.
- Review and organisation of supporting evidence – awards, publications, patents, leadership roles, etc.
- Ensuring you meet all health, character, English, and identity requirements, and advising on any potential gaps.
- Full management of your visa application once invited, including document lodgement, liaison with Home Affairs, and follow-ups.
Contact WIDEN today for a free consultation to explore if the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) is the right pathway for you.