National Innovation Visa (NIV) Subclass 858
This is a permanent, targeted visa program allows Australia to attract exceptional individuals with internationally recognized record of exceptional and outstanding achievement in their field to contribute to the Australian economy by creating jobs and driving productivity growth.
Target applicants includes:
Entrepreneurs – both established and emerging (cutting-edge ideas and startups in fields such as technology, science, and green / clean energy)
Innovative Investors – emphasis on quality investments (who have made innovative contributions or have significant achievements in other fields)
Global Researchers and Thought Leaders – recognized through publications, citations, or awards (key industries such as quantum computing, AI, robotics, cybersecurity, biotechnology, and advanced manufacturing)
Athletes and Creatives – who will raise Australia’s international standing in their field
Main Eligibility Criteria:
- being still prominent in the area
- being nominated by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, eligible New Zealand citizen or and Australian organization that has a national reputation concerning the area of talent
- having at least Functional English or pay secondary visa application charge
- No age limit (unless applicant who aged under 18 or over 55 years old must demonstrate exceptional benefit to Australia
- demonstrate to have no difficulty to establish yourself in Australia
This visa focuses on individual achievements rather than formal qualifications or extensive work experience. The application process is by Invitation-Only through an Expression of Interest (EOI). This ensures only the most exceptional and highly talented individuals are identified and invited.
Invitations are extended in the following priority order, with priority one being the highest:
| Priority one | Exceptional candidates from any sector who are global experts and recipients of international ‘top of field’ level awards. |
| Priority two | Candidates from any sector nominated on the approved Form 1000 by an expert Australian Commonwealth, State or Territory Government agency. |
| Priority three | Candidates with exceptional and outstanding achievements in a Tier One sector:
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| Priority four | Candidates with exceptional and outstanding achievements in a Tier Two sector:
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