Australia’s new National Innovation Visa opens a permanent residency route for world-class professionals in research, sports, arts, and entrepreneurship. With New South Wales and South Australia leading state nominations, discover who qualifies and how to apply.
Australia is turning its focus toward the world’s brightest minds, with the launch of the National Innovation Visa, a permanent residency pathway designed for individuals with internationally recognised, world-class achievements.
This invitation-only visa targets elite talent in research, entrepreneurship, sports, and the arts, offering a direct route to live, innovate and work in Australia.
Both New South Wales (NSW) and South Australia (SA) have unveiled their nomination frameworks, giving prospective applicants insight into what each state is prioritising.
What Is the National Innovation Visa?
The National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) is a newly introduced visa pathway Australian immigration program aimed at attracting exceptionally talented individuals whose contributions are recognised globally. It replaces the previous Global Talent Visa under a new framework focused on state-based nomination and strategic sector development.
Key Features:
- Stay Permanently in Australia
- Work and Study without restriction
- Access to Medicare, Australia’s public healthcare system
- Sponsor family members for migration
- Travel freely in and out of Australia for five years
- Opportunity to apply for Australian citizenship (if eligible)
⚠️ Note: Newly arrived residents may need to wait before accessing some government services and welfare benefits.
Visa Cost and Processing Times
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Visa Fee | From AUD 4,840 |
| Processing Time | Within 60 days of the invitation |
| Application Deadline | Within 60 days of invitation |
Who Can Apply?
This visa is not open to general applications. You must first receive an invitation based on a successful nomination by a recognised individual or organisation.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Be invited to apply after submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Be either in or outside Australia (but not in immigration clearance) at the time of application and grant
- Demonstrate an internationally recognised record of exceptional achievement in:
- A profession
- Academia and research
- Sports
- The arts
- Be nominated by an individual or organisation with a national reputation in your area of talent. Eligible nominators include:
- Australian citizens or permanent residents
- Eligible New Zealand citizens
- Australian organisations
NSW Nomination Pathways: Innovation-Driven and Sector-Specific
New South Wales (NSW) offers five clear pathways under the National Innovation Visa:
1. Academic and Researcher
For those conducting high-impact research that aligns with state priorities. Candidates must show a history of published work and collaborations with industry or government.
2. Entrepreneur
Ideal for founders of innovation-driven ventures. NSW seeks individuals with a proven track record in scaling startups or commercialising disruptive technologies.
3. Innovative Investor
For investors who have made significant financial contributions and helped grow Australian businesses, particularly in high-growth sectors like biotech, AI, and renewable energy.
4. Sports Professional
Targeted at elite athletes, coaches, and sports scientists with exceptional achievements on a national or international stage.
5. Creative
Designed for artists and creatives with national or international acclaim across fields such as film, music, design, visual arts, and performance.
South Australia Nomination Pathways: Research, Impact, and Creativity
South Australia (SA) has also outlined five nomination categories:
1. Global Researchers and Thought Leaders
For individuals with an extensive portfolio of peer-reviewed publications, patents, or global keynote appearances. Focus is on science, technology, and medical research.
2. Entrepreneurs
Suited for applicants with the capability to launch, scale, or commercialise new products or services that align with SA’s innovation agenda.
3. Innovative Investors
For professionals who have backed or scaled startups, particularly in sectors such as agritech, cleantech, space, and advanced manufacturing.
4. Creative Talent
Targets globally recognised creative professionals contributing to film, visual arts, digital design, gaming, and performing arts.
5. Other Globally Talented Individuals
A flexible category for exceptional applicants whose skills and impact don’t neatly fit into standard categories but are too significant to overlook.
How to Apply for the National Innovation Visa: Step-by-Step Guide
Getting the National Innovation Visa isn’t just about potential—it’s about proven global excellence. Here’s how to start your journey toward permanent residency in Australia:
✅ Step 1: Prepare Your Profile
Make sure you meet the core eligibility criteria:
- You have internationally recognised achievements in research, arts, sports, entrepreneurship, or a profession.
- You can demonstrate a track record of impact, such as awards, patents, major publications, international media recognition, or successful ventures.
✅ Step 2: Secure a Nominator
You must have a nominator with a national reputation in your field. This could be:
- An Australian citizen or permanent resident
- An eligible New Zealand citizen
- An Australian organisation with established credibility in your area of expertise
✅ Step 3: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Lodge an EOI through the Department of Home Affairs portal. In this submission, include:
- A compelling summary of your global achievements
- Evidence of how your work benefits or aligns with Australia’s national or state-level priorities
- Details about your future plans and contributions in Australia
✅ Step 4: Wait for a Nomination and Invitation
If your EOI impresses a participating state or territory (such as NSW or South Australia), and they consider your profile aligned with their innovation agenda:
- You’ll receive a formal nomination from that state
- Then, the Department of Home Affairs may issue an invitation to apply for the visa
⏳ Important: You’ll need to lodge your visa application *within 60 days of receiving the invitation.
✅ Step 5: Apply for the Visa
Once invited:
- Submit your visa application online
- Include all supporting documents, such as references, portfolios, awards, or investment records
- Pay the visa fee (starting from AUD 4,840)
- Ensure you’re not in immigration clearance at the time of application and visa decision
Pro Tip
Focus on real-world impact and international recognition, not just future potential. States like NSW and South Australia prioritise candidates who have already made significant contributions and are ready to drive innovation, creativity, or excellence in Australia.
Why Consider the National Innovation Visa?
This visa provides an exclusive opportunity to permanently settle in one of the world’s most liveable countries, with top-tier healthcare, education, and quality of life.
It’s especially ideal for:
- Academics looking to continue groundbreaking research
- Entrepreneurs building the next wave of global ventures
- Creatives shaping global culture
- Investors contributing to transformative industries
- Athletes and coaches aiming to elevate their sport on a global stage
What’s Next?
The visa program is expected to expand as other Australian states and territories begin announcing their own nomination frameworks. If you’re a globally recognised individual ready to contribute to Australia’s future innovation, now is the time to start preparing your Expression of Interest.
We will continue to monitor updates and publish nomination criteria from other regions as they become available
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