Australia’s National Innovation Visa (NIV) (Subclass 858): A Permanent Pathway for Exceptional Talent

The National Innovation Visa (NIV) (Subclass 858) is a prestigious permanent visa designed for exceptional talent across various fields, and is not limited by age. If you are a global researcher, entrepreneur or innovative investor, this visa could be your opportunity to establish yourself in Australia and contribute to the nation’s economic and technological advancement.

Who Is This Visa For?

The NIV is intended for individuals with internationally recognised records of exceptional and outstanding achievements. Candidates who can make significant contributions to Australia’s prosperity are encouraged to apply. This visa is particularly suited to:

Global researchers making ground-breaking contributions in their field.
Entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas and a track record of success.
Innovative investors who support high-growth industries.
Athletes and creatives with demonstrated excellence on an international scale.

Are You a Suitable Candidate?

To assess your eligibility, you need to demonstrate exceptional and outstanding achievements in your field. Indicators include:

International ‘top-of-field’ level awards (e.g., Nobel Prize, Fields Medal).
National research grants demonstrating significant academic impact.
A PhD with high-level h-index for your stage of career or industry-changing research.
Government recognition through nomination by a Commonwealth, State, or Territory agency.
Recent keynote appearance at a high-profile international conference.
Groundbreaking investment initiatives with a proven history of backing successful innovative projects.
Prospective entrepreneurial endeavors that aim to bring a product or service to market in Australia.
Established intellectual property.

If you are uncertain whether your achievements meet these criteria, consulting us can help clarify your options and build a strong application.

*if you are a global expert in a priority sector, Australia wants you*

Priority Processing Categories

The Department of Home Affairs assesses Expressions of Interest (EOIs) based on the significance of your achievements. Applications are processed in the following priority order:

Priority One: Top Global Experts

Exceptional candidates from any sector who are global experts and recipients of top-tier international awards will receive the highest priority.

Priority Two: Candidates Nominated by Government Agencies

If you are nominated by an expert Australian Commonwealth, State, or Territory Government agency, your application receives strong consideration. This nomination reflects the government’s recognition of your potential contribution to Australia.

If you believe you have outstanding achievements in one of the designated sectors, securing a government nomination can increase your chances of receiving an invitation to apply.

What Are Expert Government Nominators?

Government nominations can come from agencies that specialise in specific sectors critical to Australia’s future. Examples of potential nominating agencies include:

Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade) – For entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders driving economic growth.
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) – For global researchers contributing to scientific and technological advancements.
State and Territory Government Departments of Innovation, Industry, or Economic Development – For candidates whose expertise aligns with regional or sector-specific economic priorities.
Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) – For experts in defence and space technology.
Health and Medical Research Agencies – For researchers and professionals in the health industry.

These agencies assess whether a candidate’s skills align with national or regional priorities before endorsing their application.

Priority Three: Exceptional Achievements in “Tier One” Sectors

Candidates demonstrating exceptional and outstanding achievements in the following high-impact industries will be prioritised:

Critical Technologies (AI, cybersecurity, quantum computing, etc.)
Health Industries (biotech, pharmaceuticals, medical research)
Renewables and Low Emission Technologies (clean energy, carbon reduction solutions)

Priority Four: Exceptional Achievements in “Tier Two” Sectors

Candidates excelling in the following areas may also qualify:

Agri-food and AgTech (agricultural innovation, food security solutions)
Defence Capabilities and Space (advanced military tech, space research)
Education (transformative learning technologies and methodologies)
Financial Services and FinTech (cutting-edge financial technologies)
Infrastructure and Transport (urban planning, smart transportation solutions)
Resources (mining, sustainable resource management)

The Application Process

Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Your EOI should detail your exceptional achievements and how they align with Australia’s priority sectors.
Receive an Invitation: If selected, you will receive an invitation to apply for the NIV.
Lodge Your Visa Application: Submitting strong supporting evidence is critical to demonstrating your eligibility.
Visa Grant and Permanent Residency: If successful, you will be granted permanent residency, allowing you to live and work in Australia indefinitely.

If you believe you may qualify for this visa, contact us today for a consultation. We will evaluate your credentials and help you take the next step towards securing a future in Australia.