A new invitation-only permanent visa program is now open for exceptionally talented migrants! The National Innovation visa (NIV) aims to attract global experts with a recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement. The Australian government hopes that such individuals can drive growth in sectors of national importance. In this blog, we unpack the new National Innovation visa, the key changes that have been introduced, and the application process.
On December 7, 2024, the Australian government introduced the new National Innovation visa. This visa replaced the Global Talent visa, but remains a subclass 858 visa.
The National Innovation visa is an exclusive program for global experts with world-leading skills, extensive achievements, and international recognition in key areas. The new visa is designed to attract highly-skilled individuals from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that Australia continues to foster innovation, growth, and development across various sectors. It also offers a direct pathway to permanent residency.
The National Innovation visa is not limited to specific occupations, but does target four main categories of exceptional talent:
The National Innovation Visa is based on 4 Tiers structure where an applicant will be eligible if they can meet the criteria of any of tiers:
All applications are based on an Expression of application which if successful will result in the applicant receiving an invitation to lodge an 858 visa, These are also separated in order of priority as follows:
Priority 1 – Global experts with prestigious international awards,
Priority 2 – Candidates nominated by Australian Commonwealth, State or Territory Government agencies, Applicants can include:
Athletes and creatives who can enhance Australia’s global reputation
History of innovative investment activities with a proven record of supporting successful ventures.
Entrepreneurial efforts that contribute to the commercialisation of products or services in Australia
Ownership of recognized intellectual property, such as holding relevant international patents.
Priority 3 – Individuals with significant achievements in Tier 1 sectors. These include:
Priority 4 – Individuals with distinguished accomplishments in Tier 2 sectors. These include:
Agri-food and AgTech, Defence Capabilities and Space, Education, Financial Services and Fintech, Infrastructure and Transport, as well as Resources
With a National Innovation visa, you can:
Visa applicants cannot directly apply for a National Innovation visa. Applications may be accepted through an invitation-only process after an Expression of Interest (EOI) has been submitted.
There are no age or occupation restrictions to apply for the National Innovation visa. However, if you are under 18 years old or 55 years or older when you apply, you must prove you are an exceptional benefit to the Australian community. The exceptional benefit should be ongoing, sustained, and realised shortly after migration. This may include:
Here are the steps to obtaining a National Innovation visa:
Once an EOI has been submitted, the Department of Home Affairs will consider applications according to the following priority order:
The introduction of the National Innovation visa is part of a broader migration strategy to attract exceptionally talented individuals and foster innovation, enhance global competitiveness, and raise Australia’s international standing. If you would like to learn more about the National Innovation visa, we are here to help. Contact us at AustraliaMigrate today for expert immigration advice and assistance with your visa application.
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