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Australia’s Subclass 858 National Innovation Visa is the country’s flagship pathway for global talent, granting permanent residency to exceptional innovators, entrepreneurs, researchers, and business leaders.
Eligibility for Australia’s Subclass 858 visa is based on exceptional global achievement and a proven capacity to benefit the country. Key requirements are listed below.
Awards, leadership roles, patents, high-impact research, or business achievements
Recent activity, current media, ongoing projects, or high income
Clear evidence that you will benefit Australia. Think collaboration, business creation, or tech transfer.
Australian citizen, permanent resident, eligible NZ citizen,. Or Australian organization with a national reputation.
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and receive an invitation from the Department of Homeland Affairs.
Demonstrate functional English or pay a second instalment, pass medical examinations, and provide police clearances from other residing countries.
Costs & Fees for the Subclass 858 National Innovation Visa (2025)
Other Potential Costs & Fees
You may wish to consult with a migration professional or submit an assessment through Bluewater Immigration’s enquiry form.
Identify an eligible individual or well-established organisation willing to endorse your accomplishments.
Gather evidence such as awards, media articles, patents, letters of recommendation, employment contracts and business plans. Attach the completed nomination form.
The Department assesses EOIs according to sector priorities and the calibre of achievements. There is no fixed waiting period. Some applicants receive invitations within a few weeks, while others wait months.
Once invited, you must apply within 60 days through your ImmiAccount. Complete the application form, pay the initial visa fee and upload all required documents. Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of the process
Arrange appointments with approved clinics and provide biometrics at a collection centre.
The case officer may ask for additional documents or clarification. Timely responses ensure smooth processing.
When a decision is made, you’ll receive a notification through your ImmiAccount. Successful applicants are granted a permanent visa, and visa details are electronically recorded. If the application is refused, the notice will include reasons and information about review rights.
Eligibility for Australia’s Subclass 858 visa is based on exceptional global achievement and a proven capacity to benefit the country. Key requirements are listed below.
Certified copies of the bio‑data page of your passport, national identity card (if applicable) and birth certificate.
Documentation proving your international reputation. Contact Bluewater Immigration for more guidance.
Form 1000 or the latest equivalent, completed by your nominator. Attach the nominator’s curriculum vitae, proof of citizenship or company registration and a statement describing your achievements and contribution.
Evidence that your work aligns with one of the priority sectors if applicable.
Investors can provide details of capital, business plans and cash flow forecasts. Researchers should supply letters from universities or research institutes.
Test reports such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE Academic or Cambridge. If you hold a passport from the UK, USA, Canada, New Zealand or Ireland, you are usually considered to have functional English.
Police clearance certificates from each country you have lived in for 12 months or more during the past ten years. Health examinations from approved practitioners must confirm you meet Australian standards.
If including a spouse or partner, provide a marriage certificate or evidence of de facto relationship, as well as partner’s identity documents
| Visa | Key Requirements | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|
| National Innovation (858) | Internationally recognised record of achievement; nomination; invitation | Permanent residency on arrival; no investment requirement; high evidence threshold; high fees |
| Skilled Independent (189) | Points test based on age, English, qualifications, work experience; invitation from SkillSelect | No nomination needed; popular for skilled workers; competitive points threshold; long processing times |
| Skilled Nominated (190) | Points test; nomination by a state or territory; commitment to live in that state for at least two years | Additional points from nomination; access to state occupation lists; obligation to reside in nominating state |
| Employer Nomination (186) | Sponsored by Australian employer; at least three years’ skilled work experience; skills assessment | Direct entry pathway to permanent residency; tied to employer; labour market testing required |
| Business Innovation & Investment (188/888) | Significant business turnover or investment; state or territory nomination; business activity in Australia | Closed as of July 31, 2024 |
