Australia Replaced Global Talent Visa (subclass 858) With National Innovation Visa

The Australian Government recently announced that the current Global Talent visa (subclass 858) will be replaced by a new visa called the National Innovation visa. From December 6, 2024, this change became effective. The new visa is meant to bring in highly skilled people who can help important industries grow and add to Australia’s growth.

Important things about the National Innovation Visa

1. Subclass 858 Continuation: The Global Talent visa will be changed, but the new visa will still be classified as a Subclass 858 visa.

2. Focus on Diverse Talent: The program will accept people with unique skills and backgrounds, and it will be aimed at a wide range of professionals, such as

• Global Researchers and Thought Leaders: These are experts who have made important advances in their fields, such as through high-impact publications in prestigious journals, a lot of citations, or winning top industry awards.
• Entrepreneurs: People who want to start or grow a business will be urged to do so by looking at successful programs run by states and territories.
• Innovative Investors: The visa will put more weight on the quality of investments than on meeting simple cash requirements. This will encourage people to make real contributions to the economy.
• Athenians and Artists: People who represent Australia on foreign stages, whether in the arts or sports, will also be able to apply.
• Australia is committed to promoting innovation and attracting top talent to help the country’s goals, as shown by this effort.

Comparison Between National Innovation Visa (NIV) and the Skills in Demand (SID)

Only people who have been invited will be able to apply for the National Innovation Visa (NIV). The Expression of Interest (EOI) process is meant to be very similar to those used for other invitation-based visas. Here’s a full look at how the National Innovation Visa (NIV) and the Skills in Demand (SID) Visa compare in the Specialist Skills stream:

Feature	Skills in Demand (SID) Visa (Subclass 482 – Specialist Skills Stream)	National Innovation Visa (NIV) (Subclass 858)
Applicant Profile	Highly skilled individuals earn a minimum of $135,000 annually, requiring employer sponsorship.	Individuals with an internationally recognized record of exceptional talent, prominent in their respective fields.
Visa Length	Temporary visa valid for up to 4 years, with a pathway to permanent residency.	Direct permanent residency.
Sponsorship Requirement	Requires an approved employer sponsor.	Requires nomination through the approved Form 1000 process.
English Language Requirement	Competent English is required.	Functional English is acceptable, or applicants can pay a second VAC (Visa Application Charge).
Age Limit	No age limit, but permanent residency requirements may impose age restrictions.	No age limit for eligibility.
Occupation Restrictions	Most occupations are eligible except for trades workers, machinery operators, drivers, and laborers.	No occupation restrictions—open to all fields.
Grants Each Program Year	Demand-driven with no cap.	Grants are part of a planned program, and applicants must receive an invitation to apply.

The NIV offers a streamlined pathway to permanent residency for individuals with exceptional global talent, focusing on their contributions rather than traditional sponsorship or occupation limitations. In contrast, the SID visa caters to highly skilled professionals who meet salary thresholds and require employer sponsorship.

Overview of the National Innovation Visa (NIV) 858

The National Innovation Visa (NIV) 858 is designed to bring in a wide range of highly skilled, widely recognized people who can make a big difference in Australia’s growth and innovation. Here is a summary:

1. Focused on High-Calibre Talent

The NIV 858 is aimed at individuals who excel in their respective fields, including:

• Researchers & Thought Leaders: Global experts in academia with an extensive record of publications, high citation counts, and significant contributions to their field.
• Entrepreneurs: Both experienced and emerging innovators, particularly those who have been part of successful State or Territory-led initiatives.
• Innovative Investors: Individuals who prioritize impactful investments that foster growth and development, rather than merely meeting financial thresholds.
• Athletes & Creatives: Talented individuals representing Australia internationally in sports, arts, or other creative industries.

2. Invitation-Only Application Process

You can only apply for the NIV 858 if you are invited, and you have to send in an Expression of Interest (EOI). This ensures a focused selection process that identifies only the most exceptional candidates.

3. Direct Pathway to Permanent Residency

One of the most appealing features of the NIV 858 is its direct route to permanent residency, making it an ideal option for globally recognized professionals seeking long-term opportunities in Australia.

4. Nomination via Approved Form 1000

Applicants must be nominated using the approved Form 1000, which validates their qualifications and suitability for the visa. The nominator is key in endorsing the applicant’s eligibility and showcasing their exceptional talent.

The NIV 858 is a gateway for top-tier talent to bring their expertise and creativity to Australia, contributing to national growth and innovation across various fields.

5. English Language Requirement

Applicants must demonstrate functional English proficiency. Those unable to meet this requirement can opt to pay a secondary Visa Application Charge (VAC) as an alternative.

6. No Age or Occupation Restrictions

There are no age limits or occupation-specific criteria for this visa. However, certain age-related considerations apply:

• Under 18 or Over 55 Years Old: Applicants in these age groups must demonstrate that their migration will provide exceptional benefits to the Australian community.

7. Criteria for Exceptional Benefit

Applicants claiming exceptional benefit to the community must meet the following requirements:

• Ongoing Impact: The contributions must have long-term significance.
• Sustained Benefit: The benefit should remain impactful over time.
• Immediate Realization: Contributions must begin to show results shortly after migration.

8. Examples of Exceptional Benefit

The exceptional contributions may include:

1. Economic Contributions: Making significant and measurable contributions to the Australian economy.
2. Job Creation: Generating employment opportunities for a large number of Australian residents.
3. Research and Innovation: Advancing research, development, or innovation in sectors deemed critical to Australia’s growth.
4. Global Excellence: Raising Australia’s international standing in a key area of importance.

This flexibility makes the NIV 858 accessible to a diverse range of applicants, especially those who can demonstrate unique value to Australia’s economy, society, or global reputation.

Final Thoughts

The National Innovation Visa (NIV) 858 is a game-changer that will help Australia grow by attracting the best people from around the world. With a straight path to permanent residency, problems like job restrictions and the need for sponsorship are taken away. The NIV 858 shows Australia’s dedication to innovation and excellence to researchers, business owners, investors, and world leaders in the arts and sports. This visa is a great chance for people who want to make a real difference in Australia’s income and reputation around the world.