National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)
If you’ve done something truly outstanding in your career—whether in sport, the arts, academia, or a profession—you might be eligible for Australia’s National Innovation visa (Subclass 858).
This visa is a direct path to permanent residency in Australia. But the process can feel overwhelming, especially when your future is on the line. That’s where CIA Lawyers come in. We’ll help you make sense of the steps, prepare the right paperwork, and stand by you through the entire process.
What Is the National Innovation Visa?
The National Innovation visa (Subclass 858) is a permanent residency visa for individuals with an internationally recognised record of exceptional achievement in a specific area. It replaced the Global Talent visa in December 2024.
It’s designed for the high achievers—the kind of people who’ve made a significant impact in their field and are ready to contribute their talents to Australia.
This visa is not for everyone. It’s for those who’ve gone above and beyond, and have the recognition to prove it.
National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) – At a Glance
Facts | Details |
Eligible Fields | – A recognised profession – Sport – The arts – Academia and research |
Who Can Apply | – Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) – Wait for invitation to apply – Apply within 60 days of invitation – Apply from inside or outside Australia (not in immigration clearance) |
Nominator Requirements | – Must have a national reputation in your field – Can be: • Australian citizen • Permanent resident • Eligible NZ citizen • Australian organisation |
Visa Benefits | – Live permanently in Australia – Work and study freely – Access Medicare – Sponsor eligible relatives – Travel for 5 years – Pathway to Australian citizenship |
Required Documents | – Proof of international achievements – Career and qualification details – Nominator’s statement – ID and current visa documents (if applicable) |
Eligible Fields
To apply for this visa, you must have an exceptional record in one of the following areas:
- A recognised profession
- Sport
- The arts
- Academia and research
Your achievements must be recognised not just locally, but internationally.
Who Can Apply for the National Innovation Visa?
Not everyone can just fill out a form and send it off. The process starts with an invitation from the Department of Home Affairs.
Here’s what you need:
- You must lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI).
- You must wait to be invited to apply.
- Once invited, you have 60 days to submit your application.
- You can apply from inside or outside Australia, as long as you’re not in immigration clearance at the time.
- You must have a nominator with a national reputation in your area of talent. Your nominator can be:
- An Australian citizen
- A permanent resident
- An eligible New Zealand citizen
- An Australian organisation
- An Australian citizen
Most importantly, your track record of achievement must be ongoing. It’s not about one good project years ago—it’s about consistent excellence.
What You Can Do With This Visa
The National Innovation visa is one of the most generous pathways to live and work in Australia.
With this visa, you can:
- Live permanently in Australia
- Work and study freely
- Enrol in Medicare
- Sponsor eligible relatives to come to Australia
- Travel in and out of the country for five years
- If you meet the requirements, apply for Australian citizenship in the future
It gives you stability and freedom to continue your work without limitations.
What Documents You’ll Need
Paperwork matters. A lot.
When it comes to the National Innovation visa, a strong application is built on clear, detailed proof of your achievements and identity.
You can’t just say you’ve done amazing things — you need to show it.
Here’s what you’ll likely need to prepare:
1. Proof of international achievements
This is the most important part. The Department of Home Affairs wants to see that your work has been recognised worldwide.
You can include:
- Awards and honours
- International press or media coverage
- Invitations to speak at major events
- Publications, patents, or research with global impact
2. Career and qualification details
Share your career history — where you’ve worked, what you’ve done, and how long you’ve done it.
Also include your qualifications, especially if they relate to your area of expertise.
3. A nominator’s statement
Your nominator plays a key role. They need to write a detailed statement backing your achievements and reputation. This must come from someone (or an organisation) with a national reputation in your field.
4. Personal documents
Don’t forget the basics. You’ll need to prove your identity and visa status.
This might include:
- Passport or travel document
- Birth certificate
- Current Australian visa (if you’re applying from inside the country)
5. Other supporting material
Depending on your field, you might also need:
- Portfolio of work
- Reference letters
- Links to published articles, performances, or exhibitions
- Media mentions or interviews
Expert tip: Remember — the more evidence, the better. But it must be relevant and clearly presented.
If something’s hard to understand or looks incomplete, it could delay things.
Not sure if your documents are enough? That’s what we’re here for.
How CIA Lawyers Can Help
This isn’t a visa you want to get wrong. The requirements are strict, and the competition is high. That’s why working with a qualified immigration lawyer can make a huge difference.
At CIA Lawyers, we:
- Review your eligibility
- Help you prepare a strong Expression of Interest
- Assist in selecting a suitable nominator
- Guide you through each document required
- Submit a complete and accurate visa application
- Communicate with the Department on your behalf
We’re not here to overcomplicate things—we’re here to make it easier for you.
Why People Trust CIA Lawyers
We’ve helped people from all walks of life get the right visa outcomes. We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Every person has a different story, and we take the time to understand yours.
Our core values—empathy, integrity, and commitment—guide everything we do.
You won’t get a rushed consultation or cookie-cutter advice. You’ll get a legal team that’s genuinely invested in your success.
Get a FREE Consultation from Expert Immigration Lawyers for National Innovation Visa
Still unsure if you qualify? Or confused about where to start?
We offer a FREE initial consultation for individuals considering the National Innovation visa.
This is your chance to:
- Ask questions
- Get expert advice
- Understand what documents you’ll need
- Find out how we can support you throughout the process
There’s no pressure. Just clear, honest advice from lawyers who know the system inside out.
Call us now on +61 480 294 699, or book online through our consultation page:
👉 Book a Free Consultation
Let’s Help You Call Australia Home
You’ve worked hard to build your career. You deserve a team that works just as hard to support your move to Australia.
At CIA Lawyers, we’re ready to guide you step-by-step, with personal attention and expert advice.
No confusion. No guesswork. Just expert legal help when you need it.
Call us today or book online to start your journey with a team that truly has your back.
FAQs About the National Innovation Visa
Q: Do I need to be in Australia to apply?
A. No. You can be inside or outside Australia when you apply and when the visa is granted. You just can’t be in immigration clearance at the time.
Q: Can I include family members in my application?
A. Yes, eligible family members can be included in your application. They can also enjoy the same benefits once the visa is granted.
Q: What if I’m not sure I meet the ‘internationally recognised’ criteria?
A. We recommend booking a FREE consultation so we can assess your case. Every situation is different, and we’ll give you clear advice based on your unique achievements.
Q: Can CIA Lawyers help with gathering documents and submitting the EOI?
A. Absolutely. We handle everything from checking your eligibility to preparing your application and working with your nominator.
Q: What if my application is refused?
A. We can advise you on possible review options, depending on the reason for the refusal. Having expert legal help from the beginning reduces the risk of refusal.
Q: How do I get started?
A. You can call us on +61 480 294 699, email us at ishraque@cialawyers.com.au, or book online at https://cialawyers.com.au/book-initial-consultation/
Our Process
Connect with a qualified solicitor to discuss your immigration needs and determine the best strategy for securing your visa under Australian immigration law.
Our legal consultants will guide you through the preparation of all required documentation, including any necessary written or oral submissions.
We stand by your side throughout the entire process, advocating on your behalf and supporting you until your visa application is successfully approved.
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