National Innovation Visa (NIV) implementation

The Australian Government has announced that effective 6 December 2024, the National Innovation Visa (NIV) will replace the Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858).  

This new visa is part of a broader strategy to attract exceptionally talented individuals who can drive growth in sectors of national importance. 

What is the National Innovation visa? 

The National Innovation visa will remain under subclass 858, offering a pathway for a broad spectrum of high-calibre talent. It is designed to attract individuals from diverse backgrounds, ensuring that Australia continues to foster innovation, growth, and development across various sectors. 

The visa targets four main categories of exceptional talent: 

1. Global Researchers and Thought Leaders: applicants will need to demonstrate a strong track record of research, with significant publications in leading journals, high levels of citations, and awards that place them at the forefront of their field. 
2. Entrepreneurs: both established and emerging entrepreneurs will be eligible, especially those who have demonstrated success in initiatives led by states and territories.  
3. Innovative Investors: unlike previous visas that focused primarily on investment thresholds, this visa will place greater emphasis on the quality of investment, prioritising those who contribute meaningfully to Australia’s economic and innovative sectors. 
4. Athletes and Creatives: exceptional athletes and creatives, particularly those who represent Australia internationally, will also be able to apply, contributing to Australia’s global image and development in their respective fields. 

Application process and requirements 

The application process for the Subclass 858 (National Innovation) visa has been streamlined to enhance efficiency. Applicants are required to submit Form 47NI through ImmiAccount, the Department of Home Affairs’ online portal.  

In certain cases, and if authorised, applications may be submitted via email to an official Department address. These procedures are outlined in the Migration (Arrangements for Certain Business Skills Visas) Amendment (LIN 24/078) Instrument 2024, which takes effect on 6 December 2024. 

What are the changes 

The Migration Amendment (National Innovation Visa) Regulations 2024 introduce several key changes: 

• Renaming of visa class: the Global Talent (Subclass 858) visa is now the National Innovation (Subclass 858) visa. 

• Invitation requirement: applicants must receive a written invitation from the Minister to apply for the NIV within a specified timeframe. 

• Alignment of achievements: applicants are required to demonstrate the same internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievements outlined in their invitation letter. 

• Removal of endorsement requirement: the role of the ‘Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for Global Business and Talent Attraction’ has been eliminated due to low utilisation since its introduction. 

Transitional arrangements 

Applications for the Global Talent Visa submitted before 6 December 2024 will be assessed under the legislation in effect at the time of application. The new amendments apply exclusively to applications lodged on or after 6 December 2024. 

Nomination requirements 

Applicants must be nominated by: 

• an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible New Zealand citizen 

• an Australian organisation with a national reputation in the applicant’s area of expertise 

The nomination should affirm the applicant’s achievements and their potential to contribute to Australia’s innovation landscape. 

Benefits of the National Innovation Visa 

The NIV offers several advantages, including: 

• Direct pathway to permanent residency: visa holders can live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. 

• Flexibility in age and English proficiency: there are no specific age limits, and applicants with less than functional English can opt to pay a second Visa Application Charge. 

• No occupation restrictions: the visa is open to individuals across various sectors, provided they meet the achievement criteria. 

The National Innovation Visa aims to attract exceptional talent to Australia, fostering innovation and enhancing global competitiveness. By streamlining the application process and focusing on outstanding achievements, the NIV seeks to build a dynamic community of innovators contributing to Australia’s future growth. 

For further assistance or to discuss your migration options, please contact aisupport@absoluteimmigration.com.