Australia's National Innovation Visa (NIV) Officially Launched! Replacing the Global Talent visa
- MEA GROUP
- Feb 19
- 3 min read
The National Innovation Visa (NIV, Visa Subclass 858) was officially launched on December 7, 2024! This new visa replaces the previous Global Talent Visa and continues to focus on attracting top global talent to inject fresh energy into Australia’s economic, cultural, and social development.
Unique Advantages of the NIV Visa
No Strict Age Limit: While there are no strict age requirements, applicants under 18 or over 55 need to demonstrate exceptional contributions to Australia.
English Requirement Waiver: Applicants can either demonstrate functional English skills or pay an additional language fee to waive the English proficiency requirement.
Nomination Requirement: Applicants must be nominated by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or a New Zealand citizen of national prominence to validate their achievements and potential contributions to Australia.
Priority Processing: The NIV visa prioritizes applicants based on their field achievements, especially those with significant global impact.
Direct Path to Permanent Residency: The NIV visa allows applicants and their families to receive permanent residency immediately, without needing a temporary visa first, and provides the opportunity to apply for Australian citizenship later.
Who Can Apply for the NIV?
The NIV is open to outstanding talent globally, across the following fields:
Global Researchers and Thought Leaders: Professionals who have achieved excellence in research, scientific discoveries, or academic work, such as publishing high-impact articles in top academic journals or receiving prestigious industry awards.
Entrepreneurs: Both successful entrepreneurs and emerging startup founders with innovative thinking and proven success are eligible.
Innovative Investors: This visa targets high-net-worth individuals focused on investing in innovation, emphasizing the quality of investment over a simple financial threshold.
Athletes and Creatives: Exceptional athletes and creative professionals representing Australia on the international stage.
Key Consideration
The Department of Home Affairs will assess applicants based on the following factors:
International Recognition of Achievements: Such as winning international awards or publishing influential research.
Potential Contribution to Australia: Whether the applicant’s field aligns with key Australian industries such as health, renewable energy, agriculture, resources, and fintech.
Salary Level: While there’s no mandatory annual salary requirement, a salary at or above the high-income threshold (e.g., AUD 175,000) is an important factor.
Employment Contract from an Australian Employer: Whether the applicant has a job offer from an Australian employer, and the salary level associated with it.
Application Process
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Applicants must first submit an EOI expressing their intention to migrate.
Receive an Invitation: The Department of Home Affairs will issue invitations to eligible applicants based on their field and achievements.
Submit Visa Application: After receiving an invitation, applicants must submit their visa application within the specified time frame.
Visa Grant: Once approved, applicants will receive their Australian Green Card (Permanent Residency).
Important Notes
Invitation-Based Application: The NIV operates on an invitation system. Applicants must submit an EOI first, similar to other invitation-based visa categories for exceptional talent.
Quota Limitations: There is a set quota for NIV visas each fiscal year (July 1 to June 30). Applicants should submit their EOI early to secure an invitation.
Processing Time: Visa processing times may vary based on the applicant's situation and the workload of the Department of Home Affairs. Applicants should be patient.
NIV Visa Priority Review Process
The EOI review process follows a strict priority order to ensure that the top, most qualified talents with the greatest potential to benefit Australia are prioritized:
First Priority: World-leading talent from any field who are global experts and recipients of international ‘top of field’ level awards, such as Nobel Prize winners, Breakthrough Prizes, L’Oreal-UNESCO Award for Women in Science, Olympic medallists, and other experts with a broad international influence.
Second Priority: Applicants with a signed Form 1000 from an expert Australian Commonwealth, State or Territory Government agency, indicating exceptional contributions and high recognition in a specific field.
Third Priority: Applicants with outstanding achievements in the Tier One sector:
Critical technologies
Health industries
Renewable energy and low-emission technologies.
Fourth Priority: Applicants with outstanding achievements in Tier Two sector that are vital to Australia's economic diversification and sustainable development:
Agri-food and Ag Tech
Defence and space
Education
Financial services and fintech
Infrastructure and transport
Resources
Overall, the NIV visa not only continues the GTI visa’s strategy of attracting global talent but also further clarifies the priority review process, especially opening dedicated pathways for investors and entrepreneurs. Whether you’re a top international talent or a leader in a critical Australian industry, the NIV visa offers a fast track to Australian permanent residency!
The NIV visa quota is limited each fiscal year, so submitting your EOI early is key to success! If you’re interested in applying, feel free to contact us anytime. Our professional team will provide you with comprehensive consulting and services to help you secure your Australian Green Card!