The program has changed
This page covers the current National Innovation visa, not an independently open Global Talent visa.
AUSTRALIAN VISA PATHWAYS · OFFICIAL-SOURCE GUIDE
Subclass 858: National Innovation Visa (Former Global Talent)
Subclass 858 is currently the National Innovation visa, an invitation-only permanent pathway for internationally recognised exceptional achievement. The old Global Talent page name is retained only for people following an existing link.
Permanent residenceLast verified: 18 October 2026
Invitation only Guide to the current pathway, not an eligibility determination.
THE DECISION FRAMEWORK
RoleEmployer or talent eligibility
01StreamSelect the right visa
02EvidenceSponsor, skills & records
03ApplicationNomination & visa steps
04OutcomeComply with grant conditions
05StayPermanent
SelectionEOI then invitation
EvidenceExceptional achievements
NominationForm 1000 at application
CURRENT REQUIREMENTS / STREAM DETAIL
What matters for this pathway
Subclass 858 is currently the National Innovation visa, an invitation-only permanent pathway for internationally recognised exceptional achievement. The old Global Talent page name is retained only for people following an existing link.
Invitation is essential
A National Innovation EOI is an expression of interest rather than a visa application. The Department must invite applicants before they may apply.
Recognised exceptional achievement
Evidence should show sustained outstanding international achievement in an eligible profession, sport, the arts, or academia/research.
Nominator and timing
An eligible person or Australian organisation with a national reputation in the field supports the application via Form 1000. A visa application generally must be lodged within 60 days of invitation.
Check the government stream criteriaNational Innovation visa
01 / INTRODUCTION
Who should consider this visa?
Subclass 858 is currently the National Innovation visa, an invitation-only permanent pathway for internationally recognised exceptional achievement. The old Global Talent page name is retained only for people following an existing link.
Core idea
An invitation-only permanent route for applicants with internationally recognised exceptional achievements.
02 / ELIGIBILITY
Core eligibility and evidence
Start with these themes, then verify the relevant visa stream and current government criteria before any application.
Submit a National Innovation Visa EOI supported by credible evidence of exceptional and internationally recognised achievement.
Receive a departmental invitation before making a visa application.
Lodge within 60 days after invitation and provide the completed Form 1000 from a qualified nominator.
Show ongoing prominence, capacity to contribute and the other applicable eligibility requirements.
A practical application sequence
Sequence matters. Each stage depends on the evidence collected at the one before it.
01
Map achievements
Select substantial evidence such as internationally recognised awards, contributions, patents, publications or industry impact.
02
Lodge NIV EOI
Use the separate innovation EOI process; it is not the points-tested SkillSelect EOI.
03
Prepare an eligible nominator
Engage a qualified Australian or other eligible nominator with national standing in the relevant field.
04
Apply if invited
Submit the application and Form 1000 within the non-extendable invitation period.
04 / IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS
What applicants often overlook
The previous Global Talent (subclass 858) terminology must not be used as if it were a currently open separate stream.
An NIV EOI does not grant visa status or guarantee an invitation.
The 60-day invitation window is strict; preparing a nominator early reduces avoidable risk.
Home Affairs keeps NIV EOIs active for two years; it cautions against repeatedly submitting EOIs without meaningful new achievement evidence.
05 / COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently asked questions
Answers reflect the official program material checked in October 2026. Individual facts can change the outcome.
Can I apply without an invitation?
No. Home Affairs must invite you before you can lodge a National Innovation visa application.
Is this a standard business investor visa?
No. It focuses on exceptional achievement and contribution, not merely investment capacity.
Do I need a nominator?
Yes. A qualified nominator attests to achievements on Form 1000 when you apply.
PRIMARY SOURCES
Verify with Home Affairs
Read the official visa pages before relying on a threshold, stream, deadline, occupation list or eligibility claim.
Official Home Affairs references · Reviewed 18 October 2026
Related visa pathways
TemporarySubclass 482Skills in DemandAustralia’s current subclass 482 skilled work visa, replacing the old Temporary Skill Shortage (TSS) branding.View guide PermanentSubclass 190Skilled NominatedPermanent residence for skilled applicants nominated by an Australian state or territory and invited to apply.View guide