Visas
National Innovation visa (subclass 858)
The 858 replaced the old Global Talent in late 2024 — a permanent visa for people with internationally recognised exceptional achievement in priority sectors.
Published 17 May 2026 · Last reviewed 17 May 2026
The 858 replaced the old Global Talent (subclass 858 — same number, new program) in late 2024. It's a permanent visa for people with an internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement in an eligible field.
Who it's for (broad sense)
- Internationally recognised talent in sectors aligned with Australian government priorities (sectors shift — verify the current list).
- People nominated by an eligible Australian nominator (citizen, PR, or eligible Australian organisation).
- High-income earners and people with significant verifiable accomplishments.
Process
- Submit an Expression of Interest through the Home Affairs portal. Note: from 29 November 2024 the older Global Talent EOI pathway closed; applications now run through the National Innovation visa form. Verify current process at the link below.
- If invited, lodge a full application.
- Must provide evidence of functional English or pay a second VAC instalment.
Common gotchas
- "Eligible field" is a moving target. The official list is the source of truth.
- The nominator must be willing and able to attest to your standing in the field.
- This is not a points-tested visa — there's no minimum score, but the bar is genuinely high.
Where to read more
- Subclass 858 National Innovation visa: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/national-innovation-visa-858
- National Innovation visa overview: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/visas-for-innovation/national-innovation-visa