Direct permanent residency for internationally recognised leaders in research, technology, entrepreneurship, the arts, and academia — no points test, no employer required.
Introduced on 7 December 2024, the National Innovation Visa (NIV 858) replaced the Global Talent Visa as Australia's flagship pathway for exceptional individuals. It grants direct permanent residency — no provisional stage, no points test, no numerical cap — based entirely on internationally recognised achievement.
Direct permanent residency
No provisional or temporary stage. A single successful application grants you and your family immediate Australian PR.
No points test or English requirement
Assessment is holistic — based entirely on the strength of your achievements and their contribution to Australia.
No employer or job offer needed
You are endorsed for what you have achieved, not for a specific role or organisation.
Pathway to Australian citizenship
Permanent residents can apply for citizenship after 4 years, including at least 1 year as a PR holder.
There is no formula or checklist. Home Affairs assesses the totality of your record against an internationally recognised standard of exceptional achievement in any of these sectors.
High-impact publication records, significant citations, major grants, and peer recognition in natural sciences, engineering, or medical research.
Founders or leaders in AI, fintech, cybersecurity, or deep tech with demonstrable commercial impact, patents, or critical roles at recognised companies.
Founders of high-growth ventures with significant revenue, investment, or social impact — demonstrating that their work advances Australian productivity and competitiveness.
Senior academics, professors, and education leaders with an established body of influential work and international standing in their discipline.
Recognised leaders in visual arts, music, film, literature, or performing arts with significant critical acclaim, awards, or cultural impact.
Elite athletes and sports professionals with internationally recognised performance records or significant contributions to their sport.
The NIV 858 is designed for internationally recognised leaders — across research, technology, entrepreneurship, the arts, and academia.
From the architectural wonder of the Sydney Opera House to the ancient spiritual heart of Uluru, Australia is a continent of breathtaking diversity — and with the NIV 858, it can be yours to call home.
No. The National Innovation Visa does not require a job offer or an employer sponsor. You are assessed on your personal record of exceptional achievement and your potential to contribute to Australia's innovation, productivity, and competitiveness.
Your nominator must be a prominent Australian individual or a well-established Australian organisation operating in your field. They must be able to attest to the calibre of your achievements and your ability to contribute to Australia. Veripass helps identify the most appropriate nominator for your specific background.
The NIV 858 replaced the Global Talent Visa on 7 December 2024. The key changes include a streamlined EOI process, a more structured nominator requirement, and an updated assessment framework. Like its predecessor, it grants direct permanent residency with no points test or English requirement.
Yes. Your spouse or de facto partner and dependent children can be included in your NIV 858 application and receive permanent residency at the same time as you. Family members have full work and study rights in Australia from the date of grant.
There is no strict age limit. However, applicants under 18 or over 55 are required to demonstrate "exceptional benefit" to the Australian community. Applicants in the prime working years face no age-related restriction at all.
The EOI stage takes approximately 1–12 months depending on your priority. After receiving an invitation and lodging your visa application, the Department of Home Affairs currently takes 9–17 months to reach a decision. Strong applications with clear evidence of exceptional achievement tend to process faster.
Our immigration specialists will assess your profile and tell you honestly whether you have a strong NIV 858 case — and exactly what evidence to prepare.