The National Innovation Visa (NIV) Subclass 858 is a permanent visa program designed to attract exceptionally talented individuals who can drive innovation, economic growth, and international competitiveness in Australia. This visa offers a direct pathway to permanent residency, allowing holders to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
Key Features of NIV
– Pathway to Permanent Residency: NIV 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 (VAC).
– No Occupation Restrictions: The NIV is available to individuals across various sectors, provided they meet the achievement criteria.
– Invitation Requirement: The NIV is an invitation-only visa, and applicants must receive a written invitation from the Minister to apply for the NIV within a specified timeframe ¹.
Priority Groups
The NIV prioritizes applicants based on their achievements and potential contributions to Australia. The priority groups are:
– Priority 1: Global experts with prestigious international awards, such as Nobel Prizes, Breakthrough Prizes, and Olympic Gold Medals.
– Priority 2: Candidates nominated by Australian government agencies, including athletes, creatives, and innovative investors.
– Priority 3: Individuals with exceptional achievements in critical technologies, health industries, and renewable energy sectors.
– Priority 4: Candidates with outstanding achievements in secondary industries, such as agri-food, defense, education, financial services, and resources.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the NIV, applicants must:
– Display Exceptional Achievements: Demonstrate an internationally recognized record of exceptional and outstanding achievements in their field.
– Nominator Requirement: Secure a nomination from an Australian individual or organization with a national reputation in the same field, using Form 1000.
– Meet Health and Character Requirements: Pass medical examinations and provide police clearance certificates.
– Functional English Proficiency: Have functional English or be willing to pay an additional applicant charge ¹ ².
Form 1000: Nomination Requirement
Form 1000 is a crucial document that requires a nominator with a national reputation to endorse the applicant’s record of achievement. The nominator must be:
– An Australian citizen or permanent resident
– An eligible New Zealand citizen
– An Australian organization or institution
The nominator must provide detailed information about their national reputation, professional associations, and the applicant’s achievements ².
Application Process
- Determine Eligibility: Assess your eligibility for the NIV based on your achievements and potential contributions to Australia.
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Lodge an EOI via the online Government portal, highlighting your qualifications, experience, and aims of contributing to Australia’s economy.
- Wait for an Invitation: If your EOI is successful, you will receive an invitation to submit a visa application.
- Lodge Your Visa Application: Submit the necessary documentation, including evidence of qualifications, experience, and industry recognition.
- Receive the Visa Decision: If successful, you will be granted permanent residency under the National Innovation Visa subclass 858
