Global Talent Independent Program
Australia's former Global Talent visa pathway is closed to new applications. From 6 December 2024, the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) became the current invitation-only permanent pathway for exceptionally talented global candidates.
Important program update: New Global Talent visa applications are no longer accepted. The Department continues to process eligible on-hand Global Talent applications, while prospective applicants must now consider the National Innovation Visa and its current Expression of Interest process.
What replaced the Global Talent Independent Program?
The National Innovation Visa (NIV) Subclass 858 replaced the Global Talent visa. It is a permanent visa intended for established and emerging leaders with an internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement who can make a significant contribution to Australia's future prosperity.
The current program considers exceptional candidates including global researchers, entrepreneurs, innovative investors, athletes and creatives. It is highly selective and invitation-only; submitting an EOI does not amount to a visa application or guarantee an invitation.
Who may be suited to the current pathway?
Core National Innovation Visa requirements
Candidates must demonstrate an internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement and current prominence in an eligible area. They must first receive an invitation to apply and, at visa application stage, provide a completed Form 1000 nomination from an Australian citizen, permanent resident, eligible New Zealand citizen or Australian organisation with a national reputation in the same area.
Applicants who are under 18 or aged 55 or older must also demonstrate that they would provide exceptional benefit to the Australian community. All applicants must meet applicable health, character and other visa requirements.
How the current invitation process works
Assess the strength of your profile
Review international recognition, major achievements, current prominence, leadership, innovation and the measurable benefit you could bring to Australia.
Prepare a complete EOI portfolio
Gather your passport, CV, highest qualification and strong evidence of achievements, awards, media, leadership, commercial impact or research outcomes.
Submit the National Innovation EOI
Complete every field and attach all supporting documents in English. Information cannot normally be added to the EOI after submission.
Wait for an invitation
The Department considers EOIs against current priorities and evidence. An EOI may remain in the system for up to two years, but an invitation is not guaranteed.
Lodge the visa application
If invited, secure the required Form 1000 nomination and submit the Subclass 858 visa application within 60 days with evidence supporting the achievements identified in the invitation.
Evidence of exceptional achievement
Strong evidence may include internationally recognised awards, patents, high-impact publications and citations, significant funding, leadership appointments, major commercial outcomes, business growth, job creation, elite competition results, major commissioned creative work, international media coverage and endorsements from respected organisations or experts.
The quality, recency and international standing of achievements matter more than document volume. Evidence should show both past excellence and the candidate's continuing ability to contribute meaningfully in Australia.
The role of the nominator
An invitation does not remove the nomination requirement. At visa application stage, a qualified person or Australian organisation with a national reputation in the candidate's field must attest to the applicant's internationally recognised record through Form 1000. The nominator does not need to employ or financially support the applicant.
Benefits of the National Innovation Visa
- Live in Australia permanently as a permanent resident.
- Work and study in Australia.
- Include eligible members of the family unit.
- Enrol in Medicare, subject to applicable eligibility rules.
- Sponsor eligible relatives for permanent residence.
- Travel to and from Australia for five years from visa grant.
- Apply for Australian citizenship later if eligible.
Documents commonly required
Documents may include identity and civil records, a detailed CV, qualifications, publications, citation records, patents, awards, media reports, financial or investment evidence, business and employment records, reference statements, evidence of current prominence, Form 1000 nomination, family documents, police certificates and health examinations.
How Echoes Global Education can assist
Our migration team can explain the closure of the former Global Talent program, assess whether your profile may align with the National Innovation pathway, help structure an evidence-led EOI, identify documentation gaps and guide the invited Subclass 858 application process.