The National Innovation Visa Program, or the subclass 858 visa, is designed to attract the best and brightest to contribute to Australia’s innovation and international competitiveness. If you’re considering this visa pathway, learn what the 858 visa is and how you can apply. 

What Is an 858 Visa?

The subclass 858 visa is a permanent visa for individuals internationally recognised for exceptional achievements in a profession, sport, the arts, academia, and research. It allows you to live and work in Australia permanently, bring family members with you, and provides a direct pathway to citizenship.

Who Is Eligible?

Before you begin the application, it’s important to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria:

• You must be nominated by an Australian citizen, permanent resident, eligible New Zealand citizen, or an Australian organisation with a national reputation in your area of talent.
• You must be internationally recognised with a record of achievement in your field.
• Your achievements must be exceptional, sustained over the years.
• You must still be prominent in your area of expertise.
• You must be able to contribute to Australia’s community in your field.

You must have no difficulty obtaining employment or becoming established in your area of talent in Australia.

How To Apply for an 858 Visa

Here are some steps to apply for the 858 visa: 

1. Gather the Required Documents

The first step is to gather all necessary documents to support your application.

• Proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, etc.)
• Evidence of your international recognition (awards, media articles, publications, etc.)
• Letters of support or endorsements from experts in your field
• Proof of recent work or contributions in your area
• Nomination form (Form 1000)
• Evidence of English proficiency
• Health and character documents.

Ensure all documents are certified, translated into English, and updated.

2. Find a Nominator

A nominator is critical for your 858 visa application. Your nominator must:

• Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, eligible New Zealand citizen, or an Australian organisation
• Have a national reputation in the same field as you
• Be willing to vouch for your achievements and the value you would bring to Australia.

The nominator must complete and submit Form 1000, which becomes part of your application.

3. Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)

You can submit an Expression of Interest through the National Innovation Visa (NIV) program. The Department of Home Affairs reviews EOIs to determine whether applicants should receive an invitation to apply for the 858 visa.

Make sure to include:

• Details about your field of expertise
• Career highlights and key contributions
• Evidence of awards, international recognition, and public impact
• Your current employment and any academic or professional appointments.
  

4. Wait for an Invitation

If your EOI is successful, you will receive an invitation to apply for the subclass 858 visa. This invitation typically includes a unique identifier that you must include in your visa application. The invitation does not guarantee a visa but allows you to proceed with your application.

5. Apply for the 858 Visa

Once invited, you can lodge your visa application online through the ImmiAccount portal. Attach all required documents and ensure your application is complete. Incomplete applications may lead to delays or refusal.

Key items to include:

• Completed Form 1000 from your nominator
• Supporting documents mentioned earlier
• Fees (current visa fees are published on the Department of Home Affairs website).

6. Health and Character Checks

You and family members included in the application must undergo health examinations by an approved panel of physicians. You must also provide police certificates from every country you have lived in for 12 months or more in the last 10 years. These checks are essential to meet Australia’s health and character requirements.

7. Await a Decision

After submission, the Department of Home Affairs will assess your application. Processing times can vary based on the complexity of your case, the volume of applications, and the completeness of your submission.

Ensure you are available for additional information requests or interviews during this time. You may also receive notifications through your ImmiAccount, so check it regularly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To improve your chances of success, avoid the following pitfalls:

• Submitting incomplete or poorly organised documents
• Choosing a nominator without a strong national reputation
• Failing to demonstrate how your skills benefit Australia
• Missing deadlines or ignoring requests for further information.

Working with migration experts like Australia Migrate can help avoid these mistakes and ensure your application meets all standards.

Tips from Australia Migrate

Australia Migrate helps many talented individuals secure an 858 visa. Here are some of our tips:

• Begin with a detailed consultation to assess your eligibility
• Take time to gather high-quality evidence of your achievements
• Select a nominator strategically and secure a strong endorsement
• Tailor your EOI to the criteria outlined by the Department
• Seek professional help to polish and lodge your application.

FAQs

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about 858 visas: 

1. What is the difference between the 858 and 124 visas? The 858 visa replaced the onshore 124 visa in November 2020. It covers both onshore and offshore applicants under a single category.
2. How long does it take to process an 858 visa? Processing times can vary, but many successful applications are finalised within 3 to 6 months, especially when lodged through the National Innovation Visa stream.
3. Can you include your family in the application? You can include your spouse, de facto partner, and dependent children in your visa application.
4. Is there an age limit for the 858 visa? There is no age limit; however, if you are under 18 or over 55, you must demonstrate how you would offer exceptional benefit to the Australian community.
5. Do you need a job offer to apply for the 858 visa? You must show you can contribute to Australia in your field and have no difficulty finding work or establishing yourself.

Conclusion

The 858 visa is a valuable opportunity for those who have made significant international achievements in their field. From gathering documents to securing a nominator and lodging your application, each step requires careful planning and execution. 

Australia Migrate is a trusted migration consultancy specialising in visa applications. We help you navigate the process and move one step closer to starting your new life in Australia.

Contact us online to start your application.