CathayCity - Global Citizens

Australia · National Innovation Visa (NIV)

NIV is subclass 858. Investor, entrepreneur and talent profiles are not three separate investment-purchase visas. An invitation is required.

NIV: exceptional achievement and invitation

  • NIV is subclass 858. Investor, entrepreneur and talent profiles are not three separate investment-purchase visas. An invitation is required.
  • Applicants aged 18 or over must show functional English or pay the second instalment of the visa application charge.
  • Applicants under 18 or aged 55 or over must demonstrate exceptional benefit to the Australian community.
Checked 9 September 2026

Programme overview

Talent pathway · Subclass 858Invitation-based assessment

For exceptionally accomplished people seeking to develop their work in Australia. Evidence of achievements and programme priorities are central.

  • Submit an expression of interest, then await an invitation
  • An expression of interest is not a visa application
  • An invitation does not guarantee visa approval
Summary reviewed:2026-09-08 · Amounts do not include all application costs

Prepare your application

  1. Confirm the route

    Identify the exact visa or residence category and assess the applicant and accompanying family members separately.

  2. Organise the evidence

    Prepare identity, family and background documents relevant to the published requirements. Check consistency across the application.

  3. Plan the submission

    Confirm the application stages, required evidence and applicable fees before submitting. Respond to requests from the responsible authority.

Explore this programme

A reading guide to the full material below.

Titles are only the beginning; influence is what matters. We find the narrative across research, breakthroughs, awards, citations, leadership and industry contribution so a decision-maker can understand why your work matters and what Australia could gain.

Who this route may suit

  • International awards, landmark outcomes or sustained recognition
  • A leading role in an institution, industry or professional community
  • Results supported by authorities, experts or objective measures
  • A clear direction for continuing the work in Australia

What matters most

  • The NIV is an invitation-only subclass 858 permanent visa
  • Exceptional achievement, current standing and future contribution are central
  • An appropriate Australian nomination and English position must be addressed
  • Applicants under 18 or aged 55 or over must consider the exceptional-benefit requirement

A clearer way forward

  • Audit achievements and choose the clearest professional positioning
  • Build an evidence matrix for results, recognition, influence and future plans
  • Prepare a focused expression of interest and supporting evidence
  • After invitation, complete nomination, health, character and visa documents

Plan for the real risks

Volume is not persuasion. Repetitive material, weak independent recognition or unexplained impact can hide the very strengths the case needs to show.

Begin with an achievement audit and identify the evidence that deserves to be seen.

Book a private initial assessment and turn the questions that matter into a practical next-step plan.

Book a private assessment

YOUR NEXT CHAPTER

Start with a clear eligibility assessment

Tell us your goals, timing and family circumstances. We will review your background and budget to identify application pathways worth exploring.

PRIVATE CONSULTATION

Free immigration assessment

We only collect information needed for initial planning. No passport or financial documents are required.