National Innovation Visa – Subclass 858

The National Innovation Visa is a permanent visa pathway for exceptionally talented individuals who can make a significant contribution to Australia.

It may be relevant to:

• Accomplished entrepreneurs
• Innovative business founders
• Leading researchers and academics
• High-impact investors with recognised achievements
• Professionals with an exceptional international track record

This is not a conventional investment visa. There is no standard investment amount that automatically qualifies an applicant. Selection is based on achievements, international recognition and the applicant’s potential contribution to Australia.

General Process

The process generally includes:

1. Preparing evidence of exceptional achievements
2. Submitting an Expression of Interest
3. Receiving an invitation from the Department of Home Affairs
4. Lodging the Subclass 858 visa application
5. Completing health, character and supporting-document requirements
6. Receiving permanent residence if the application is approved

Submitting an Expression of Interest does not guarantee an invitation. The visa is highly selective and applicants must provide strong evidence of recognised achievements and future value to Australia.

Can Property Investment Provide Residency?

Buying residential or commercial property in Australia does not provide automatic residency, permanent residence or citizenship.

Foreign nationals may be able to purchase certain property subject to Australia’s foreign-investment rules, but property ownership by itself is not an immigration pathway. Visa eligibility must be established separately under an available migration program.

Pathway to Australian Citizenship

Australia does not grant citizenship directly in exchange for an investment.

Applicants normally obtain permanent residence through an eligible visa before applying for citizenship. General citizenship-by-conferral requirements usually include:

• Holding Australian permanent residence
• Meeting the applicable residence requirement
• Satisfying character requirements
• Passing the citizenship test where applicable
• Demonstrating an intention to maintain a connection with Australia

In general, an applicant must have lived lawfully in Australia for four years immediately before applying, including at least the final 12 months as a permanent resident, subject to permitted absence limits and other conditions.