How to Get Australian Citizenship Through the National Visa—Who Qualifies?

The National Innovation Visa (subclass 858) is Australia’s direct route to permanent residency and eventual citizenship for people with an internationally recognised record of exceptional achievement. The National Innovation Visa has taken over the Global Talent Visa, which closed 6 December 2024.

Who Is Eligible for the National Visa?

To be eligible under the national visa you must have an international reputation in one of the following:

1. A profession.
2. Sport.
3. The arts.
4. Academia or research.

You must also have a nominator with a national reputation in your field. The nominator can be:

1. An Australian citizen or permanent resident.
2. An eligible New Zealand citizen.
3. An Australian organisation.

The nominator must complete Form 1000 – Nomination for National Innovation Visa as part of your application.

What Is the Application Process?

Expression of Interest (EOI): You can submit your EOI by completing the EOI form on the Australian immigration website. You can submit your EOI from either inside or outside Australia and not during immigration clearance.

Invitation: If you are successful, you will then receive an invitation to apply. You are required to submit your visa application within 60 days of receiving the invitation.

Visa Application: You must submit evidence of your achievements and evidence/documentation supporting any claims in your EOI.

The visa provides permanent residency to enable you to:

– Work and study in Australia.

– Enroll in Medicare.

– Sponsor family.

– Travel unrestricted for 5 years.

– Apply for citizenship (if eligible).

New fees apply for citizenship applications from 1 July 2025. You may apply for Australian citizenship, after holding the visa and meeting residency requirements.