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  • Australia National Innovation Visa 858 2026 — Complete

    Permanent visa for exceptional talent. AUD $183,100/year income threshold. 4,300 places. Replaced Global Talent visa. Priority processing.

    Best For

    Mid-career professionals with a job offer and relevant qualifications

    Not Ideal For

    Freelancers without employer sponsorship or those without recognised qualifications

    Known Issues

    Must earn/demonstrate potential to earn AUD $183,100/yr (~€110,000). 4,300 places in 2025-26. Exceptional talent required.

    At a Glance

    Visa Duration
    12 months
    Processing Time
    90–180 days
    Min Income
    €110,000/yearly
    Path to PR
    4 years
    Difficulty
    5/10 — Challenging
    Application Fee
    €2,459

    Eligibility Requirements

    RequirementDetails
    Age Range18+
    Profession RequiredNo
    Job Offer RequiredYes
    Sponsorship RequiredYes
    License / Recognition RequiredNo
    Remote Income AllowedNo
    Business Activity RequiredNo
    Health Insurance RequiredYes
    Proof of Funds RequiredNo
    Can Apply From AbroadYes

    Financial Requirements

    ItemAmount
    Minimum Income€110,000/yearly
    Minimum Salary€110,000/year
    Application Fee€2,459

    Family & Rights

    RightDetails
    Family AllowedYes
    Spouse Can WorkYes
    Children AllowedYes
    Work Rightsfull
    Remote Work RightsNo
    RenewableYes
    Time to Permanent Residency4 years
    Time to Citizenship4 years

    Related Pathways

    Cost of Living

    Sydney
    Single (monthly)€3,140
    Family (monthly)€5,650
    Rent 1BR (center)€2,072
    Groceries€785
    Transport pass€188
    Melbourne
    Single (monthly)€2,503
    Family (monthly)€4,800
    Rent 1BR (center)€1,475
    Groceries€626
    Transport pass€150
    Brisbane
    Single (monthly)€2,448
    Family (monthly)€4,550
    Rent 1BR (center)€1,565
    Groceries€612
    Transport pass€147

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)?

    Permanent visa for exceptional talent. AUD $183,100/year income threshold. 4,300 places. Replaced Global Talent visa. Priority processing.

    Who is the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) best for?

    This pathway is best suited for: Mid-career professionals with a job offer and relevant qualifications.

    Who should not apply for the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)?

    This pathway is not ideal for: Freelancers without employer sponsorship or those without recognised qualifications.

    What are the financial requirements for the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)?

    Applicants need minimum income of €110,000/yearly, minimum salary of €110,000/year. Additional costs may include the application fee and relocation expenses.

    How long does it take to process the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)?

    Processing typically takes 90 to 180 days. Times may vary based on nationality, completeness of documentation, and current processing volumes.

    Can I bring my family on the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)?

    Yes, this pathway allows family members including dependents. Your spouse may also be eligible to work.

    Can the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) lead to permanent residency or citizenship?

    Yes. Holders of this visa can work toward permanent residency in approximately 4 years and citizenship in approximately 4 years, subject to meeting residence and other conditions.

    What are the known issues with the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)?

    Known issues and warnings: Must earn/demonstrate potential to earn AUD $183,100/yr (~€110,000). 4,300 places in 2025-26. Exceptional talent required.. We recommend checking the official source for the latest updates.

    Are there alternative pathways to Australia?

    Yes. Australia offers 16 other immigration pathways. Compare all options on our Australia country page.

    What is the cost of living in Australia?

    Monthly costs for a single person in city center: Sydney: €3,140/month; Melbourne: €2,503/month; Brisbane: €2,448/month. These include rent, groceries, transport, and utilities.

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    Official source: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/national-innov