Australian Immigration Daily News

The Migration Amendment (National Innovation Visa) Regulations 2024 came into effect on 6 December 2024, marking a significant development in Australia’s skilled migration framework. This amendment aims to enhance Australia’s ability to attract exceptional global talent and align the migration program with the nation’s economic priorities.

Key Changes:

• The Subclass 858 (Global Talent) visa has been renamed the Subclass 858 (National Innovation) visa to better reflect its purpose and focus.
• Applications are now by invitation only, ensuring a targeted and streamlined process for identifying and approving highly skilled individuals.
• Applicants must demonstrate the same internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievements as outlined in their invitation letter.
• The role of the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy for Global Business and Talent Attraction has been removed, as it was underutilised since its introduction.

Purpose and Impact:
The National Innovation Visa is designed to attract individuals with exceptional skills and achievements in fields critical to Australia’s economic growth, including technology, science, and the arts. It supports the Government’s broader Migration Strategy by prioritising talent that can significantly contribute to productivity and innovation.

Transitional Arrangements:
Applications for the Global Talent visa submitted prior to 6 December 2024 will be assessed under the previous framework. The new regulations will apply exclusively to applications made from the commencement date.

This change represents a strategic refinement of Australia’s migration program, reinforcing its commitment to fostering a globally competitive workforce while addressing emerging economic priorities.

Source: Migration-Amendment-National-Innovation-Visa-Regulations-2024.pdf and Migration-Amendment-National-Innovation-Visa-Regulations-2024-Explanatory-Statement.pdf