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National Innovation Visa

The National Innovation Visa provides a special pathway for those who want to contribute to innovation in Australia. It is a new addition to the existing visa system, with a focus on high-performing entrepreneurs, key investors, and international researchers who aim to bring significant value to the Australian economy. As a bridge to Australia’s future, it supports the growth of pioneering businesses and the advancement of cutting-edge research.

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What is the National Innovation Visa in Australia?

The Australian National Innovation Visa is a program for the attraction and retention of some of the world’s best talent in entrepreneurship, investment, and research. This visa will add fresh talent to the innovative landscape of Australia by facilitating entry into the country of high-performing people who would be able to contribute much toward the economic and technological progress of the country.

It incorporates three important streams, including high-performing entrepreneurs with proven records of business success, major investors ready to invest substantial amounts in the development of an Australian enterprise, and global researchers who have made significant research contributions. The visa streamlines the process for these candidates to establish or expand ventures in Australia.

The National Innovation Visa will provide an environment in which innovation can flourish, through the development of cutting-edge industries and strengthening Australia’s status in terms of global innovation.

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Contact our expert lawyers today to get ready for the National Innovation Visa launching in late 2024!

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National Innovation Visa Requirements in Australia

The National Innovation Visa has certain requirements for each stream that the applicant must meet. These visa requirements are very specific and focused on ensuring that only the most deserving candidates get into Australia to contribute towards innovation in the finest possible manner.

High-Performing Entrepreneurs

  • Applicants must provide evidence that proves a track record in business, and innovation. This involves documented achievements and metrics of business growth.
  • A detailed and viable business plan for carrying on business in Australia has to be provided. It has to indicate how the business can affect or potentially affect the Australian economy.
  • Must demonstrate the required financial capacity to conduct business operations and meet the related initial costs in Australia.

Major Investors

  • An applicant is required to commit to a significant amount of investment in Australian businesses or industries. This commitment should be proven with proper documents.
  • Proof that the funds are available and there is financial stability, including bank statements and investment agreements.
  • Must show a clearly stated plan on how the investment will benefit Australian enterprises or sectors.

Global Researchers

  • Applicants must hold a strong record of research contributions, peer-reviewed publications, or notable research projects. Evidence of impact and recognition in their field is required
  • Must provide a detailed plan showing the research activities to be conducted in Australia and their potential benefits to the Australian research community.
  • Proper academic qualifications should be accompanied by credentials and research experience, with relevant references.

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What Other Programs Will Replace the National Innovation Visa

The introduction of the National Innovation Visa will see the replacement of several visa programs currently in place. This change is building a new, more focused way to bring in global talent and investment programs affected by this change include:

Business Innovation and Investment Visa

The Business Innovation and Investment Visa is being replaced by the new National Innovation Visa. This was one of the older visas, focused on entrepreneurs and investors, but without the streamlined approach of today. This visa much better tailors a pathway to ensure applicants contribute effectively to Australia's innovation sector and economic growth.

Distinguished Talent Visa

Substitution will also be made for the Distinguished Talent Visa, which was designed to attract people of exceptional skill. The National Innovation Visa will cover many of those same elements but focus much more on innovation and how it affects the economy of Australia. This movement is pointed toward the strategic objectives of Australia in trying to enhance global talent in key areas.

Global Talent Visa

While the current Global Talent Visa would be replaced by a new National Innovation Visa, it would introduce additional streams for specific sectors and roles. The new visa will fill the gaps with additional, more tailored streams for entrepreneurs, investors, and researchers to be introduced, greatly improving Australia's ability to attract a diverse range of innovative talent.

How Can We Help You with the National Innovation Visa?

Navigating the National Innovation Visa application process can be challenging; however, our experts are here to help. We will provide comprehensive support, catering to the requirements of each applicant, to guarantee smooth and successful applications. Here is how we can help you with this:

Expert Consultation

Our team of visa lawyers provides individual consultations to choose the most appropriate stream of the National Innovation Visa, considering your circumstances. We assess your qualifications and goals against that strategic advice to optimize your application for the highest opportunity for success.

Document Preparation

We assist in the preparation of all the documentation required while applying for a visa. Our team shall organize this, from the collection of evidence to the checking for accuracy and completeness, to avoid possible common mistakes and delays and to make sure that your submission passes all the checks.

Application Support

We will guide you from the initial submission of the application through liaison with the immigration authorities in all stages of your application. Our support includes tracking the progress of your application, responding to any requests for additional information, and guiding you with any procedural matters to ensure that your application runs smoothly.

Compliance and Strategy

Our team assists in understanding and meeting visa conditions and requirements while developing a strategic plan tailored to specific criteria. We offer practical advice aligned with Australian immigration policies, creating a roadmap for compliance and advising on necessary adjustments for business or research plans to ensure a strong visa application.

Post-Visa Assistance

After your visa is granted, we will provide ongoing support to help you settle in Australia. This includes guidance on compliance with visa conditions, integration into the Australian business environment, and any additional services you may need to ensure a smooth transition and successful establishment.

FAQs on National Innovation Visa

The National Innovation Visa is an Australian visa targeting high-performing entrepreneurs, major investors, and global researchers to facilitate innovation and economic growth. It assists such people to establish or expand ventures within Australia, thereby fostering the nation’s growth in technology and business.

As announced by the Australian Government, The National Innovation Visa will replace the Global Talent Visa from late 2024. It aims to attract highly talented people to drive growth in Australia’s economy.

Yes, the Global Talent Visa will now be replaced by the National Innovation Visa in late 2024. However, you can apply for this visa, as it is still open for applications and will be permanently closed for applications in late 2024.

A number of major components of a National Innovation Policy would be support for research and development, funding of high-growth startups, incentivizing investment in innovation, and facilitating industry-academia linkages. The enabling policy framework would provide a roadmap for technological advancement and economic development.

To be eligible for the National Innovation Visa, you would have to meet the specific criteria set out in respect of your stream, that is, having an overall good business record of success, making a significant investment, or making significant achievements in research. Detailed documentation must also be provided along with other requirements, both financial and operational.

In most instances, the National Innovation Visa requires you to include a skills assessment in your Expression of Interest (EOI). The test authenticates your qualifications and work experience in relation to the visa stream to which you apply, guaranteeing eligibility for a visa.

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Book a consultation

Our expert migration lawyers offer paid consultations to suit your needs—choose a quick 15-minute session for general advice or a comprehensive 45-minute session for in-depth discussion and tailored guidance.

Preliminary Migration Law Consultation

Comprehensive Migration Law Consultation

Book a consultation

Our expert migration lawyers offer paid consultations to suit your needs—choose a quick 15-minute session for general advice or a comprehensive 45-minute session for in-depth discussion and tailored guidance.

Preliminary Migration Law Consultation

Comprehensive Migration Law Consultation