National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858): A Powerful PR Pathway for Entrepreneurs & Innovative Investors

📌Published by Nationwide Migration & Education
👩‍💼Led by Registered Migration Agent Suman Dua (MARN: 1800859)

Australia has introduced the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) to attract exceptionally talented individuals who can drive innovation, productivity, and long-term economic growth. This is a direct permanent residency visa, designed for global leaders and emerging leaders whose work will benefit Australia’s future prosperity.

The visa targets high-impact individuals across several categories, including global researchers, entrepreneurs, innovative investors, athletes and creatives. While the visa is administered by the Department of Home Affairs, state and territory nomination plays a critical role in strengthening an applicant’s profile.

One of the most structured and commercially focused nomination pathways is offered by Queensland, particularly for entrepreneurs and innovative investors.

Understanding the Role of the Department of Home Affairs

From a federal perspective, the Department of Home Affairs is looking for clear evidence of innovation, leadership, and economic contribution. For business-focused applicants, this includes:

• Entrepreneurial activity leading to commercialisation in Australia

• Innovative investment activity with a proven track record

• Strong links to recognised innovation ecosystems, hubs, or government-backed initiatives

Queensland Nomination: The Two Key Business Streams

Queensland has clearly defined guidelines for nominating candidates under the National Innovation Visa, with two primary business-focused pathways.

1. Entrepreneur Stream (Minimum $1 Million)

This stream is designed for established or emerging entrepreneurs who are ready to commercialise or expand an innovative product or service in Queensland.

Queensland looks for applicants who:

• Have a minimum investment capacity of $1 million

• Are committed to establishing or scaling operations in Queensland

• Can demonstrate operational readiness and commercial traction

Typical evidence may include:

• Employment contracts for Queensland-based staff

• MOUs, joint ventures, or partnerships with Queensland entities

• Engagement with Queensland innovation hubs or accelerator programs

• Funds already spent on business setup, feasibility studies, licensing, or market research

• Secured funding (self-funded, venture capital, institutional investors, or grants)

• A clear plan to deploy at least $1 million in Queensland within two years of visa grant

This pathway is particularly suitable for founders, scale-up entrepreneurs, and innovation-led business owners looking for permanent residency without points testing 4300 places.

2. Innovative Investor Stream (Minimum $5 Million)

This stream is aimed at high-net-worth investors with a proven track record of supporting innovative ventures.

Queensland is seeking investors who:

• Have an established history of investing in innovation

• Can deploy a minimum of $5 million into Queensland’s innovation ecosystem

• Are prepared to invest for at least two years

Accepted investment structures may include:

• Venture capital and private equity

• Research and development investments

• Co-investments and asset management structures

• Government-linked investment vehicles

Evidence may include:

• Documented innovative investments and successful exits

• Board or leadership roles in innovative companies

• Investment returns, IPOs, acquisitions, or major funding rounds

• Third-party endorsements from venture capital firms or government-backed funds

Candidates investing into Tier One priority sectors (such as critical technologies, renewables, and health industries) or Tier Two sectors (including AgTech, FinTech, infrastructure, and education) are particularly well regarded.

Why This Visa Matters

The National Innovation Visa represents a significant shift away from traditional business migration models. There is no points test, no age limit, and no provisional stage. Instead, the focus is on real economic impact, innovation, and leadership.

For the right entrepreneur or investor, this is one of the most direct and strategic pathways to Australian permanent residency currently available.

The National Innovation Visa is highly selective, and success depends on how well your business profile, investment strategy, and Queensland value proposition are positioned.

If you are:

• An entrepreneur planning to invest or expand in Queensland, or

• An innovative investor looking for a permanent residency pathway

I can assist with:

• Strategic eligibility assessment

• Queensland nomination positioning

• ROI preparation and documentation strategy

• End-to-end visa guidance

If this pathway is of interest, feel free to get in touch with us directly to discuss whether the National Innovation Visa is suitable for your circumstances.