The recent introduction of the fast-tracked Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858) is designed to attract the world’s best minds to Australia. Through this new venture, the Government is keen to lift the quality of technological exports and drive strong economic growth.

With migration to other countries being uncertain, there has never been a better time to consider moving to Australia, where your expert opinion matters. If you are a high achiever or researcher, or perhaps with great ideas for innovation and growing business in Australia, this is a suitable visa stream for you.

Learn about this exciting initiative; if you are eligible and how to apply.

Why Australia is looking for global talent

The Government believes that the future is based on innovation, research, and development in certain sectors of expertise. From this, the Global Talent Program (GTP) was born, to improve Australia’s competitive edge on the world stage, creating more sustainable jobs, and making it easier for businesses to invest and grow. If you believe that you have what it takes to drive this type of growth, Australia wants you.

The Global Talent Program (GTP)

This program is the driver of the Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858), where exceptional individuals in certain sectors of expertise are given a priority, accelerated pathway to permanent residency, either by invitation or submitting an expression of interest.

As Australia shifts its focus towards attracting the best and brightest, the 2020-2021 Skilled Migration Program has allowed 15,000 places for the GTP, up from the original 5,000.

The Global Talent Employer Sponsored (GTES) Program

Through this program, the Government is making it easier for local businesses to sponsor talented individuals using a Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482), if they can demonstrate that another Skilled Visa program cannot be used to fill this position.

By transferring their skills and knowledge to Australian workers, this can help businesses to grow by creating new jobs.

There are 2 streams to the GTES Program: The Established Business Stream and Startup Stream.

Target Sectors for the GTP

Do you have valuable skills, training, or qualifications in the following industries?

  • Resources

  • Agri-food and AgTech

  • Energy

  • Health Industries

  • Defence, Advanced Manufacturing and Space

  • Circular Economy

  • DigiTech

  • Infrastructure and Tourism

  • Financial Services and FinTech

  • Education​

Global Talent Visa (subclass 858) requirements and cost

You can obtain this visa through 2 pathways, either the Global Talent Program or Distinguished Talent. If you fall into one of the target sectors, then you are applying through the Global Talent Program pathway. This visa allows a person to live, work and study in Australia permanently, and costs AUD $4110. To be eligible, you must:

  • Be nominated: By an Australian resident/permanent resident, eligible New Zealand citizen or a nationally renowned or peak Australian organisation in your area of expertise.

  • Demonstrate excellence in your field: Be prominent and have superior abilities compared to others. Be considered as an exceptional contributor to your field worldwide for the past 2 years. Demonstrate that your contribution can help raise Australia’s reputation or be of economic, social or cultural benefit. Be able to produce evidence that you will be able to attract a salary in excess of AUD $153600, such as your current contract or payslips, or job offers outlining remuneration.

  • Be 18-55 years of age: Unless you demonstrate exceptional talent.

  • Obtain a “Functional English” score: In proficiency testing, or pay a second instalment charge of AUD $4890.

  • Have the following existing visas: If you are outside Australia, you don’t need to hold an existing visa. Have held a Subclass 491 or Subclass 494 visa for at least 3 years, if you are currently holding either. If you are in Australia when you apply, you must hold either a substantive visa, Bridging visa A – BVA - (subclass 010), Bridging visa B – BVB – (subclass 020) or Bridging visa C – BVC – (subclass 030). Not had a previous visa cancellation or application refused.

Student eligibility for the Global Talent Visa

If you can fulfil the Visa conditions, and have expertise in the target sectors, you should consider applying, even if you are still studying or have recently finished your degree.

For students who are currently completing or hold a PhD

  • Be within 6 months of submitting your PhD thesis or completed your PhD within the past 3 years

  • Demonstrate that your research is internationally recognised, and will be an asset to the Australian community

For students who hold Bachelor (Honours) or Masters (WAM above 80) degrees- You must fulfil all of the above criteria, as well as show evidence of:

  • Publications in international journals and media outlets

  • Holding senior roles, international memberships or patents

  • Receiving professional awards

How to apply for the Global Talent Visa Program

Prepare and attach supporting documents- You will need:

  • A nomination by an eligible individual or organisation with a national reputation in your field

  • Supporting documents to show evidence of your achievements.

Submit and expression of interest (EOI) Through the Global Talent contact form.

Apply for the visa through ImmiAccount: If you are successful, you will be contacted, receive an Invitation reference identifier and Invitation code, and then be able to lodge a Global Talent Subclass 858 visa application through ImmiAccount. If your application is unsuccessful, you can still apply for another visa.

Tips for a successful GTP application

As the GTP is very competitive, it is important to make sure that your application stands out above the rest. Here are some ideas:

  • Avoid submitting your expression of interest multiple times- This will clog the system and potentially delay the processing of your application.

  • Avoid using technical language and jargon - Being clear, concise and easy to understand will help you to better convey your message as the assessment panel may not have the same background as you.

  • Double check you have all the documents - By submitting all the information together, you will come across as prepared and organised, rather than being confusing with parts missing.

Speak to an IDP Migration Agent - At IDP, our licensed migration agents are experts in helping international students like you to reach your fullest potential. By combining our extensive industry knowledge, and an understanding of how your skills, qualifications, research and body of work can help to create innovation in Australia, we can help you to work out your eligibility for the GTP. Contact IDP today for advice from our experienced migration agents.