Quantum computing, AI, cyber
Advanced computing sectors. Research, commercial, and applied roles all qualify at senior levels.
Subclass 858 · Direct PR · No Age Cap · No Points Test
The 858 is Australia's fast track for exceptional talent.
858 applications are handled by Sourabh Aggarwal, Gurjeev Bhalla, and Brian Park from Brisbane, Darwin, and Gold Coast. Direct permanent residency. No skilled migration points test. No employer sponsorship required. But it is not for everyone. Only applicants with genuinely international-level achievements in priority sectors qualify. Here is who that means and what the application looks like.
Priority sectors
Where 858 fits.
Global Talent focuses on sectors critical to Australia's future economic capability.
Advanced manufacturing and space
Industrial-scale manufacturing leadership. Space technology, satellites, aerospace engineering.
Clean energy and resources
Hydrogen, renewables, battery technology, critical minerals processing.
Medical technology, agtech, fintech
Medical devices, biotechnology, agricultural technology, financial technology innovation.
Who qualifies
Internationally recognised. Not just good.
858 applicants must demonstrate global-level standing, not domestic success alone.
International recognitionAwards, publications, leadership at global firms, patents of international significance. Generic professional success is not enough.
High income earning capacityMost applicants earn at or above a high-income threshold (currently around AUD $162,000). Demonstrates market validation of talent.
Australian nominatorA nominator who is an Australian citizen or permanent resident, an Australian organisation, or a PR. Must have national reputation in the same field.
Benefit to AustraliaThe applicant must be able to benefit Australia through their talent, experience, or contribution to their field.
The process
Three stages.
Global Talent operates through a structured Expression of Interest process.
Expression of Interest
Submit detailed EOI with evidence of international recognition, nominator details, and priority sector relevance.
Assessment and invitation
Department assesses. Invitation issued for strong profiles. No guarantee of invitation.
Visa application
Formal 858 application lodged with full evidence. Processing typically 6-12 months after invitation.
Global Talent has no upper age limit.
Unlike skilled and employer sponsored pathways with 45 or 45-plus-exemption age caps, Global Talent 858 has no upper age limit. Senior professionals and established leaders in priority sectors can use this pathway where skilled migration is not available.
Common questions
The questions we hear most.
For Global Talent applications, book with Sourabh Aggarwal.
What counts as international recognition?
Awards of international standing, publications in top-tier journals, patents of international commercial application, leadership roles at global organisations. Case-by-case assessment.
Do I need an Australian job offer?
No. Unlike employer sponsorship, Global Talent does not require a specific job offer. Focus is on talent and contribution.
Can I include family on 858?
Yes. Partner and dependent children can be included on the same application.
What if I do not meet the income threshold?
Income is strong evidence but not the sole criterion. Lower-income applicants with exceptional non-commercial recognition can sometimes qualify.
Some information on this page has been sourced from the Department of Home Affairs and has been interpreted and approved by Principal Migration Agent Sourabh Aggarwal (MARN 1462159). Last reviewed: May 2026.