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The Global Talent Visa continues to be the visa everyone wants.

And why wouldn’t it be?

With fast processing, low costs, and a direct pathway to permanent residence in Australia, there are few immigration options that can compare. It isn’t easy to get though; the Global Talent Visa is for highly skilled applicants in specific target sectors. Until now, the Australian Government had provided very little information as to who would and would not qualify for the GTV, but this month the Government has released examples of exceptional and strong candidates (who were granted Global Talent Visa 858) and categories of professionals that would usually not be eligible.

Click here to learn the criteria for the Global Talent Visa

Priority status will be given to applicants who work in a designated sector. These sectors are currently:

• Resources;
• Agri-food and AgTech;
• Energy;
• Health industries;
• Defence, Advanced Manufacturing and Space;
• Circular economy;
• Digitech;
• Infrastructure and tourism;
• Financial services and FinTech; and
• Education

Let’s take a look at the successful candidates from each sector. You may notice some of the sectors (such as Defence, Advanced manufacturing and Space) have been broken down into multiple separate categories.)

Resources

EXCEPTIONAL CANDIDATES

Managing director of a technology and innovation unit of an international mining corporation with a global track record in the delivery of safe, cost effective, and complex multi-billion dollar projects.

STRONG CANDIDATES

Executive with extensive experience in subsea system development, execution and operation for a top-tier oil and gas company.

NOT USUALLY ELIGIBLE

• Site managers
• Engineers and mechanics
• Technicians and construction workers

AgriFood and AgTech

EXCEPTIONAL CANDIDATES

Director of a world-renowned research centre for livestock genetic engineering with proven results in applying research to improve the quality, productivity and efficiency across the industry.

STRONG CANDIDATES

Highly regarded and cited post-doctoral researcher in the field of robotics and automations in agriculture, with ongoing industry collaborations. 

NOT USUALLY ELIGIBLE

The following experience or professions would not usually meet the parameters of the program:

• Farmers and agricultural technicians 
• Food safety managers 
• Chefs and cooks

Clean Energy and Renewables

EXCEPTIONAL CANDIDATES

Founder and CEO of an internationally acclaimed start-up in the research and manufacturing of innovative clean technology for heating, ventilation and air conditioning.

STRONG CANDIDATES

Senior energy transformation engineering specialist in devising solutions for new energy technologies.

Executive with expertise in the development and delivery of large energy projects.

NOT USUALLY ELIGIBLE

The following experience or professions would not usually meet the parameters of the program:

• Technicians and construction workers
• Distribution and sales representatives
• Junior or mid-level power plant or mine operations managers

Health Industries

EXCEPTIONAL CANDIDATES

Pharmaceutical executive and founder of a multi-million dollar global company dedicated to accelerating clinical trial processes by utilising a novel e-platform to track patient data. 

Renowned infectious diseases researcher and practitioner of international repute.  

STRONG CANDIDATES

Senior auditory neuroscientist with a track record of research in health technologies, leading the research and design of cochlear implant technology.

Biomedical engineer with expertise in medical application of polymers, biomaterials and delivery platforms.

NOT USUALLY ELIGIBLE

The following experience or professions would not usually meet the parameters of the program:

• General practitioners
• Retail pharmacists
• Dentists
• Physiotherapists
• Nurses
• Veterinarians 
• Aged care workers

Defence

EXCEPTIONAL CANDIDATES

Business director of an international organisation renowned for testing, inspecting and certifying defence vessels and equipment.

STRONG CANDIDATES

Senior technology manager of a globally renowned aeronautical research and development centre leading multiple portfolios on defence products.

NOT USUALLY ELIGIBLE

The following experience or professions would not usually meet the parameters of the program:

• Soldiers and sailors 
• Junior officers

Advanced Manufacturing

EXCEPTIONAL CANDIDATES

A leading researcher in micro and nano electro-mechanical systems that owns multiple patents.

Chief technology officer of an internationally acclaimed manufacturer of sensors for electronic devices in the healthcare, robotics, and digital manufacturing sectors.

STRONG CANDIDATES

Senior data scientist specialising in designing machine learning algorithms and neural network models, with experience in commercialising artificial intelligence projects for automotive and intelligent devices. 

NOT USUALLY ELIGIBLE

The following experience or professions would not usually meet the parameters of the program:

• Engineering technicians 
• Machine operators
• Draftspersons
• Sales and administrative managers

Space

EXCEPTIONAL CANDIDATES

Renowned space industry leader with vast experience specialising in space systems engineering.

Head engineer of avionics and software at a leading rocket company that is developing new orbital launch vehicles and technologies for foreign space agencies.

STRONG CANDIDATES

A space policy specialist with extensive experience collaborating between government and the industry.

Post-doctoral astrophysicist with a sustained record in collaborative research, with a number of space agencies.

NOT USUALLY ELIGIBLE

The following experience or professions would not usually meet the parameters of the program:

• Engineers and mechanics who do not lead ground-breaking projects

Circular Economy

EXCEPTIONAL CANDIDATES

Managing director of a technology and innovation unit of an international mining corporation with a global track record in the delivery of safe, cost effective, and complex multi-billion dollar projects.

STRONG CANDIDATES

Executive with extensive experience in critical mineral development, execution and operation for a top-tier company.

A leading researcher with expertise in heat and mass transfer, phase change and metallurgical transformation in high temperature systems.

NOT USUALLY ELIGIBLE

The following experience or professions would not usually meet the parameters of the program:

• Site managers 
• Engineers and mechanics
• Technicians and construction workers

DigiTech

EXCEPTIONAL CANDIDATES

Founder and/or inventor of deep technology IP associated with digitech.

Expert in human-centred design and design thinking, experienced in designing sites, apps and online optimization strategies for high end IT firms.

Chief Information Security Officer driving intiatives in virtualization, Cloud, Internet of Things and cybersecurity across entire corporations.

STRONG CANDIDATES

Entrepreneur of an award winning video games developer company that has developed a number of original titles target at wide ranging international audiences.

Researcher and expert in software, platforms, game engine and AR/VR/XR tech including exemplary coders.

NOT USUALLY ELIGIBLE

The following experience or professions would not usually meet the parameters of the program:

• Business analysts, developers and ICT consultants without international experience.
• ICT support centre managers.

Infrastructure

EXCEPTIONAL CANDIDATES

Chief operating officer of a national freight company with expertise in large scale and complex interstate railroading operations.

Chief commercial officer of a commercial airline with a global reputation in developing new aviation business models. 

STRONG CANDIDATES

Internationally recognised expert in railway operations, instrumental in the success of multiple large-scale, government led railway and transport infrastructure projects in a number of countries.

Managing director of an innovative company known globally for sports products and infrastructure for international championships including the Olympic Games.

NOT USUALLY ELIGIBLE

The following experience or professions would not usually meet the parameters of the program:

• Engineers
• Mechanics
• Draftspersons

Tourism

EXCEPTIONAL CANDIDATES

Chief commercial officer of a commercial airline with a global reputation in developing new aviation business models.

STRONG CANDIDATES

Managing director of an innovative company known globally for sports events and international championship events.

NOT USUALLY ELIGIBLE

The following experience or professions would not usually meet the parameters of the program:

• Tour guides, travel agents and hospitality workers
• Taxi and rideshare drivers

Financial Services and FinTech

EXCEPTIONAL CANDIDATES

CEO and founder of a digital asset and financial services enterprise, globally recognised for their outstanding innovation through successful application of business models and technology.

STRONG CANDIDATES

Executive of a multinational corporation operating in global financial ICT strategy consulting, artificial intelligence and cloud strategy development, risk and insurance market operations, or global financial services operating models.

NOT USUALLY ELIGIBLE

The following experience or professions would not usually meet the parameters of the program:

• Traditional bankers (except c-suite executives for major financial institutions)
• Retail bankers
• Accountants and account managers
• Financial advisors
• Stockbrokers
• Insurance brokers and sales managers
• Chief financial officers (unless a leader in a priority sector)

Education

EXCEPTIONAL CANDIDATES

An executive with a track record in setting up university centres abroad, with expertise in establishing global collaborations and partnerships across government, academia and research.

Renowned level E academic and winner of prestigious prizes. 

STRONG CANDIDATES

Senior technology manager of a globally renowned aeronautical research and development centre leading multiple portfolios on defence products.

NOT USUALLY ELIGIBLE

The following experience or professions would not usually meet the parameters of the program:

• Researchers and academics at Australian academic levels A to C or their international equivalents, in fields other than education or pedagogy
• School teachers 
• Specialist teachers
• School administration staff

Is This You?

If you fit into any of the above categories, you could be an excellent contender for an Australian Global Talent Visa. Contact Work Visa Lawyers today to see if you have a shot at the country’s most sought after visa.

Author

Chris Johnston, Founder and Principal Lawyer at Work Visa Lawyers

Sources:

https://www.globalaustralia.gov.au

Do you need help?

Our team of experienced Immigration Lawyers and Migration Agents look forward to assisting you with your Australian visa or appeal.

Based in Adelaide South Australia, we provide Australian Immigration advice to people and businesses from all over the world.

If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

(08) 8351 9956 or +61 8 8351 9956 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

You can also subscribe our Facebook: WORK VISA lawyers

Disclaimer

This information is correct at the time of publication but is subject to change without notice.  All information provided on this page is provided for purely educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.  For advice on your situation, please speak with an Immigration Lawyer or a Registered Migration Agent.

An employer-sponsored visa to Australia is one great option for businesses to fill the skills or labour shortage in Australia. For the skilled visa holder, it is a great opportunity to come to Australia either temporarily or permanently. With someone who were in Australia during the pandemic, an employer-sponsored visa 482 can give you pathway to PR 186 visa 

However if you meet the eligibility criteria for it, the Global Talent Visa can be an even more attractive option than an employer-sponsored visa.

This is because of several factors including career flexibility, skills assessments, and age and language requirements.

Nevertheless, each visa stream has its own advantages and disadvantages for both employers and applicants. 

This article will discuss about the positive points of both the global talent visa and the employer sponsorship program.

Read more about the new visa 482 Employer Sponsored short-term to PR in 2022>

Career flexibility - No specific Occupation List for Global Talent Visa 858

Global Talent Visa is not an employer-sponsored visa. As a Global Talent Visa holder, you have the freedom to change jobs or roles, set up your own company or be self-employed. Even if you have to leave your job and be unemployed for some reason (like starting a family) you won't lose your visa.

For some employer-sponsored visas such as the Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (subclass 482) you have to work for the employer who sponsored you unless your occupation is one of the exempt occupations (such as a high-level, specialist medical professionals).

There are also employer-sponsored visas like the Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (RSMS) (subclass 187) visa which require you to work in regional areas. There is no such requirement for the Global Talent Visa.

You can also work in a variety of occupations within your specialisation in designated Target sectors. For employer-sponsored visas, your occupation must be listed in the relevant skilled occupation lists.

No skills assessment for Global Talent Visa 

To be eligible for the Global Talent Visa, you have to :

• Be internationally recognised with evidence of outstanding achievements;
• Be currently prominent in your field of expertise and must provide evidence that you would be an asset to Australia.  You can provide evidence such as industry awards, media articles, research, publications and the like. 

A lot of PHD students have found that Global Talent Visa is their main Permanent Residency pathway without complicating process like General Skilled Migration. Because they can satisfy the part of internationally recognised evidence.

Moreover, you do not have to provide a skills assessment issued by the relevant skills assessing authority for your occupation.

Low English language's requirement for Global Talent Visa

The English language skill required for the Global Talent visa is only “functional English”, that is if you are taking the IELTS test for example, you only need an average band score of at least 4.5 based on the 4 test components. If you or any secondary applicant can not meet the required English language skill, you need to pay the second visa application charge before the visa can be granted.

For the employer-sponsored visa, RSMS (subclass 187) the English language skill required is “competent English” which is, for an IELTS test, getting a score of at least 6 for each of the 4 components.

NO age limit for Global Talent Visa applicants 

Unless an exemption applies, the age limit for the RSMS and the Employer Nominated (subclass 186) visas is 45 years old.

For the Global Talent Visa, there is no age limit but if you are over 55 years old you have to prove that you can bring exceptional economic benefit to Australia.

Faster processing times for Global Talent Visa 

The Global Talent Visa is a fast-tracked pathway to permanent residency, with visas being granted anywhere from 2 months to 4 months. Note though that it may take weeks or even months to get the invitation to apply for the visa.

Generally, however, the processing times for the Global Talent visa are still shorter than the RSMS and the ENS visas.

The current processing time for permanent residence employer-sponsored visas such the RSMS (Direct Entry Stream) is between 35-45 months, and for the ENS (Direct Entry Stream) it is between 6-11 months.

No Cost for Global Talent Visa in terms of sponsorship

While the Global Talent Visa applicant may get a job offer from an Australian organisation, the prospective Australian employer will not incur costs to become an approved sponsor, apply and pay for the nomination and pay the Skilling Australians Fund levy.

In short, if you are an exceptional talent, the Global Talent might be for you.

To check your eligibility, you can take our quick and free Global Talent assessment here.

Employer Sponsorship program and its benefits to employers and applicants

Even though Employer sponsorship program has a specific skilled occupation lists, the list has wide veriety of occupations which Global Talent Visa program does not have such as: Trades occupations (Motor mechanic, Chef, Cook, welder, electrician...), Professional occupations ( marketing specialist, financial broker...) or General practitioner, Hospitality (cafe or restaurant manager)

The big difference that distinguish applicants for global talent visa program from employer sponsorship program applicants is the High Income Threshold currently set at 158,500 AUD. This is a very high salary requirement which most applicants do not meet.

There are also a lot of applicants who have put it the expression of interest in the Global Talent Visa and they are not being considered in a timely manner. 

The processing time of Global Talent Visa program could meet some delay because of its popularity in 2022, it sometimes takes 6 to 12 months to process.

On the other side, Employer Sponsored Visa could be quicker to get someone into Australia and start working for the company. 

 For someone who were in Australia during the pandemic, a new visa 482 short-term pathway to PR 186 visa could be a good option for skilled workers who are finding a way to get 491 nomination.

Read more about new visa 482 changes in 2022 here>

Author:

Rosa Torrefranca, Immigration Lawyer at Work Visa Lawyers

Do you need help?

Our team of experienced Immigration Lawyers and Migration Agents look forward to assisting you with your Australian visa or appeal.

Based in Adelaide South Australia, we provide Australian Immigration advice to people and businesses from all over the world.

If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

(08) 8351 9956 or +61 8 8351 9956 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

You can also subscribe to our Facebook: WORK VISA lawyers

Disclaimer

This information is correct at the time of publication but is subject to change without notice.  All information provided on this page is provided for purely educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.  For advice on your situation, please speak with an Immigration Lawyer or a Registered Migration Agent.

The general key criteria that an EOI must satisfy are well known:

• An applicant must be internationally recognised with evidence of outstanding achievements;
• They must be currently prominent in their field of expertise;
• They must provide evidence that they would be an asset to Australia in their area of expertise;
• They must show that they would have no difficulty obtaining employment in Australia or becoming established in their field;
• They must have a recognised organisation or individual with a national reputation in the same field in Australia nominate them as global talent; and,
• They must earn a salary over the Fair Work High Income Threshold (currently AUD158,600).

However, there’s no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to satisfying those criteria. So, I’ll use the space below to paint a bit of a picture of what, in our experience, a successful applicant typically looks like.

如果您正在考虑全球人才签证（GTI 签证），您必须获得与您相同领域的专业人士的担保。该担保人可以代表您并且向移民局表达您在指定领域中的突出才能。这是全球人才签证GTI流程的关键部分，但经常被忽视。以下干货是关于如何寻找全球人才担保人：

Click here to read this in English

Click here to learn the criteria for the Global Talent Visa

 We have assisted many clients with their Global Talent Visa Expression of Interest (EOI). We understand that some people have already lodged their expressions of interest, but are wondering “How can I make my Global Talent EOI better?” We are passing on some of the tips we have learned along the way.

After lodging your Global Talent Visa Expression of Interest, more information can be provided to support your EOI by emailing it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. If you are sending more information to the Department, be sure to include your name, date of birth and passport number, so that the information can be linked properly.

The ways to improve your expression of interest are linked (necessarily) to the requirements for the Global Talent visa EOI.

This article is regularly updated. Last updated: Friday, 12th January 2024

As a permanent residency visa with relatively short processing times, the Global Talent Visa is as close to the gold standard of Australian visas as you can get. So why is your Expression of Interest (EOI) taking so long?

Click here to learn the criteria for the Global Talent Visa

Applying for the Global Talent Visa is a two-part process. Eligible applicants are required to submit an EOI setting out how they fulfil the eligibility criteria and, if they receive an invitation to apply for a visa, they can then submit an application. The processing of the EOIs used to be from a few days to 3 months if prioritised.While The processing times have lengthened in the last few months and, the visa applications themselves are still being processed in a matter of weeks anywhere between 6-11 months (as of January 2024).

Consideration of EOIs, on the other hand, has slowed substantially in the last year. Due to the overwhelming popularity of the Global Talent visa, the Department is receiving far more EOIs than they can process quickly. As of the start of September 2021 the Department advised that they are still considering EOIs received in October 2020 – a backlog of around 11 months. However, the processing times of the EOI has improved and as of the start of January 2024, the EOIs being considered are those submitted in September 2023. 

Those who did not provide sufficient information and documentation may have their applications delayed.

Historically, EOIs for certain sectors have been processed faster than others – financial services and FinTech being the fastest at around 2 months and AgriTech the slowest at about 5-6 months. However, we are currently seeing a slowdown across all sectors. Based on what we are seeing, EOIs for applicants with a strong salary (>AUD250,000) are being decided much faster than those with a salary only marginally higher than the Fair Work High Income Threshold (currently, AUD167,500).

The Global Talent visa is still the best visa option available for eligible applicants and the sooner you get your EOI submitted the sooner it will be decided upon.

You can fill in your details in our online form here for a free assessment of your prospects of receiving an EOI for the Global Talent visa.

Read more about the Global Talent Visa Program here.

Do you need help?

Our team of experienced Immigration Lawyers and Migration Agents look forward to assisting you with your Australian visa or appeal.

Based in Adelaide South Australia, we provide Australian Immigration advice to people and businesses from all over the world.

If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

(08) 8351 9956 or +61 8 8351 9956 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

You can also subscribe to our TikTok.  

Disclaimer

This information is correct at the time of publication but is subject to change without notice. All information provided on this page is provided for purely educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. For advice on your situation, please speak with an Immigration Lawyer or a Registered Migration Agent.

This article is updated regularly. Last updated: Friday, 5th January 2024

At Work Visa Lawyers, we understand that the Government’s processing times are important to your expectations and how you plan your life. Unfortunately, as with all visa processes, these are difficult to predict and are never guaranteed. We write about our experiences across many Global Talent visa applications, to help you to gain an understanding of the processing times which might lie ahead if you choose to pursue a Global Talent visa.

If you're an engineer, getting a nominator just got easier! In positive news for engineers with who fit the Global Talent visa criteria, Engineers Australia has been accepted as a certified nominating organisation for the Global Talent visa program. This means engineers who could not find a suitable nominator for the Global Talent visa can now apply to EA for a nominator.

If you are looking at the Global Talent visa (GTI visa) you must be nominated by a senior professional in your field. This person will vouch for you and can speak on your behalf about how your talent can bring benefit to Australia. This is a key part of the Global Talent visa process but one that is often overlooked. Here are our tips on how to find a Global Talent nominator.

Click here for Global Talent visa criteria

The Global Talent Visa is the Australian Government’s latest passion project with the nation more enthusiastic than ever to attract high-value enterprises and talented individuals to its shores.  A new Taskforce has been created to locate and prioritise high talent individuals, and a new ministerial direction sets out which areas of expertise Australia is looking for.

We are receiving a lot of questions regarding the scope of the sectors for the Global Talent Independent visa. As there is no set occupation list for the GTI visa, many potential candidates do not know whether their occupations will fall within one of the seven target sectors.

As of 17 December 2020, Direction 89 lists priority sectors as:

• Resources
• Agri-food and AgTech
• Energy
• Health industries
• Defence, advanced manufacturing and space
• Circular economy
• DigiTech
• Infrastructure and tourism
• Financial services and FinTech
• Education​

Please note this blog was written prior to 17 December 2020.

This is an older article. Click here to learn the criteria for the Global Talent Visa

The most common areas of interest are:

1. Quantum Information, Advanced Digital, Data Science and ICT
2. FinTech
3. Cyber Security
4. MedTech
5. Energy and Mining Technology

There seems to be a reasonable amount of confusion regarding what is included in each sector. The key focus of the GTI is to attract high-tech occupations within the target sectors.

While we aim to provide some clarity on this, there is no defined edge to the target sectors.

Unlike GSM & employer-sponsored programs, the GTI process is not based on an occupation list. 

It is also important to keep in mind that all applicants need to meet the other requirements for the Global Talent Independent Programs; such as:

• recognised internationally
• prominent in your target sector
• would be an asset to Australia
• would not have difficulty finding work in Australia in your field
• are nominated by an Australian organisation or individual, who is also prominent in the same field
• earn or are likely to earn at least AUD153,600 (can be shown through a range of different ways)

Ultimately, the only way to concretely determine if your background is going to be accepted into the program is by submitting an expression of interest.

To learn more about the Australian Global Talent program, click here.

Quantum Information, Advanced Digital, Data Science and ICT

This is the largest target sector for GTI, making up 28% of the 2019-2020 program year. 

The Global Talent Independent visa program is intended to attract “high-tech” professionals from a range of different fields. Most of those professionals in other fields (especially FinTech; MedTech & Cyber Security) also fall within this general ICT field.

ICT

The following occupations might be considered under this sector, as they are ICT occupations:

• 261111 ICT Business Analyst
• 261313 Software Engineer
• 261312 Developer Programmer
• 135111 Chief Information Officer
• 135112 ICT Project Manager
• 263111 Computer Network and Systems Engineer
• 263112 Network Administrator
• 263211 ICT Quality Assurance Engineer

We have also previously received an invitation for a professional with a background as 223211 ICT Trainer.

We note that being in the target sector is one of the requirements, but it is important that you are also able to meet the other requirements of the program. 

Not all professionals in these occupations will be able to meet the salary or academic requirements. 

Quantum Information, Advanced Digital and Data Science

There are a few occupations which we think may fall into these fields, but might not fit into ICT.

It is possible that occupations such as the following may be relevant:

• 224112 Mathematician
• 224113 Statistician
• 234514 Biotechnologist
• Actuary

Ultimately, it is important that you have an established background in the claimed field. A mathematics professor who has had no engagement with Data Science is unlikely to be suited to the Global Talent Independent visa program.

While these occupations may be relevant, it is also important to keep in mind the other requirements of the Global Talent Independent Visa Program. You need to be able to show that you are likely to attract a salary of at least AUD153,600 in Australia. This can be shown in a range of ways, but means that an entry level software programmer is unlikely to be successful through the GTI visa program. If that’s you, you may have other options under one of Australia’s other skilled migration programs or an employer-sponsored visa.

Click here to learn more about finding an Australian nominator in this sector.

FinTech: Financial Technology

There are a range of professionals who contribute to the success of a financial technology team.

Some common roles in the FinTech industry are: 

• 261312 Developer Programmer
• 261313 Software Engineer
• Managers working in the FinTech industry
• Project Managers overseeing FinTech projects within a larger business
• Consultants
• Chief Technology Officers
• Chief Data Officers

The FinTech space in Australia is made up of different players, ranging from the big banks to fresh startups. Some recent names in the industry are: Xinja, UP, Wisr, Huddle Insurance and AirWallex 

Cyber Security

Cyber Security is another one of the target sectors for the GTI visa program.

Some occupations in the Cyber Security field might include:

• 262112 ICT Security Specialist
• Security Software Developer
• Information Security Analyst
• Forensics Analyst
• Penetration Tester
• Ethical Hacker

Click here to learn more about finding an Australian nominator in this sector.

MedTech: Medical Technology

Medical technology involves innovative instruments that are used to save and improve people’s lives by improving following activities:  

• Disease diagnosis; prevention; disease monitoring and surveillance; disease treatment & alleviation.
• Injury diagnosis; injury monitoring and surveillance; injury treatment & alleviation & compensation for an injury.
• Clean and destroy bacteria on medical devices
• Using in-vitro examination of specimens derived from the human body to provide information for medical or diagnostic purposes.

Those working in the development of medical devices may be eligible for a GTI visa under MedTech. MedTech can span fields within medical technology including dental, diagnostic imaging and orthopaedic implants.

Examples of such occupations may include:

• 251912 Orthotist or Prosthetist designing new technology
• 234611 Medical Laboratory Scientist
• Engineer working in research, maintenance and development of medical devices
• Programmer working in medical software
• Statistician working in MedTech

Energy and Mining Technology

Australia has a rich and varied history of energy, mining and resources industries. There is room for further development in mining equipment, technology and services (METS).

Global talents are being sought who can bring skills to Australia to push the METS industry even further.

We also understand there is a focus on new energy technologies, which could include renewable energy developments that would help with climate change. 

Potential occupations for this target sector are:

• 233611 Mining Engineer
• 233612 Petroleum Engineer
• Mud Engineer
• Petrophysical Engineer
• Process Engineer (Mining)

While we have provided examples of occupations that could fall within these target sectors, this list is neither exhaustive of all the possible occupations for a GTI visa nor a guarantee that an applicant with that occupation will be successful. Eligibility for the GTI visa will be dependent on the applicant’s personal circumstances including skills, work experience, qualifications and ability to attract a salary of at least AUD 153,600.

If your occupation is not listed here but you think you may be eligible, please contact us for a preliminary assessment of your eligibility. 

Do you need help?

Our team of experienced Immigration Lawyers and Migration Agents look forward to assisting you with your Australian visa or appeal.

Based in Adelaide South Australia, we provide Australian Immigration advice to people and businesses from all over the world.

If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

(08) 8351 9956 or +61 8 8351 9956 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Sources:

https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/services/global-talent-distinguished-talent-visas/global-talent-independent-visa.html

https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/services/global-talent-distinguished-talent-visas.html

https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/working-in-australia/visas-for-innovation/global-talent-independent-program

https://fintechaustralia.org.au/

https://www.mtaa.org.au/

With news of China’s new laws for Hong Kong amid riots in Hong Kong, the Australian Government has acted to extend additional visas to Hong Kong passport holders to remain in Australia. These new measures are designed as a part of Australia’s overall skilled visa program, attracting and retaining talent from around the world.

The Global Talent Independent (GTI) visa is an easy pathway to Australian permanent residency for those that can qualify. Often, potential GTI applicants will have met all of the requirements but are unable to find a nominator. One of the most common barriers that GTI applicants may encounter, especially offshore applicants, is locating an Australian person or organisation to nominate them. As the national body for the ICT sector, the Australian Computer Society (ACS) is willing to provide nominations for GTI applicants. 

Click here to learn the criteria for the Global Talent Visa

One of the requirements of a GTI visa is for the applicant to be nominated by an Australian person or organisation who has a national reputation in the same field as the applicant. For many offshore GTI applicants, this requirement may be difficult especially when they have not had the chance to network with people in their field.

The Australian Computer Society (ACS) has recently indicated that they will be providing nominations for some applicants for the GTI visa program.

They are focused on the following target sectors:

• Cyber Security
• Quantum Information
• Advanced Digital
• Data Science 
• ICT

The cost for this service is currently set at AUD $500, to account for time spent assessing the candidate.

They are open to nominating applicants who are both overseas or in Australia.

ACS Nomination Process

Step 1: Lodge an Expression of Interest with the Department of Home Affairs.

Step 2: If eligible, the Department of Home Affairs will provide a Global Talent Identifier number.

Step 3: Send your CV to ACS with an explanation of your relevant qualifications, skills and experience in one of the sectors above.

Step 4: If suitable, ACS will progress your application and ask for the nomination fee. Further information may be requested. You may need to attend an interview with ACS.

Step 5: ACS will complete the nomination form and provide you with a nomination letter for the visa application.

The ACS will be nominating candidates who can show they will be an asset to their industry in Australia. This will be an advocacy driven process, in a similar way to the GTI visa program as a whole. Therefore it is important that any submissions for a nomination from ACS will demonstrate the applicant's skills and expertise in their relevant field.

How can Work Visa Lawyers help?

Work Visa Lawyers can help you with all steps in the Global Talent visa application process, including with applications for nomination from the ACS.

Our team of experienced Immigration Lawyers and Migration Agents look forward to assisting you with your Australian visa or appeal.

Contact us on (08) 8351 9956 or +61 8 8351 9956 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Book an appointment with one of our experienced Immigration Lawyers and Registered Migration Agents here.

As Australia tries to restart the economy post-pandemic, the Morrison government will reset the permanent migration cap in its October budget. Acting Immigration Minister Alan Tudge wants to use the newly launched Global Talent Independent program to attract 5,000 of the world’s most talented high-tech migrants each year, with fast-tracking to Australian permanent residency.

This is an older article. Click here to learn the criteria for the Global Talent Visa

The Australian Government recently announced three new visas for innovation:

1. Global Talent Independent (GTI)
2. Global Talent Employer Sponsored (GTES)
3. Supporting Innovation in South Australia (SISA)

Why the Global Talent Independent Visa?

Launched in November 2019, the Global Talent Independent program aims to attract highly-talented candidates who are at the top of their field in high growth industries. To entice these talented candidates, the Australian Government have designed the GTI program with the follow key features:

• Priority processing, with decisions being made from one week to two months.
• Permanent residency straight away
• No age limit
• Free to work for any employer
• No sponsorship requirements
• No SAF levy to be paid
• Access to Medicare and other government benefits

Global Talent Visa as a substitute for Employer-Sponsored Visa

The key areas of problems include:

• The Skilling Australia Fund (‘SAF’) levy has made it very expensive for employers to sponsor workers.
• The work experience requirements are very difficult for prospective migrants to meet. The current work experience requirements are:
  • two years post-qualification experience for the Temporary Skills Shortage 482 visa
  • three years full time experience for the Skilled Employer Sponsored Regional 494 visa

Global Talent Independent Visa vs Regional Migration

Global Talent Independent Visa vs Trades and Agricultural Labourer Positions

The Global Talent program focuses on high-tech related and highly paid skills sets. This is a positive and there are definitely some shortages in relation to such highly skilled tech-related positions. However the most consistent areas of shortages are not in relation to high-tech positions, but are in trades and also agricultural labouring positions.

Trade Occupation Shortage

There have been consistent shortages in relation to trade occupations such as electricians and diesel mechanics. These shortages are reflected by the fact that these occupations I consistently on the medium-term (long-term) skill shortages lists for migration purposes. You will also find that many states do not add any extra conditions for sponsoring these occupations, whereas Degree level and often management focus positions often require many additional requirements to meet state sponsorship.

Agricultural Labour Shortage

The shortage of Australian agricultural labourer positions is well documented over many decades. This gap has been partially field by the Pacific Islander and also backpacker visas. However the need to address the low wages and seasonal nature of this work has never really been addressed by the Federal Government. As a result, there is a consistent and ongoing shortage in this area.

The shortage in this area is set to increase over the next couple of years, as the effects of the Coronavirus will stop the constant flow of backpackers that have been coming to Australia up until recently. The number of backpackers that are already in Australia will not be sufficient to complete all the work and their incentive to keep doing the job is decreasing over time. This is an article for another day, but there is an argument for the introduction of a government subsidised and regulated base level wage for agricultural labour during the Coronavirus times. Such a move would decrease the dependence on foreign labour which is currently almost impossible to access. It would also provide more stability for the sector and allow people to live in regional areas, bringing great economic benefit to these regional areas.

Global Talent Independent Visa in 2020-2021 – Opportunity for Permanent Residency

The Global Talent Independent Visa is the most successful of the three visas for innovation.  The opportunity to attract global talent has been increased by the COVID-19 pandemic. This is due to the global increase in unemployment rates as a direct impact of the COVID-19. Prior to the global pandemic, these highly-skilled candidates might not have been looking to migrate to Australia. With the Coronavirus under control, Australia has become an even more attractive destination compared to other nations where COVID-19 has proliferated.

Minister Tudge hinted at the potential development of the GTI program as an integral part of the Australian migration program for the 2020-21 migration year, post-pandemic. 

More Information on the Global Talent Programs

If you are interested in finding out more about visas under the the Global Talent program, read more here:

• 3 Visas for Innovation - Global Talent Visa Program: https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/news/all/the-global-talent-visa-program.html
• Global Talent Independent: https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/news/all/why-the-australian-global-talent-independent-visa-is-so-hot-right-now.html
• Global Talent Employer-Sponsored: https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/news/all/new-global-talent-visa-as-part-of-tss-482-to-attract-entrepreneurs-to-australia.html
• Supporting Innovation in South Australia (SISA): https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/news/all/new-south-australian-entrepreneur-visa-processing-times-requirements-checklist-supporting-innovation-in-south-australia-sisa-subclass-408-temporary-activity-visa.html

Do you need help?

Our team of experienced Immigration Lawyers and Migration Agents look forward to assisting you with your Australian visa or appeal.

Based in Adelaide South Australia, we provide Australian Immigration advice to people and businesses from all over the world.

If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

(08) 8351 9956 or +61 8 8351 9956 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Sources:

https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/news/all/the-global-talent-visa-program.html

https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/news/all/why-the-australian-global-talent-independent-visa-is-so-hot-right-now.html

https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/news/all/coronavirus-how-will-covid-19-affect-australian-immigration-practice-and-policy-students-skilled-business-family.html

https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/migration-reset-looms-in-budget-as-government-eyes-super-skilled-talent-20200521-p54vcl.html

https://www.itnews.com.au/news/tech-migrants-shun-australias-new-fast-track-permanent-residency-visa-548177

https://www.pm.gov.au/media/press-conference-australian-parliament-house-act-1may20

If you wish to keep up to date with Work Visa Lawyers' coverage on the COVID-19 impacts on Australia’s immigration policy and current visa programs, read our rolling news blog here.

A new visa to attract highly skilled workers from around the globe is set to increase Australian visa options.

The Australian Government has announced that the new Global Talent Visa will come into effect from 1^st July 2018 and will be trialled for one year.

It is believed that the new visa will attract people with exceptional technical skills and talent, which can be transferred to the Australian work-force and in turn encourage business growth.

“Industry figures say globally mobile, highly skilled and experienced staff can act as ‘job multipliers’ in Australian businesses, helping them to hire more local staff and fill critical areas of need.”

 - Minister for Jobs and Innovation, Michaelia Cash

This is an older article. Click here to learn the current criteria for the Global Talent Visa

Highlights of the new Global Talent Visa Scheme

A key feature of the Global Talent Scheme is that it will be split into two streams:

• Established business stream
• Start-up stream

Successful applicants under both streams will have access to a 4-year visa within the Temporary Skills Shortage (TSS) Visa Programme which came into effect on 18 March 2018, providing visa holders a pathway to permanent residency after three years and certain age cap concessions.

Applications will be simpler and have faster processing times.

The new visa scheme in its current form is not limited to a specific list of occupations.

The features of the two streams:

Established business stream

• Business must be publicly listed or have an annual turnover of at least A$4 million for each of the past 2 years
• Access up to 20 positions per year
• Available to accredited sponsors and other businesses
• If the position ends, the visa holder has 60 days to find a new sponsor and a new visa or depart Australia
• Business must show a good history i.e. no breaches of workplace or immigration law
• Business must demonstrate a track record of giving first preference to Australian workers
• Labour market testing for the specific position
• Applicants must meet health, character and security requirements
• They must have no family relationship with directors/shareholders
• Qualifications must be compatible with the highly skilled role
• Applicant must have at least 3 years work experience directly relevant to position
• Capacity to pass on skills and help develop Australians workers
• Position must have minimum annual earnings of A$180,000

 Start-up stream

• Business operates in STEM-related (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) field
• A ‘start-up authority’ must endorse the business
• Access up to 5 positions per year
• Business must show a good history i.e. no breaches of workplace or immigration law
• Business must demonstrate a track record of giving first preference to Australian workers
• If the position ends (eg the start-up ceases trading) the visa holder has 60 days to find a new sponsor and a new visa or depart Australia
• Labour market testing for the specific position
• Applicants must meet health, character and security requirements
• They must have no family relationship with directors/shareholders
• Qualifications must be compatible with the highly skilled role
• At least 3 years work experience directly relevant to position
• Capacity to pass on skills and develop Australian workers
• Minimum annual earnings at the market salary rate (this can include equity, but must have a cash component that is no less than the Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold (currently A$53,900)).

More developments in the Entrepreneur/Start-up space

There is increasing interest in the area of innovation and entrepreneurship. The South Australian State Government has also recently announced that, with the cooperation of the Federal Government, South Australia will be trialling a new visa to attract budding entrepreneurs.

The newly announced South Australian Entrepreneurs visa is consistent with the South Australian Government’s aim to make Adelaide the start-up capital of Australia. We will provide more details as they become available.

In Conclusion

The Government recognises that there is increasing competition internationally for people with high-tech skills and experience, and believes that the new Global Talent Visa will allow Australian businesses to access the best talent across the world, leading to business growth, innovation, skills transfer and job creation.

From now until the visa is introduced on 1^st July 2018, the initial settings will be refined, with an industry advisory group to provide ongoing guidance.

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Do you need help with an Australian visa application?

At Work Visa Lawyers we are experienced in assisting applicants in all matters relating to Australian visa applications. Our areas of expertise include Skilled Migration visas, Business Skills Migration visas, Employer Sponsored Work Visas, Partner and other Family Migration visas as well as the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) Review, Judicial Review and Ministerial Intervention.

If you require further information regarding your Australia visa options you can contact us through:

(08) 8351 9956 or +61 8 8351 9956 

or   This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.