Distinguished Talent visa (subclass 124)

The Distinguished Talent visa (subclass 124) is a permanent visa for individuals who have an internationally recognized record of exceptional and outstanding achievement in a profession, the arts, sport, research, or academia, and who are still prominent in their field.

Key Points:
  1. Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for this visa, you must be internationally recognized as having exceptional and outstanding achievements in your field. You must also be nominated by an eligible individual or organization in Australia.
  2. Streams: The Distinguished Talent visa has two streams:
    • The Distinguished Talent stream: This stream is for individuals who are internationally recognized in a profession, the arts, sport, research, or academia.
    • The Global Talent Independent Program: This program is designed to attract highly skilled individuals from around the world to contribute to Australia's economy.
  3. Nomination: To apply for this visa, you must be nominated by an Australian individual or organization that is highly regarded in your field.
  4. Application Process: The application process involves submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect (for the Distinguished Talent stream) or through the Global Talent contact form (for the Global Talent Independent Program). If you receive an invitation to apply, you can then submit a visa application.
  5. Permanent Residency: The Distinguished Talent visa is a permanent visa, allowing you to live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely. It also provides a pathway to Australian citizenship.
  6. Health and Character Requirements: Like all Australian visas, you must meet health and character requirements to be granted the Distinguished Talent visa.
  7. Visa Conditions: Once granted, the Distinguished Talent visa may have certain conditions attached, such as the requirement to live in a specified regional area of Australia for a certain period.

Overall, the Distinguished Talent visa (subclass 124) is designed for individuals who have reached the pinnacle of their field internationally and wish to contribute their talents to Australia. It's a pathway to permanent residency for those who have made significant contributions to their respective fields.