Distinguished Talent Visa (Subclass 124)
The Distinguished Talent Visa (Subclass 124) is a permanent residence visa for individuals who have demonstrated internationally recognised, exceptional achievement in a qualifying field.
This visa is designed for people whose skills, expertise, or achievements are of significant benefit to Australia and who are likely to continue contributing at a high level after migration.
Applicants must generally be outside Australia at the time of application and visa decision.
Who This Visa Is For
You may be suitable for this visa if you have an established reputation at an international level in one of the following fields:
• Profession or industry
• Academia or scientific research
• Arts and culture
• Sport
• Innovation or entrepreneurship
Your achievements must be current, sustained, and recognised globally, not limited to one country or region.
Nomination Requirement
You must be nominated by an eligible individual or organisation in Australia, such as:
• An Australian citizen
• An Australian permanent resident
• An eligible New Zealand citizen
• An Australian organisation with a national reputation in your field
The nominator must be able to confirm that your presence in Australia would be of exceptional benefit to the Australian community
Key Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Distinguished Talent Visa, you must:
• Have a record of exceptional and outstanding achievement
• Be internationally recognised in your field
• Be prominent and active in your area of expertise
• Demonstrate ongoing ability to contribute to Australia
• Show you will have no difficulty finding work or establishing yourself professionally in Australia
• Meet health and character requirements
There is no points test for this visa.
Age Requirement
There is no strict age limit.
However, if you are under 18 or over 55, you must demonstrate that granting the visa would be of exceptional benefit to Australia
English Language Requirement
Applicants must demonstrate functional English ability.
If functional English is not met, an additional government charge may apply.
Visa Benefits
The Distinguished Talent Visa is a permanent residence visa, allowing you to:
• Live in Australia indefinitely
• Work or operate independently in your field
• Travel to and from Australia for up to five years
• Enrol in Medicare
• Sponsor eligible family members
• Apply for Australian citizenship (when eligible)
Evidence You Must Provide
Strong documentation is critical. Evidence may include:
• International awards, honours, or recognitions
• Media coverage or publications
• Professional memberships or leadership roles
• Independent expert references
• Evidence of ongoing work and income in your field
• Proof of nomination support
Weak or locally limited evidence often results in refusal.
How Visa Aid Can Assist
Visa Aid provides strategic support throughout the process, including:
• Eligibility assessment and pathway advice
• Nomination strategy and documentation review
• Evidence preparation and presentation
• Application lodgement and compliance checks
• Ongoing support until visa decision
This visa has a high refusal rate when not prepared correctly. Professional guidance is strongly recommended.
Important Disclaimer
Visa Aid does not guarantee visa approval.
All decisions are made solely by the Department of Home Affairs based on individual merit.
Considering a Distinguished Talent Visa
If you believe your achievements may meet the requirements, a detailed assessment is essential before applying.
Book a consultation with Visa Aid to determine your eligibility and next steps.
