NSW Subclass 858 National Innovation Visa (NIV) Opening Invitations

NSW Joins Victoria & South Australia as the first states to have opened up invitation rounds for the Subclass 858 National Innovation Visa (NIV).

Expression of Interests (EOIs) supported by a State or Territory Government are afforded second-highest processing priority by the Department of Home Affairs

New South Wales (NSW) has announced it is now nominating candidates for the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) ) – a permanent visa for individuals with internationally recognised achievements. This pathway is designed to attract global talent to drive innovation, productivity, and economic growth in the state of New South Wales.

If you’re an exceptional talent, founder, or investor ready to contribute to the NSW thriving economy, now is the time to take action.

Indicators of Exceptional Achievement

To be considered, candidates must showcase a track record of international excellence through one or more of the following:

Receipt of prestigious international awards
Access to significant research funding or possession of advanced academic qualifications
Participation as a keynote speaker at global events or holding international leadership positions
Ownership of intellectual property or proven commercialisation success
Demonstrated innovation or entrepreneurial ventures
Accomplishments in sports or the creative arts that enhance Australia’s global reputation
Any other evidence of outstanding, internationally recognised talent

New South Wales (NSW) Eligibility Criteria

NSW Requirements:

You can only submit one ROI every six months
Submissions cannot be changed once lodged
If shortlisted, you’ll have 21 days to submit your full application

NSW has introduced five nomination pathways, which targets attracting top-tier talent that will contribute substantially to the State’s innovation ecosystem.

1. Academic and Researcher Pathway: For individuals with a distinguished record in academic or research fields. The applicant must show a strong track record of original and impactful research relevant to NSW’s current or future economic or social needs.

2. Entrepreneur Pathway: For founders and leaders of innovative, scalable businesses. Applicants must have a proven entrepreneurial track record and ventures with high growth potential that will benefit NSW’s innovation ecosystem.

3. Innovative Investor Pathway: For individuals with a history of supporting early-stage ventures through capital and expertise. The applicant must demonstrate a history oof providing substantial “angel” investment in innovative ventures.

4. Sports Professional Pathway: For elite athletes, coaches, and sport specialists with international or national recognition.

Applicants who are athletes must show exceptional achievements at the highest levels (national or international). Coaches and specialists must provide evidence of outstanding success and significant impact within elite sport.

5. Creative Professional Pathway: For artists and cultural leaders with national or international acclaim. Applicants must demonstrate exceptional talent and artistic distinction in fields such as music, film, literature, design, visual arts, or digital media.

Basic eligibility for Victorian Government nomination

To be considered for Victorian nomination, you must:

demonstrate exceptional talent through a record of significant achievements
have engaged with a Victorian Government department or agency about how your internationally recognised track record and expertise will be transferred to Victoria
be referred by a Victorian Government department or agency with expertise in your field
meet the Department of Home Affairs’ criteria for the National Innovation Visa

be aged under 55 (or provide a compelling case if under 18 or over 55)
show a genuine commitment to live in and contribute to Victoria

Victorian Government Nomination Process

Step 1: Referral

You must first be identified and referred by a Victorian Government department or agency. The referral must outline your internationally recognised expertise and how it will benefit Victoria.

Step 2: Nomination Request

The referring department or agency will prepare your nomination document, which you can collect directly from them once finalised.

Step 3: Submit Your Expression of Interest (EOI)

Lodge your EOI with the Department of Home Affairs, ensuring you include your Victorian Government nomination.

Step 4: Invitation to Apply for a Visa

The Department of Home Affairs will assess your EOI and determine whether to issue an invitation to apply for a visa.

Basic Eligibility for South Australia

A new pathway to permanent residency is now available for researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, and creative professional with recognised achievements.

Registrations of Interest (ROI) are now open for South Australian state nomination.

How can I qualify for SA nomination for the NIV?

Individuals in the following categories, who can contribute to the economy and drive innovation, growth and prosperity in the state, are encouraged to apply:

Global researchers and thought leaders
Entrepreneurs
Innovative investors
Creatives
Other globally talented individuals, including athletes

Further information on eligibility is available here: National Innovation Visa.

How can I be considered for SA nomination for the NIV?

You can now submit a NIV Registration of Interest through the Application Portal.

When you submit an ROI, you are registering to be considered for SA nomination by the South Australian Government. If your ROI progresses to the next assessment stage, you will be contacted for further information.

Need Help In Determining Your Eligibility?

If you believe you may be eligible for the National Innovation Visa and wish to explore your options in New South Wales, Victoria, or South Australia, we encourage you to reach out to our experienced Registered Migration Agents. We can assess your individual circumstances and guide you through the nomination and visa application process.