National Innovation Visa – Eligibility Criteria for New South Wales
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Quick answer: New South Wales was the first state to formalise a nomination pathway for the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858), covering researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, sports professionals and creative professionals. NSW prioritises candidates aligned with net zero, care and support, digital and cyber, and advanced manufacturing sectors, and runs an invitation-only Expression of Interest process. NSW, Victoria, Queensland and South Australia now all operate NIV nomination pathways. |
NSW’s role in the National Innovation Visa
New South Wales is the first state in Australia to provide a clear and structured outline of its nomination process for the National Innovation Visa, setting a benchmark for attracting top global talent. The Subclass 858 visa is a Commonwealth permanent visa designed to attract individuals with exceptional and outstanding achievements across five domains: academia, entrepreneurship, innovation investment, elite sports, and the creative industries – NSW works alongside the Department of Home Affairs to help identify and support high-calibre candidates.
Who NSW is seeking to nominate
- Researchers & Academics – high-impact research aligned with NSW’s priorities
- Entrepreneurs – proven founders of scalable, innovative ventures
- Innovative Investors – a track record of investing in future-facing industries
- Sports Professionals – internationally recognised athletes, coaches or specialists
- Creative Professionals – artists and creators shaping NSW’s cultural identity
NSW prioritises candidates aligned with sectors identified in the NSW State Migration Plan – net zero economy, care and support, digital and cyber, and advanced manufacturing – so fit with these priority areas materially strengthens a nomination.
NSW nomination process
- Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via the NSW portal
- Expert shortlisting based on proven achievement and alignment with NSW’s strategic needs
- Invitation to apply
- Comprehensive application supported by third-party endorsements
- NSW assessment of the candidate’s likely contribution to the state
- Form 1000 submission and support letter to the Department of Home Affairs
How NSW compares to other states
| State | Nomination route | Notable focus |
| New South Wales | EOI via NSW portal | Net zero, care & support, digital/cyber, advanced manufacturing |
| Victoria | Referral by a Victorian Government department/agency (no applicant-initiated process) | Priority Two processing for department-referred candidates |
| Queensland | Registration of Interest to TIQ | Innovation-led and high-growth sectors, strong local presence requirement |
| South Australia | EOI via SA portal | Commercialisation-ready ventures, IPO/investment leadership |
Is the National Innovation Visa a permanent visa?
Yes – it provides permanent residency in Australia for individuals who meet the eligibility and nomination requirements.
Can I apply for the National Innovation Visa directly, without going through NSW?
The visa is by invitation only at the Commonwealth level, and NSW’s own process is also invitation-based – applicants must first submit an Expression of Interest and be shortlisted before an invitation to apply is issued.
What kind of achievements qualify as “exceptional and outstanding”?
A proven track record of national or international impact in your field – not just future potential. This includes recognised awards, published work, investment track records, or global rankings.
Does NSW prioritise any particular industries?
Yes – the NSW State Migration Plan identifies net zero, care and support, digital and cyber, and advanced manufacturing as priority sectors for NIV nominations.
How long does the NSW nomination process take?
Timelines vary depending on application complexity and how quickly external endorsers respond; NSW aims for a merit-based and efficient selection process but does not publish a fixed turnaround target.
