National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) – Eligibility Criteria for Queensland
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Quick answer: Queensland nominates candidates for the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) through Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ), across five categories: researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, athletes and creative talent. Entrepreneurs generally need to show capacity to invest at least AUD $1 million into a Queensland venture; investors need to commit at least AUD $5 million over two years. Nomination is by invitation only, via a Registration of Interest to TIQ. |
Queensland is now accepting nominations for the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) through Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ). The National Innovation Visa offers permanent residency to individuals with exceptional global achievements across research, entrepreneurship, investment, sport and the creative industries.
Queensland’s framework focuses on attracting individuals who can make a real economic, social or cultural impact in the state – not just those with strong credentials, but those with a clear contribution plan for Queensland.
How Queensland’s NIV nomination works
Queensland accepts nominations for the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) through Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ). The National Innovation Visa itself is a Commonwealth permanent visa for individuals with exceptional global achievements in research, entrepreneurship, investment, sport or the creative industries – a state nomination isn’t compulsory, but it materially improves an applicant’s standing and priority in the Department of Home Affairs’ assessment queue.
Queensland’s framework is explicitly built around economic and cultural contribution to the state, not credentials alone – TIQ is assessing whether an applicant has a clear, concrete plan to build something in Queensland specifically, not just a strong CV.
Who can apply
Queensland considers nominations across five categories:
- Global Researchers and Thought Leaders – internationally recognised research profile, academic leadership, IP, or major research funding
- Entrepreneurs and Innovators – founders seeking to establish or grow a venture in Queensland, particularly in innovation-led or high-growth sectors
- Innovative Investors – a strong track record scaling businesses, venture capital, or major commercial enterprises
- Athletes and Sports Professionals – elite athletes, coaches or specialists contributing to performance pathways or international recognition
- Creative Talent – artists, designers, digital creators or cultural professionals with recognised international achievement
Queensland’s nomination thresholds
| Pathway | Key requirement |
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Entrepreneurs |
Capacity to invest at least AUD $1 million into a Queensland-based venture; physical business presence; at least one local employee; commercial-readiness evidence (contracts, clients, revenue); engagement with Queensland’s innovation ecosystem |
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Investors |
Proven venture capital / private equity / innovative investment track record; commitment of at least AUD $5 million into Queensland’s innovation ecosystem over two years; a defined investment strategy aligned with Queensland’s growth sectors |
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Athletes & creatives |
Recognised international profile or professional standing; a clear plan to contribute through employment, mentoring, performance or partnerships |
How to apply
- Submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) to TIQ
- TIQ assesses the ROI against Queensland’s economic and innovation priorities
- Shortlisted applicants are invited to lodge a full nomination application
- If approved, Queensland issues a nomination that supports the Department of Home Affairs visa application
The process is invitation-only – applicants cannot self-nominate directly into a full application without first clearing the ROI stage.
Queensland vs the other states
Queensland was the fourth Australian jurisdiction to formalise an NIV nomination pathway, following New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria. Each state runs its own criteria and priority sectors, and applicants aren’t restricted to their state of residence – it’s worth comparing fit before committing an ROI to a single state.
| 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 regional/local presence requirement |
| South Australia | EOI via SA portal | Commercialisation-ready ventures, IPO/investment leadership |
How much do I need to invest to qualify as a Queensland NIV entrepreneur nominee?
TIQ generally looks for capacity to invest at least AUD $1 million into a Queensland-based venture, alongside a physical business presence, at least one local employee, and evidence of commercial readiness.
Can I apply for the National Innovation Visa without a Queensland nomination?
Yes – a state nomination isn’t compulsory for the Subclass 858, but it improves your standing in the Department of Home Affairs’ assessment process. Unlike the 190 and 491 visas, state nomination for the NIV doesn’t come with a fixed quota or a guaranteed invitation.
Is Queensland’s NIV process open applications or invitation-only?
Invitation-only. You submit a Registration of Interest first; only shortlisted candidates are invited to lodge a full nomination application.
If you would like assistance with your NIV application or require further information, please feel free to GET IN TOUCH with out team of migration professionals.
