National Innovation Visa (NIV)
The National Innovation Visa (NIV) (Subclass 858) is a streamlined pathway to permanent residency for individuals with exceptional skills and talent.
This new initiative is specifically designed for established and emerging leaders who can deliver significant contributions to the Australian economy.
The National Innovation Visa program is designed to attract world-class talent across various fields, from cutting-edge research to entrepreneurship and arts.
Researchers & Thought Leaders
Leading academic experts with an extensive record of publications and significant citation metrics.
Innovative Investors
Individuals dedicated to meaningful investments, valuing quality and influence above purely financial returns.
Entrepreneurs
Established and emerging innovators, particularly those with a track record in successful State and Territory initiatives.
Athletes & Creatives
Individuals who will raise Australia’s international reputation through sports, the arts, or other creative fields.
Priority Sectors:
Priority One
Exceptional candidates from any sector who are recognised as global experts and recipients of prestigious international awards at the highest level
Priority Two
Candidates from any sector who are nominated via the approved Form 1000 by a recognised Australian Commonwealth, State, or Territory Government agency.
Priority Three
Candidates with exceptional and outstanding achievements in a Tier One sector, including:
- Critical Technologies
- Health Industries
- Renewable and Low Emission Technologies
Priority Four
Candidates with exceptional and outstanding achievements in a Tier Two sector, such as:
- Agri-food and AgTech
- Defence Capabilities and Space
- Education
- Financial Services and FinTech
- Infrastructure and Transport
- Resources
Eligibility Criteria & Application Process
The National Innovation Visa is invitation-only (similar to the Global Talent Visa), with the requirement to first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to be considered.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be invited to apply through an Expression of Interest (EOI)
- Be nominated by an Australian citizen, permanent resident or Australian organisation
- Have an internationally recognised record of exceptional & outstanding achievement
- The ability to attract a salary in line with the FWHIT ($175k)
- You must still be prominent in your field
- You must be an asset to the Australian community
- You must have the ability to establish yourself in Australia
- You must have at least functional English
- You must meet the health & character requirement
