National Innovation Visa

EOI Processing Times

The expected processing time for an Expression of Interest (EOI) application varies widely based on the applicant’s Priority sector and the strength of their achievement indicators. Highly competitive candidates in top-tier sectors, especially those showcasing multiple strong indicators in areas like Critical Technologies, Health Industries, or Renewable and Low Emission Technologies, are typically invited within 1 to 3 months of submitting their Expression of Interest.

For applicants in lower-priority sectors with fewer achievement indicators, invitations are usually issued within 10 to 12 months. However, it’s important to note that receiving an invitation is not guaranteed, and less than 10% of Appiocants actuallt receive an EOI Invitation to apply for the Subclass 858 Permanent Residence visa. The Department of Home Affairs does not provide updates on applications that are not successful. If your application isn’t selected for an invitation, you won’t receive any communication regarding its status or outcome.

EOI Invitations Issued

From October to December 2025, a total of 2,368 Expressions of Interest (EOI's) were received, with 226 invitations issued to successful candidates.

Invitation Breakdown by Priority Level:  

• Priority One: Exceptional global experts with top international awards — fewer than 5 invitations
• Priority Two: Candidates nominated by Australian government agencies — fewer than 10 invitations
• Priority Three: Outstanding achievers in Tier One sectors — 166 invitations
• Priority Four: Outstanding achievers in Tier Two sectors — 52 invitations

Invitations - Tier 1 Sector:  

• Critical Technologies: 106
• Renewables & Low Emission Technologies: 25
• Health Industries: 36

Invitations - Tier 2 Sector:

• Agri-food & AgTech: 8
• Education: 8
• Defence Capabilities & Space: 5
• Financial Services & FinTech: 20
• Infrastructure & Transport: 5
• Resources: 8
• Other (Sports & Arts): 5

Top Achievement Indicators for NIV

The following are Indicators of Applicant's Exceptional and Outstanding Achievement:

1. 1. International Top-of-Field Awards - Recognition such as Nobel Prizes, Fields Medal, Turing Award, Olympic Gold Medals, and others demonstrate that candidates are acknowledged globally as leaders in their fields. Holders are typically considered Priority One applicants.
2. 2. National Research Grants - Receiving competitive research grants (e.g., Australian Research Council, UKRI, NSF, A*STAR) signifies peer-recognized excellence and leadership in high-quality research.
3. 3. Academic Influence and Thought Leadership - Candidates with a PhD and notable academic impact—such as publications in top journals (e.g., Nature, Lancet), a high H-index, or degrees from top-ranked universities—demonstrate significant influence in their field.
4. 4. International Conference Appearances - Invitations to deliver keynote speeches or participate as speakers at prestigious international conferences (e.g., Web Summit, ICM) reflect recognition by peers and industry leaders.
5. 5. High Income - Earnings at or above the Fair Work high income threshold, which is currently $190,100 AUD as at 1 July 2026, and this salary indicates market recognition of exceptional talent and your potential earning capacity in Australia.
6. 6. Recognised Intellectual Property - Holding relevant international patents or recognised IP demonstrates innovation and leadership in your field. This indicator is available to all candidates, regardless of government nomination.
7. 7. Technical Leadership - Leading technical teams at internationally competitive organisations (e.g., senior AI or FinTech leaders) shows high-level expertise and recognition.
8. 8. Senior Management - Holding senior management roles in globally reputed organisations (e.g., cybersecurity leaders) signifies outstanding professional achievement.

These indicators collectively demonstrate exceptional achievement and are used to identify top-tier candidates across various sectors.

English Langauge Requirements

To be eligible for the National Innovation Visa, all Applicants must prove that they have Functional English. Applicants can prove that they have Functional English by any of the following:

1. Citizen and Passport holder of English speaking countries - see below:

• Canada
• New Zealand
• The Republic of Ireland
• The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
• The United States of America.

2. Educational Qualifications studied in English - Completed a degree, a higher degree, a diploma or a trade certificate in an institution in or outside Australia that required at least 2 years of full-time study, and English was the the language of instruction.

3. English Test - for the IELTS English test (Academic or General), an Applicant needs an average band score of at least 4.5

Nomination by Government Agency

Applicants who have exceptional and outstanding talent and can also prove that they have research and academia and work experience in a State of Australia, can apply for Nomination by a specialised Commonwealth or State/Territory Government Agency, under Priority Two including:

• Athletes and creatives who will increase Australia’s international standing in their field
• Evidence of innovative investment activity with a proven track record of supporting successful innovative ventures
• Evidence of promising entrepreneurial activities that will lead to the commercialisation of a product or service in Australia, particularly where linked to Commonwealth, State or Territory based innovation hubs.
• Recognised intellectual property attributed to the Applicant, for example holding relevant international patents.

Victorian Government Nomination

From 17 July 2025, the Victorian Government started to Nominate National Innovation Visa candidates to the Australian Government in order to attract high-calibre, high-performing individuals who can drive innovation, productivity and economic growth in Victoria and contribute to enhancing the State’s international profile.

Your Expression of Interest (EOI) will be supported by Victoria State Nomination to the Australian Department of Home Affairs and enables you to be considered under Priority Two of the visa processing pathway.

Victorian Government Nomination Process

The Victorian Government Nomination process is as follows:

1. 1. Engage with a Victorian agency - Discuss a project that uses your internationally recognised expertise and has the potential to drive innovation, productivity, economic growth and Victoria’s global profile.
2. 2. Be identified and referred - A Victorian Government department or agency must identify you and agree to support your nomination and identify how your internationally recognised track record and expertise will be transferred to Victoria. You cannot start the nomination process yourself through an application or registration of interest.
3. 3. Prove a Genuine commitment - to live in and contribute to the State of Victoria.
4. 4. Receive your nomination - The supporting agency prepares the nomination document and provides it to you.
5. 5. Submit an EOI - Send your Expression of Interest and Victorian nomination to the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs.
6. 6. Await a decision - Home Affairs decides whether to invite you to apply for a visa.

NSW Government Nomination

In July 2025, the NSW Government announced that it will start to support eligible Applicants applying for an EOI for the National Innovation Visa with NSW Government Nomination.

The NSW Government supports Nominations through 5 Priority pathways:

1. 1. Academic and Researcher
2. 2. Entrepreneur
3. 3. Innovative Investor
4. 4. Sports Professional
5. 5. Creative Professional

To be considered for NSW nomination for the National Innovation visa, Applicant's must follow the process below:

1. 1. Check if you meet the eligibility criteria for your pathway
2. 2. Submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) - Your ROI outlines your skills and talent and informs NSW Government that you wish to be considered for nomination.
3. 3. Receive an Invitation to Apply - If your ROI is shortlisted, you will be Invited to submit a full nomination application, and upload all your supporting evidence of your Talent.

NSW ROI Nomination

The ROI for NSW requests the following iformation from Applicants:

• Personal and representative details: Your contact and passport information, and details of any authorised representative.
• Professional background: Your current role and organisation, financial standing, career highlights, skills and expertise.
• Pathway-specific achievements: Relevant evidence and accomplishments for your field—research and academia, entrepreneurship, investment, sport or creative practice.
• Your plans for NSW: Why you chose NSW, your expected economic, cultural or community contribution, local partnerships, and your plans for the next three to five years.
• Optional details: Any NSW job offer or previous engagement with a NSW Government agency.

Queensland Government Nomination

As at October 2026, Queensland Government NIV nominations are temporarily closed; ROI's for the 2026–27 program will re-open at a later date.

The Queensland Government is seeking to Nominate high-calibre Applicants, with skills in the following talent:

1. Global Researchers - require a confirmed Job offer at a Queensland University or confirmed Funding to undertake research at a Queensland research Institute for at least 2 years.

2. Entrepreneurs - requirements are that the Established or emerging Entrepreneurs or Business Proprietors are ready to commercialise or expand an innovative product or service in Queensland, with a minimum investment of $1 million AUD.

3. Innovative Investors - required to prove established track record of leading groundbreaking ventures, and Investor is prepared to invest a minimum of $5 million AUD for two or more years in Queensland's innovation ecosystem. Note that they type of Investments should be the following:

• Private equity
• Venture capital
• Research and development
• Asset managers or
• Co-investments (for example, Queensland Investment Corporation ventures)

4. Athletes and Sports Professionals - provide proof that the Applicant is an Elite or high-calibre talent that will contribute to substantial sporting opportunities in Queensland, including athletes, coaches and other sports specialists.

5. Creatives - required to provie that the Applicant is an Elite or high-calibre talent that will make a unique contribution to Queensland's arts, cultural and creative sector. This includes local sector impact, developing the state's creative reputation and increasing capacity in key skill areas including technical production as Queensland approaches the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Note that Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview with the Trade and Investment Commissioner aligned to the applicant’s passport country. 

Nominated candidates will receive a signed Form 1000 from the Trade and Investment Commissioner to support the Applicants's Expression of Interest (EOI) to Home Affairs. 

South Australian Government Nomination

As at October 2026, the South Australian State Government is open for NIV Nomination. Applicants are required to submit a Registration of Interest (ROI) application.

Nomination Categories

The following are the SA Nomination catregories, which Applicants must provide detailed evidence of their Achievements:

1. 1. Global Reearchers and Thought Leaders
2. 2. Entrepreneurs - activities have led to the Commercialisation of a product or service in SoutH Australia.
3. 3. Innovative Investors - track-record of supporting successful innovative ventures.
4. 4. Creative Talent
5. 5. Other Globally Talented Individuals

Checklist for NIV Registration of Interest to SA

1. Personal Identification and Details

• A copy of the biodata page of your current valid passport.
• A copy of your visa approval letter from the Department of Home Affairs (if you are in Australia).
• A copy of your Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV) (maximum 4 pages).

2. Qualifications

• A Graduation certificate and/or academic transcript for any qualification relevant to your NIV ROI application.
• For any qualification(s) completed in Australia, you must provide a copy of your academic transcript or a letter from your Education Provider confirming course completion.

3. Employment Reference Letter or Job Offer Letter

An employment reference letter for:

• Any current employment and/or a South Australian job offer relevant to your NIV ROI application.
• Your current employment reference letter (if applicable) that details: Job role, tasks, salary, workmduration and location.

4. Appointment of Migration Agent

Completion of Form 956 for Appointment of Migration Agent to assist and advise you with your ROI for the NIV.

 5. Letter of Referral from South Australian State Government Agency

A Referral Support letter (if available) from the South Australian State Government Agency referring you to submit a NIV ROI application that details: any proposed cooperation or collabotation with the SA State Government Agency and how your area of work or business aligns with this SA Government Agency.

6. Resident in Australia

Provide evidence of currently residing in Australia, including, Current lease agreement, recent Utility bill or Current Vehicle Registration.

ACT Government Nomination

As at October 2026, the ACT State Government is considering and reviewing the procedures for ACT Government Nomination under the NIV Program. Currently, the ACT Government Nomination Program is not yet open and therefore it is not possible to make an Expression of Interest, as yet.

WA Government Nomination

As at October 2026, the Western Australian Government is not Open to Nominations for the National Innovation Visa.

Tasmania Government Nomination

To be nominated by the Tasmanian Government for Australia’s National Innovation Visa (NIV), an applicant must generally meet the following requirements:

• Exceptional achievements: You must have a strong record of internationally recognised achievements in your professional or academic field.
• Connection to Tasmania: You must have an established connection with a Tasmanian government department or authority, the University of Tasmania, or one of its related research institutes. Alternatively, you may be recommended by a Tasmanian business that has an established connection with a Tasmanian government department or authority.
• Tasmanian referral: Your application must be supported or referred by a relevant Tasmanian government department, authority, or University of Tasmania area that has expertise in your field.
• Federal NIV requirements: You must also satisfy the Australian Department of Home Affairs’ eligibility requirements for the National Innovation Visa.
• Commitment to Tasmania: You need to demonstrate a genuine intention to live in Tasmania and make a meaningful contribution to the state, particularly through innovation, productivity and economic growth.

In summary, Tasmania is looking for highly accomplished individuals with internationally recognised talent who have a genuine connection to Tasmania, are supported by an appropriate Tasmanian organisation, meet the federal NIV requirements, and intend to contribute to Tasmania’s future development.

Tasmania Nominating Organization

A senior representative of the Tasmanian Government agency, University of Tasmania, or relevant academic/research organisation must prepare a business case to support the candidate’s nomination.

The business case should explain:

• Exceptional achievement: Why the applicant has an internationally recognised record of outstanding achievement in their profession, arts, sport, research, or academia.
• Value to Tasmania and Australia: How the applicant’s skills and achievements would benefit the Australian community, particularly Tasmania.
• Planned contribution: What the applicant intends to do in Tasmania and how their skills and experience will be used.

The senior representative then submits the business case to Migration Tasmania. Migration Tasmania prepares the official Form 1000 nomination, and provides both the completed nomination form and business case to the candidate for their visa application.

Northern Territory Government Nomination

MigrationNT does not accept nomination requests directly from candidates. You must first be referred by an eligible Northern Territory-based organisation that works in, or is closely connected to, your field. Eligible organisations may include:

• Peak bodies
• Government agencies
• Venture capital funds
  Accelerators and Incubators
• Research or education institutions

The referring organisation must consider you to have an internationally recognised record of exceptional achievement and believe your proposed activities align with Northern Territory priorities.

Preference is given to candidates whose work supports these priority sectors:

• Gas, mining and resources
• Defence and aerospace
• Tourism and creative industries
• Agriculture, ag-tech and food innovation
• Renewables and low-emissions technologies

Northern Territory Nomination Process

The process to obtain Northern Territory Government nomination is as follows:

1. 1. Engage with an eligible NT Organisation - Candidates must build a genuine connection with an eligible Northern Territory-based organisation working in the same or a closely related field.
2. 2. The NT Organisation submits a referral - The eligible organisation—not the candidate—must email the referral to MigrationNT, and the Referral must include a signed referral letter, and completed NT Nomination questionnaire. Note that the Referral must outline the candidate’s achievements, NT contribution, ability to establish themselves, and commitment to the Territory.

Migration Agents NIV Advice

Contact VisaConnect's Migration Agents and Australian Immigration Lawyers at VisaConnect for advice and assistance with the National Innovation Visa, subclass 858 for permanent residence, in Australia. Our Registered Migration Agents and Immigration Lawyers are experienced and ethical. We can assist eligible National Innovation visa clients in our offices in Australia, Singapore and Hong Kong. Moreover, our Australian qualified Lawyers can advise clients worldwide, with a fast and efficient Consultation by telephone or Zoom Video call, with advice regarding:

• Eligibility Assessment for the National Innovation Visa
• Visa Application process and Residency requirements
• CV/Resume customisation, formatting, updates and review
• LinkedIn Profile review and adding Personal details, Employment and Skills
• Expression of Interest (EOI) application completion
• Guidance regarding preparation of 'Summary of Achievements'
• List of Online Links for EOI
• Registration of Interest (ROI) application for State Government Nomination
• Guidance regarding Nominator and review of Form 1000 and attachments
• Advice regarding Supporting documents as Evidence of Innovation, Leadership, Research and Exceptional Ability
• Advice regarding how to sit an English language test and required score
• Advice regarding how to apply for Police Clearance certificates
• Medical examination and Chest x ray referral letter
• Visa Processing time guidance
• Government Visa Application fee

In 2026, call or Email VisaConnect's Migration Agents for fast, professional advice and assistance with your National Innovation Visa application for Australian permanent residence!

FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Processing time for an NIV EOI?

The Expression of Interest (EOI) submitted for the National Innovation Visa is processed according to your Priority Order. So, if the Priority is 1, then it may take just 1 -3 months. For Priority 3, it appears that the processing time is approximately 9 - 11 months.

After receiving an Invitation, how long do I have to apply for the 858 Visa?

After submitting an EOI, and receiving an Invitation to apply for the 858 Residence visa, the Applicant has 60 days to prepare and submit their application for the 858 Visa.

What are the requirements for a Nominator?

The Nominator should have an International reputation in the same field as the Applicant, and also have Exceptional Talent in the field. The Nominator is usually an Expert in their sector, such as a University Professor, with substantial Research and Publications. Also, the Nominator must be an Australian citizen, Australian Permanent resident, an Eligible New Zealand citizen or an Australian organization. 

How do I apply for State Government Nomination?

Apply for State or Territory Nomination at the start of the process. Each State has their own application requirements. For example, NSW requires Applicants to complete an initial Registration of Interest and the Applicant must work in a specific field, including: Researchers and Academics, Entrepeneurs, Innovative Investors, Sports Professionals and Creative Professionals. 

How many State Government's offer assistaance with Nomination?

As at July 2026, there are 4 State Governments providing Nomination assistance - Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, and South Australia.

What is the processing time for the Subclass 858 Visa?

As at July 2026, the NIV 858 Visa processing time is approximately 4 to 7 months. Source: Department of Home Affairs - Visa Processing Times Guide

I am over 55 Years of age, can I still apply for the NIV Visa?

Yes, but you must prove that you would be of exceptional benefit to the Australian community. For example, making a significant benefit to the Australian economy or creating a number of jobs for Australian residents or being at the forefront of important research and innovation.

Do I need to undergo Medicals and get a Character certificate?

Yes, you will need to undergo a comprehensive set of Medicals and a Chest x-ray, as well as provide Police Character certificates for every country that you have lived in for 12 months or more, during the last 10 years.

Does the Immigration Department need my original documents?

No, all original documents should be scanned, with a high-quality colour scan, and saved as separate pdf files.

In what areas, should the Applicant have an internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement?

In the following areas: 1. A Profession. 2. A Sport. 3. the Arts. 4. Academia and Research.

Does State Nomination allow a wider range of Occupations and not just Skilled Professionals?

Yes, Applicants are eligible to apply for NIV State Nomination as Creative Artists, Sportspersons, Entrepreneurs, and Investors.

Does the Nominator need to be an Australian Permanent Resident or an Australian Citizen?

Both are eligible to be Nominators! Either as an Australian Citizen or Permanent resident, as well as an eligible New Zealand citizen, or an Australian organisation.

For the 858 Visa, do I need to upload my Documents?

Yes, you or your Registered Migration Agent must upload to the Immi Account, all your documents relating to your Identity, your Family's Identity, Evidence of your Achievements and any other relevant documents.