The National Innovation Visa (subclass 858) is a permanent residency visa for individuals who possess an internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievement in their field. This visa supports the Australian Government’s vision to attract high talents in areas critical to the nation’s economic prosperity.
The New South Wales (NSW) Government offers nomination to eligible applicants, providing a significant strategic advantage when applying for the visa. Nomination by NSW gives applicants Priority 2 processing with the Department of Home Affairs.
If you wish to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) for NSW, applications are now open, and we can assist you at every stage of the process.
Eligibility for NSW Nomination
NSW nomination for the National Innovation Visa is available across five distinct pathways:
- Researchers and Academics
- Entrepreneurs
- Innovative Investors
- Creative Professionals
- Sports Professionals
Each pathway has tailored eligibility criteria, but all require:
- Evidence of internationally recognised talent and achievements.
- A clear and credible plan to contribute to NSW’s economic, social, or cultural landscape.
- A strong commitment to living and working in NSW.
It’s important to note:
- There are no fees for NSW nomination.
- Nomination does not guarantee a visa grant; final decisions are made by the Department of Home Affairs.
NSW Pathways – Detailed Criteria
1. Researchers and Academics
Ideal for: Individuals with significant academic output, citations, global collaborations, and research aligned with NSW's future-focused priorities.
Eligibility Indicators:
- Extensive peer-reviewed publications.
- High citation metrics and prestigious grants.
- Collaboration with NSW research institutions.
- Potential to contribute to commercial outcomes or train future talent in NSW.
Endorsement Requirement: Letters from senior academics, preferably from NSW-based institutions, confirming your achievements and future value.
2. Entrepreneurs
Ideal for: Founders of high-growth, scalable ventures who are ready to scale their next startup in NSW.
Eligibility Indicators:
- Past ventures with proven traction (revenue, users, capital raised).
- Successful exits (acquisitions or IPOs).
- Participation in global accelerator or incubator programs.
- Clear, scalable business plans and plans to establish operations in NSW.
Endorsement Requirement: Recommendations from prominent investors, co-founders, or innovation hubs.
3. Innovative Investors
Ideal for: Angel investors and venture capitalists actively investing in innovative, early-stage companies.
Eligibility Indicators:
- Demonstrated track record of investing in startups.
- Mentorship or advisory roles in past ventures.
- Intention to invest in NSW-based startups.
- Engagement with NSW’s venture capital and innovation ecosystem.
Endorsement Requirement: Letters from founders, VC firms, or innovation precincts confirming your impact.
4. Creative Professionals
Ideal for: Acclaimed creatives in fields such as design, performing arts, film, music, or digital arts with international recognition.
Eligibility Indicators:
- Awards or nominations from peak industry bodies.
- Exhibitions, performances, or publications in globally renowned venues or platforms.
- Contribution to cultural programs or institutions in NSW.
- Plans to collaborate, perform, or mentor in NSW.
Endorsement Requirement: Letters from recognised artists, institutions, or organisations validating your impact and alignment with NSW’s cultural development.
5. Sports Professionals
Ideal for: Athletes, coaches, or specialists with high-level competition or coaching experience and a vision to contribute to NSW sport.
Eligibility Indicators:
- Olympic, World Championship, or elite league achievements.
- Coaching records of national/international success.
- Plans to mentor or compete in NSW.
- Contributions to sport development and infrastructure.
Endorsement Requirement: Letters from national/state sporting organisations or high-performance programs.
The Application Process
Step 1: Assess Your Eligibility
- Review your fit within one of the five nomination pathways.
- Collect evidence of your achievements and your commitment to NSW.
Step 2: Submit a Registration of Interest (ROI)
- Only one ROI may be submitted at a time and remains valid for six months.
- It cannot be amended once submitted — ensure all information is accurate and supported by evidence.
Step 3: If Invited, Submit Your Full Application
- If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to apply for NSW nomination.
- You will need to provide full supporting documentation for every claim made in your ROI.
- You’ll have 21 days to complete the application after receiving the invitation.
Step 4: NSW Nomination Outcome
- If successful, you will receive:
- A signed Form 1000 (required for the visa application).
- A letter of recommendation from the NSW Government.
- These documents are submitted with your Expression of Interest (EOI) to Home Affairs.
Contact us if you need any assistance to submit your ROI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to live in NSW already?
No, but you must show evidence of genuine ties, ongoing collaboration, or a credible plan to relocate and contribute to NSW.
Can I have multiple ROIs?
No, only one ROI can be active at a time.
Can I switch pathways after submitting an ROI?
No, you cannot change your pathway once your ROI is submitted.
Will I receive feedback if my ROI is not invited?
No individual feedback is provided. You may choose to submit a new ROI after your initial one expires.
Why Choose NSW?
New South Wales is Australia’s most populous and economically dynamic state, offering:
- Permanent residency from day one with the 858 visa.
- Innovation precincts like Tech Central, Westmead Innovation Precinct, and Western Sydney Aerotropolis.
- Access to global capital, talent, and research institutions.
- Liveable cities, top-tier infrastructure, and an inclusive, multicultural society.
Get Help with Your Application
As registered migration professionals, we offer:
- Eligibility assessments and pathway selection.
- Assistance with Registration of Interest preparation and submission.
- Review and collation of supporting evidence.
- Liaison with NSW Government during the nomination process.
- Full visa application assistance following NSW nomination.
Book a consultation today to explore your eligibility for the National Innovation Visa with NSW nomination.
You can also complete our free NIV assessment where we assess your eligibility.
Sources:
National Innovation Visa NSW Nomination: https://www.nsw.gov.au/visas-and-migration/niv
National Innovation Visa – Department of Home Affairs: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/national-innovation-visa-858
