National Innovation Visa – Tasmania State Nomination Criteria
The National Innovation Visa (subclass 858) is a permanent residence visa for individuals who possess an internationally recognised record of exceptional and outstanding achievements in their field. This visa supports the Australian Government's vision to attract high-calibre talent in areas critical to the nation's economic prosperity.
The Tasmanian Government offers nominations to eligible applicants to attract exceptional individuals who can contribute significantly to the state’s innovation, productivity, and economic growth. Nomination by Tasmania gives applicants Priority 2 processing with the Department of Home Affairs.
Latest NIV Update:
The Tasmanian Government officially opened its nomination program for the National Innovation Visa on 19 March 2026. Securing state nomination for the NIV in Tasmania is highly competitive. This pathway is heavily reliant on having pre-existing local connections and is often best suited for strong Global researchers, Entrepreneurs and Investors. For strong professional candidates without these ties, lodging a standard Expression of Interest (EOI) without relying on state nomination may be a much more viable choice.
If you wish to explore your eligibility for Tasmania or submit an Expression of Interest (EOI), we can assist you at every stage of the process.
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Eligibility for Tasmania Nomination
Unlike some other states, Tasmania requires applicants to have a pre-existing link to local institutions. To be considered for Tasmanian Government nomination, you must:
- Demonstrate exceptional talent through a record of internationally recognised achievement in your field.
- Have an established relationship with a Tasmanian Government department or authority, the University of Tasmania, or its associated research institutes.
- Alternatively, be recommended by a Tasmanian business that has an established relationship with a Tasmanian Government department or authority.
- Meet the Department of Home Affairs' criteria for the National Innovation Visa.
- Show a genuine commitment to live in and contribute to Tasmania.
Indicators of Exceptional Achievement
Candidates must demonstrate exceptional achievements and expertise through one or more of the following:
- Receipt of awards for exceptional and outstanding achievements (e.g., Nobel Prize, Pulitzer Prize, Olympic gold medal).
- Significant research funding.
- Academic qualifications.
- High-profile keynote appearances or global leadership roles.
- Intellectual property rights or successful commercialisation outcomes.
- Proven successful innovation or entrepreneurial activity.
- Sporting or creative achievements that enhance Australia's international reputation.
Tasmania Priority Sectors
The Department of Home Affairs and the Tasmanian Government prioritise EOIs in the following areas:
Tier One Priority Sectors:
- Critical technologies
- Renewables and low emission technologies
- Health Industries
Tier Two Priority Sectors:
- Agri-food and Ag Tech
- Education
- Defence Capabilities and Space
- Financial Services and FinTech
- Infrastructure and Transport
- Resources
The Application Process
Step 1: Assess Your Eligibility and Establish Connections
Review your achievements and ensure you have the mandatory established relationship with a Tasmanian Government agency or the University of Tasmania. If your internationally recognised expertise is of the scale and vision to deliver significant innovation, productivity and economic growth to Tasmania. The department’s representative will prepare a short business case to support your nomination. Migration Tasmania will work with the state government agency or department to complete the Form 1000 .
Step 2: Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Submit your Department of Home Affairs EOI, together with the Home Affairs Form 1000 nomination form completed by Migration Tasmania in collaboration with your nominating Tasmanian body.
Step 3: Invitation to Apply
After you submit your EOI, the Department of Home Affairs will decide whether to invite you to apply for an NIV. If invited, you must meet all the required criteria to apply for the visa.
Important Note: Nomination from Tasmania gives an EOI priority two status, but there are no fees for state nomination, and it does not guarantee an invitation or a visa grant. The Australian Government is responsible for final decisions.
Get Help with Your Application
As registered migration professionals, we offer:
- Eligibility assessments and pathway selection.
- Assistance with evaluating your ties to Tasmania and other states.
- Review and collation of supporting evidence.
- Full visa application assistance.
Complete our free NIV assessment today to explore your eligibility for the National Innovation Visa. Once we have reviewed your details, we will recommend booking an initial consultation to discuss your specific pathway and options.
Complete our free NIV assessment
Sources:
https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/national-innovation-visa-858
https://www.migration.tas.gov.au/talent_and_innovation/national-innovation-visa
