National Innovation Visa State Nomination - Victoria
The National Innovation Visa (NIV) (Subclass 858), which replaced the Global Talent Visa, is a direct, permanent residency pathway for exceptionally talented individuals across academia, various innovative enterprises, science, arts, and sport.
Why Victoria?
As of July 17, 2025, the Victorian Government opened its NIV state nomination program. If nominated by a Victorian Government department or agency, your NIV Expression of Interest (EOI) to the Department of Home Affairs is considered under Priority Two processing, which accelerates evaluation.
Who Is Eligible for Victoria’s Nomination?
Victoria is actively targeting individuals who:
- Have internationally recognised, exceptional achievements in their field
- Have engaged with a Victorian Government department or agency, demonstrating how their expertise will benefit and be transferred to Victoria
- Can secure a formal referral from that department or agency
- Meet the Department of Home Affairs criteria for Subclass 858
- Are under 55 (though exceptions are considered if you can show outstanding benefit)
- Exhibit a genuine commitment to live in and contribute to the state
What Counts as Exceptional?
In line with Ministerial Direction 112, Victoria looks for the following indicators:
- Prestigious international awards
- Major research grants or advanced academic credentials
- Global leadership roles or keynote international presentations
- Patents, commercialisation success
- Proven innovation or entrepreneurial ventures
- Sporting or creative achievements with global recognition
- Other contributions that elevate will Victoria and Australia’s international reputation
- Other indicators of exceptional, internationally recognised talent
The Application Process in Four Steps
Step 1 - Referral from a Victorian Government Department or agency
You must be identified and referred by a relevant Victorian Government department or agency in your field that can support your nomination
Step 2 - Nomination request
If your request is successful, you will receive a formal referral from that department or agency.
Step 3 - Submit your Expression of Interest (EOI) to the Department of Home Affairs
Submit your EOI using the Department of Home Affairs webform and include the nomination (Form 1000) and other supporting documents.
Step 4 – Invitation to apply for the NIV
Await an invitation to apply for the NIV, prioritized under Priority Two if nominated.
Note: Nomination does not guarantee a visa invitation. The Department of Home Affairs makes the final decision after reviewing EOIs.
Key Benefits of Victorian Nomination
- Priority Two processing gives your EOI a faster turnaround by the Department compared to non-nominated candidates
- State-endorsed legitimacy, showing genuine state-level support for your proposed contribution to Victoria
- No requirement for investment or business establishment, but emphasis on economic benefit and potential to create highly skilled jobs in Victoria
Who Should Consider This Pathway?
You may be a strong fit if you are:
- A renowned researcher, entrepreneur, or scientist with a proven track record
- An artist, performer, or athlete with international visibility
- Committed to relocating to Victoria, including Melbourne or regional innovation zones
- Wanting permanent residency with your family and the chance to contribute to Victoria’s growth sectors
Tips for a Strong Application
- Choose the Victorian agency that best aligns with your expertise (for example, biotech, creative arts, sport science)
- Craft a clear narrative showing how your work will contribute to Victoria's innovation ecosystem
- Document your achievements with strong evidence such as publications, awards, patents, or commercial outcomes
- If you are over 55 or under 18, prepare a compelling case to show the exceptional benefit you offer
Summary
Victoria’s participation in the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858) offers a fast tracked route for global experts to obtain permanent residency and contribute to one of Australia’s most dynamic and future-focused states. While nomination does not guarantee a visa, it significantly strengthens your application by qualifying it for faster processing and demonstrating your alignment with Victoria’s priorities.
If your field aligns with Victoria’s innovation goals and you are ready to make a meaningful contribution, this could be a life-changing opportunity worth exploring further. For best results, consider seeking advice from a migration specialist to help position your application for success.
If you want to check your eligibility, you can complete our free NIV assessment tool on our website - https://www.workvisalawyers.com.au/services/national-innovation-visa/free-niv-assessment.html
Or share this page if you know someone who is highly talented and who will be a good fit for the National Innovation Visa.
We can assist you with submitting your Registration of Interest, Expression of Interest, and visa application.
Please book an appointment if you need any assistance.
Sources:
- Live in Melbourne website, National Innovation Visa (subclass 858)- https://liveinmelbourne.vic.gov.au/migrate/national-innovation-visa
- Department of Home Affairs - https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/national-innovation-visa-858
