Australia launched the National Innovation Visa (NIV) in 2025, opening the way for scientists, entrepreneurs, artists and athletes from around the world. In this article, you will learn what the requirements are for candidates, how to apply, what the priority levels are and why this program is considered one of the most prestigious routes to immigration to Australia

In 2025, Australia is taking a major step in reforming its migration system. One of the key elements is the National Innovation Visa (NIV) – a new immigration route for talented researchers, entrepreneurs, scientists, artists and athletes from around the world, including citizens of Nepal, Cameroon and Romania.

This visa replaced the Global Talent Visa (GTI) and the Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP), retaining the key features of the previous programs, but at the same time gaining new emphasis and a narrower focus on innovation and critical industries.

Read about the procedure for applying for a National Innovation Visa, requirements and a package of documents in this article.

What is Australia's National Innovation Visa?

NIV (subclass 858) is a visa for individuals with internationally recognized achievements who can make a significant contribution to the development of Australia.

It is aimed at those who have exceptional achievements in the areas of:

- profession and science;

- sport;

- arts and culture;

- academic research and innovation.

NIV provides the right to permanent residence in Australia from day one.

Key requirements for obtaining an Australian National Innovation Visa

In order to qualify for a permit, applicants must:

1. Demonstrate international recognition and a high level of achievement;

2. Remain active and visible in their field;

3. Show potential benefit to the Australian economy and society;

4. Have the opportunity to find employment or work independently in the chosen field.

How is the NIV different from the Global Talent Visa?

Despite the similarity in legislative criteria, there are several important differences between the programs:

- The Expression of Interest (EOI) is now valid for 2 years (previously - a shorter period).

- Nominee not required at EOI stage (but may be required for certain categories).

- EOI form has become simpler – fewer documents, more concise.

- Priority sectors have been narrowed: now the focus is on high technology, critical innovation, energy and healthcare.

Thus, NIV has become a more niche program for people working in the field of innovation.

How to apply for NIV?

Obtaining a national innovation visa consists of two stages:

1. Submission of an Expression of Interest ( EOI );

- submitted online on the Department's website;

- free of charge, not a visa application itself;

- valid for 2 years;

- candidates are invited depending on priorities.

2. Apply for the NIV itself (only if you have been invited to apply).

- carried out through ImmiAccount;

- supporting documents (education, awards, scientific publications, patents, achievements, etc.) must be provided.

Priority groups of candidates for obtaining a NIV visa in Australia

In 2025, the NIV has 4 priority levels:

Priority 1: world leaders in their fields (Nobel laureates, Fields Medal winners, Pulitzer, Olympic champions, etc.).

Priority 2: candidates nominated by Australian government bodies (athletes, artists, entrepreneurs with breakthrough ideas, owners of international patents).

Priority 3: specialists with exceptional achievements in key areas: critical technologies, healthcare, renewable energy and low-emission technologies.

Priority 4: High-caliber professionals in the second-tier sectors: agri-food and agribusiness, space and defense technology, education, financial services and fintech, infrastructure and transport, resources.

Update to the National Innovation Visa Program for 2025

1. Visa places in 2025

The Australian Government plans to maintain the number of places under the NIV program at the same level as in 2024 at 4,000. Invitations are expected to be sent out gradually throughout the year.

Important: there are no separate quotas for states and territories. Receiving a nomination from a state does not guarantee an invitation, but significantly increases the likelihood of receiving one. Today, the vast majority of invitations are sent to candidates related to critical technologies and healthcare.

2. New nomination rules in Victoria

In 2025, Victoria joined other Australian regions in introducing its own conditions for nominating candidates for the NIV.

The mechanism looks like this:

- You must be recommended by an organization in your field - a university, industry association or, for example, Invest Victoria (for high-net-worth applicants);

- The Victorian Government checks that your activities are in line with the state's priorities;

- You must demonstrate a genuine intention to live and work in Victoria, and not just use the region as a "springboard";

- If approved, you will receive a nomination document, which is attached to your expression of interest (EOI).

Although the state is open to candidates from a variety of fields, specialists in research, innovation, enterprise, the arts and sport have the greatest chances.

3. New South Wales: ROI opens

From 30 July 2025, New South Wales (NSW) has opened the Registration of Interest (ROI) for those wishing to apply for the NIV.

Key points:

- The ROI must explain how you meet the program requirements;

- If you are shortlisted, you will have 21 days to submit a full nomination application;

- If you are not selected, you will be able to reapply only after six months;

- Detailed instructions are available on the official NSW government website.

Why is the Australian NIV visa important for applicants?

The National Innovation Visa is not a standard skilled migration.

This is a path for those who can:

- take the industry to the next level;

- carry out breakthrough research;

- launch startups with global potential;

- strengthen Australia's authority on the international stage.

In 2025, NIV is becoming one of the most prestigious paths to immigration to Australia. It is a program for strong personalities and leaders in their field who can show a concrete contribution to the future of the country.

Although the competition is high, it is NIV that can become a real “golden ticket” to Australia for innovators, scientists and artists.

Need help applying for an Australian NIV?

Applying for a National Innovation Visa is a complex process that requires proper preparation of documents, a strategic approach and understanding of the intricacies of Australian migration law.

Our migration lawyers will help you:

- assess your chances of receiving an invitation;

- prepare a package of documents (EOI and visa application);

- obtain a nomination from a state or territory;

- avoid common mistakes that can lead to refusal;

- accompany you at all stages of obtaining a visa.

Entrust your success to professionals – and increase your chances of a “golden ticket” to Australia!

Reminder! Australia remains one of the most attractive destinations for professionals from all over the world thanks to its effective SkillSelect immigration system. We have already told you how SkillSelect works, what types of visas are available and the criteria for participating in the program.

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