The New South Wales (NSW) Government is set to open nominations for the National Innovation Visa (NIV) program in early July 2025. This visa is designed to attract highly talented individuals who can contribute to Australia’s innovation-driven economy.
Eligibility Criteria:
– Demonstrated Achievement: Applicants must show tangible past achievements, not just potential to deliver.
– Alignment with NSW Priorities: Candidates should align with NSW’s strategic industries, such as tech, health, renewables, creative industries, and advanced manufacturing.
– Impact: Applicants must demonstrate impact already underway, not speculative.
Target Streams:
– Academic and Researcher: Senior academics or researchers with world-class credentials, particularly in fields strategically important to NSW.
– Entrepreneur: Founders or leaders of innovative businesses with a commercial track record and plans to scale or commercialize products/services in NSW.
– Innovative Investor: Investors with a history of funding or managing innovation-driven projects, particularly in priority sectors.
– Sports Professional: Elite athletes, coaches, or sports specialists with national or international recognition.
– Creative Professional: Accomplished artists, performers, designers, or media creators with significant international recognition.
Nomination Process:
1. Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through NSW’s online portal, capturing key information about achievements and proposed contributions.
2. Expert Review and Shortlisting: NSW nomination officers review EOIs, assessing qualitative aspects like achievement significance and credibility of plans.
3. Invitation to Apply: Shortlisted candidates are invited to apply for nomination, providing detailed documentation.
4. NSW Nomination Assessment* NSW assesses applications, seeking independent expert endorsement.
5. Nomination Decision: NSW nominates high-caliber applications, lodging a Form 1000 nomination with the Department of Home Affairs ¹ ².
Important Dates:
– July 2025: NSW nomination program opens for EOIs.
If you’re interested in applying, prepare your EOI and supporting documents, highlighting your achievements and contributions. Consider seeking professional assistance to ensure a strong application
