National Innovation Visa (NIV) – NSW Nomination Program

The National Innovation Visa (NIV) is a prestigious, invitation-only Australian visa program that aims to attract individuals of exceptional and outstanding achievement. The Department of Home Affairs has authorised States and Territories to nominate candidates under this program. New South Wales (NSW), as Australia’s most globally connected and economically diverse state, plays a proactive role in identifying and nominating high-impact individuals who align with its strategic priorities.

Five Pathways for Nomination

1. Academic and Researcher Pathway

Who it's for: Individuals with an exceptional academic or research recordKey Requirements:

• Evidence of high-impact, original research

• Publications in high-ranking journals or significant citations

• Alignment with NSW’s economic, health, or social priorities

• Roles at top-tier institutions or prestigious fellowships

2. Entrepreneur Pathway

Who it's for: Founders or leaders of scalable, innovative businessesKey Requirements:

• Track record of founding and growing innovative ventures

• Exit history, major investments attracted, or successful commercialisation

• A viable business plan to launch/expand in NSW

• Contribution to emerging or high-growth sectors

3. Innovative Investor Pathway

Who it's for: Angel investors or venture capitalists who support early-stage innovationKey Requirements:

• Proven history of angel investments in startups

• Demonstrated success in scaling or supporting ventures

• Links with NSW innovation networks or investment funds

• Ability to mentor or connect NSW entrepreneurs with global markets

4. Sports Professional Pathway

Who it's for: Elite athletes, coaches, or sports professionalsKey Requirements:

• International or national awards, titles, or rankings

• Participation in Olympics, World Championships, or major leagues

• Coaches/specialists with long-term impact (e.g. national team coaches, sports science experts)

• Contribution to NSW’s sports development or high-performance programs

5. Creative Professional Pathway

Who it's for: Individuals in arts, design, film, literature, digital and cultural fieldsKey Requirements:

• International recognition (awards, festivals, exhibitions, published works)

• Artistic excellence and innovation in practice

• Ability to engage with NSW’s creative industry or cultural institutions

• Proven impact on cultural development or public engagement

NSW Nomination Process – Step by Step

1. Expression of Interest (EOI)

   Submit your interest online, outlining your achievements, pathway, and planned contribution to NSW.

2. Expert Review & Shortlisting

   NSW assesses EOIs based on significance of achievements, credibility, and fit with NSW goals. Experts may be consulted.

3. Invitation to Apply for Nomination

   Shortlisted individuals will receive an official invitation to submit a full nomination application.

4. Comprehensive Application & Independent Endorsement

   Applicants submit documents including evidence of claims, reference letters, and business/research plans.

   NSW will also seek third-party endorsement from a national or international authority in the applicant’s field.

5. NSW Final Decision

   Nomination is made on a holistic “on balance” test, weighing achievements and expected benefits against any risk.

6. Form 1000 and Letter of Support

   NSW will lodge Form 1000 to Home Affairs and provide a formal letter endorsing the candidate’s nomination.

7. Visa Processing and Ongoing Liaison

   NSW will support nominees through the federal visa decision stage by providing additional info if required.

NSW Nomination Priorities – What Makes a Strong Candidate?

NSW supports doers, not dreamers. Strong candidates will:

• Show evidence of real-world outcomes (e.g. commercial success, research breakthroughs, public impact)

• Be aligned with NSW’s priority sectors, including:

  • Clean energy, decarbonisation

  • Agri-tech and food innovation

  • Health and medical technologies

  • Digital technology and cybersecurity

  • Advanced manufacturing

  • Cultural and creative industries

  • Sports science and elite performance

• Have specific plans to engage in NSW (e.g. build a lab, studio, business or team in NSW)

• Provide credible third-party endorsements (e.g. industry leaders, national bodies)

• Demonstrate potential to generate jobs, investment, or global recognition for NSW

NSW NIV Key Features:

• Prioritised processing by the Department of Home Affairs once nominated

• Targeted, selective, and high-impact nomination framework

• Merit-based and transparent process