NSW Outlines Nomination Pathways for National Innovation Visa

The NSW Government has outlined how it will support nominations under the National Innovation Visa (NIV - Subclass 858), ahead of the program’s expected launch in early July 2025.

NSW will nominate NIV candidates through an Expression of Interest (EOI)-driven process and assess applicants under five defined talent pathways. This article explores NSW's nomination requirements and application process. It also includes updates on the current status of the NSW skilled migration program.

What is the National Innovation Visa?

The NIV is a highly sought after visa, designed to replace and modernise aspects of the former Global Talent and Business Innovation programs. It targets exceptional individuals with a proven track record of innovation and achievement in key sectors.

The NIV is highly competitive and merit-focused. It can only be applied for by invitation. To be considered for an invitation, interested individuals must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). The Australian Department of Home Affairs has given states and territories the opportunity to nominate selected candidates. Once nominated, they are prioritised by Home Affairs over other candidates.

NSW Nominations

NSW plans to open its NIV nomination process in early July 2025. Interested candidates must submit a separate EOI to NSW, in addition to the EOI submitted to Home Affairs. NSW will invite and assess candidates through a standalone process and issue Form 1000 to successful applicants.

NSW will target individuals who meet the Australian Government’s criteria of “exceptional and outstanding achievement” whilst also having a clear alignment with NSW’s strategic interests – whether economic, scientific, cultural or sporting. According to the NSW Government, the EOI-nomination process will focus on overall quality and achievement, rather than fixed scores or thresholds, in line with the purpose of the NIV program.

NSW NIV Pathways

NSW nominations will be aligned with national NIV settings and have five NIV nomination pathways:

• Academic and Researcher

• Entrepreneur

• Innovative Investor

• Sports Professional

• Creative Professional

Each pathway will have a unique set of requirements.

What A Nomination Means—And What It Doesn’t

It’s important to clarify that state nomination is not a visa grant, nor an invitation to apply for the NIV. NSW can nominate candidates, but the decision to invite a candidate to apply for the NIV is made by the Department of Home Affairs.

Unlike the subclass 190 or 491 visa programs, there is no allocation or quota for NIV nominations at the state/territory level. This means nomination does not guarantee selection or invitation—it merely boosts the candidate's priority in the Home Affairs selection process.

NSW Migration Program Updates

The NSW Government has also confirmed the following skilled visa developments:

Subclass 190: Nomination Allocation Exhausted

NSW has reached its allocation limit for subclass 190 nominations for the 2024–25 program year. No further invitations will be issued until the next allocation is provided in 2025–26.

Subclass 491 Pathway 2: Invitation Round Conducted

NSW conducted an invitation round for the subclass 491 Skilled Work Regional visa – Pathway 2 on 6 June 2025.

Closing Thoughts

The National Innovation Visa is a continuation of Australia's effort to attract and retain exceptional global talent. NSW’s five-pathway model offers a structured but flexible route for highly accomplished individuals to gain nomination under this program.

The eligibility bar is set high. Strong documentation, truly exceptional and verified achievements, and sectoral relevance will be essential. We expect the program to attract a high level of interest once it opens in July. If you are a high-performing individual considering a NSW NIV nomination, now is the time to begin preparing your EOI.

Stay tuned for further updates on Australia’s evolving skilled visa programs. Subscribe to the next ImmiUpdate below. For more information please Contact Us or email elan@ryshermigration.com.au

Elan Rysher is a Registered Migration Agent and Qualified Student Counsellor. He is the main Writer for ImmiUpdates and the founder of Rysher Migration. Being a former migrant himself, Elan is passionate about helping others fulfil their Australian dream.

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