National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858): South Australia Nomination & Key Criteria for 2025
Published by Nationwide Migration & Education
Led by Registered Migration Agent Suman Dua (MARN: 1800859) | Brisbane, Australia
Are you a world-class innovator, researcher, entrepreneur, athlete, or creative professional looking for a direct pathway to Australian permanent residency?
Since December 6, 2024, the Global Talent Visa has officially closed — and the National Innovation Visa (subclass 858) is now Australia’s flagship PR program for exceptional global talent.
At Nationwide Migration & Education, we help high-achieving individuals secure their place in Australia through this competitive, high-priority visa.
What Is the National Innovation Visa (NIV)?
The National Innovation Visa (subclass 858) is a permanent residency visa for individuals with internationally recognised records of outstanding achievement across sectors such as:
Profession
Sport
The Arts
Academia & Research
Innovation & Entrepreneurship
To apply, you must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect and be invited by the Department of Home Affairs (DHA).
From Global Talent to National Innovation
Global Talent Visa closed to new applications on 6 December 2024
Replaced by the National Innovation Visa with updated priority processing bands
Focuses on government-nominated individuals and sector-based excellence
DHA Eligibility Criteria
To lodge a valid EOI and receive an invitation, you must:
Demonstrate an internationally recognised record of achievement
Be in a targeted field (profession, sport, arts, research, etc.)
Meet health and character requirements
Be of any age (under 18 or over 55 must show exceptional benefit)
Be onshore (on a substantive visa) or offshore at time of application
Merit-based assessment applies after the invitation stage.
Understanding Priority Bands
Invitations are issued in this order:
Global experts with awards (e.g. Nobel Prize, Fields Medal)
State or Commonwealth nominated candidates (Form 1000)
Talent in Tier One sectors (e.g. AI, Health, Renewable Energy)
Talent in Tier Two sectors (e.g. AgriTech, FinTech, Education)
State nomination boosts your EOI to Priority 2—just behind the world’s top award recipients.
South Australia’s Nomination Criteria for NIV
South Australia is now accepting Registrations of Interest (ROI) for NIV nomination.
Who Can Apply:
Onshore (on substantive visa) or offshore
Must meet DHA baseline criteria
Must be nominated by a South Australian government agency
Eligible Talent Categories & Evidence:
Researchers & Thought Leaders
National/international research grants
International keynote speaker roles
Patents/IP ownership
PhD from top-100 university + strong h-index
Entrepreneurs
Plan to commercialise a product or launch a high-growth startup
Sector expertise and business operations in SA
No minimum investment required, but strong business plan essential
Innovative Investors
Past success in high-growth investments or IPOs
Future investment strategy in SA
Managed funds considered only in exceptional cases
Creative Talent
Global awards/achievements in arts, film, music, design, or literature
Other Exceptional Talents
Assessed case-by-case with evidence of global impact and benefit to SA
Aligning Federal and State Criteria
Here’s how to strengthen your case:
Match your achievements to both DHA priority bands and SA nomination categories
Prepare dual-purpose documentation (e.g. awards, publications, impact reports)
Clearly outline your economic, innovation, or social contributions to SA
Secure endorsements from credible agencies, institutions, or leaders
Coming Soon: NSW & Queensland NIV Nominations
Both New South Wales and Queensland have announced plans to open nominations. Our team will release updates and specific criteria once they’re confirmed.
Stay tuned or contact us to be added to our Priority Notification List.
Why Work with Nationwide Migration & Education?
The NIV is highly competitive—and success depends on presenting the strongest possible case.
At Nationwide Migration & Education, we have:
Helped dozens of applicants secure the former Global Talent Visa and now the NIV
Deep expertise in crafting EOIs, state nominations, and compelling submissions
A proven track record of successful outcomes in permanent residency cases
FAQs: National Innovation Visa & SA Nomination
Is there a minimum investment amount required for SA nomination?
No, but applicants must provide a strong business or investment strategy with clear benefits to South Australia.
Do I need to be onshore to apply?
No. Both offshore and onshore applicants (on a valid visa) are eligible.
What are my chances if I don’t have a state nomination?
Your EOI will fall into Priority 3 or 4. State nomination boosts you to Priority 2, significantly increasing your chances.
Take the First Step Toward Your Innovation Visa
Think you're eligible—or want to find out?
Book your consultation with Nationwide Migration & Education. We’ll assess your profile, identify your best nomination strategy, and help you confidently move toward permanent residency.
Ready to Get Started?
Book your consultation now and let’s secure your future together.
Disclaimer:
The information shared by Nationwide Migration and Education is for general informational purposes only. While accurate at the time of publication, details may change. This content is not intended as legal or migration advice. For advice tailored to your circumstances, please book a consultation with us.
