The Australia National Innovation Visa

Australia, known for its prosperity, stability, and cultural diversity, is not only a sought-after lifestyle destination but also a hub for innovation. With robust trading links and a business-friendly regulatory environment, Australia provides ample opportunities for both local and international talents to thrive and contribute to its dynamic economy.

The National Innovation Visa (NIV) program is a streamlined pathway to permanent residence for highly skilled and talented academics, global researchers, innovative investors and entrepreneurs, as well as world-renowned athletes, artists, and entertainers. It is designed to attract individuals who would be an asset to the Australian economy and create opportunities for Australians by transferring skills, promoting innovation, and creating jobs.

Benefits of the National Innovation Visa

• Applicants are not required to make any investment in Australia
• Multi-cultural environment with a high standard of living
• Political, social, and economic stability
• No age limit (under 18 or over 55 must be of exceptional benefit to the Australian community)
• Flexible English language requirements
• Residence includes spouse, de facto or civil partner, and dependent children under 23
• Compulsory 11.5% superannuation or pension payable by employers
• Few additional requirements for citizenship

Requirements for the National Innovation Visa program

To be invited to apply for the National Innovation Visa, applicants must:

• Be internationally recognized for exceptional and outstanding achievement, remain prominent in their field, and provide evidence such as senior roles, patents, professional awards, international publications, or memberships
• Demonstrate that they would be an asset to Australia, can easily gain employment or establish themselves in their field, and contribute to the country through economic, social, cultural, academic, artistic, or sporting achievements
• Be nominated by a recognized organization or individual in Australia within the same field, or by an Australian state, territory, or federal government agency

PhD graduates from top global universities or with recent publications in top-ranked journals may also apply.

Procedures for the National Innovation Visa program

Exceptionally talented individuals can submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to the Australian Department of Home Affairs, which then invites a select number of this group to apply for a National Innovation Visa.

The Australian government processes EOIs and NIV applications based on four priority levels:

Priority 1: Recipients of top international awards

Priority 2: Applicants nominated by a relevant government agency with a supporting business case

Priority 3: Applicants demonstrating exceptional achievements in Tier 1 sectors:

• Critical Technologies
• Health
• Renewable and Low-Emission Technologies

Priority 4: Applicants demonstrating exceptional achievements in Tier 2 sectors:

• Agri-Food and AgTech
• Defence Capabilities and Space
• Education
• Financial Services and FinTech
• Infrastructure and Transport
• Resources

Although these sectors reflect the industry priorities for the NIV, exceptional talent in other areas such as entrepreneurship, investment, athletics, and the creative arts may also be eligible if nominated by a State, Territory, or Federal Government agency.