The National Innovation Visa (subclass 858) is a permanent residence visa for individuals with an internationally recognised record of exceptional achievement in their field.
The Victorian Government nominates National Innovation Visa candidates to the Australian Government to attract high-calibre, high-performing individuals who can drive innovation, productivity and economic growth in Victoria and contribute to the state’s global profile.
Nomination from the Victorian Government supports your Expression of Interest (EOI) to the Australian Department of Home Affairs and enables you to be considered under Priority Two of the visa processing pathway.
Note: nomination by the Victorian Government does not guarantee an invitation from the Australian Government to apply for the National Innovation Visa.
Basic eligibility for Victorian Government nomination
To be considered for Victorian nomination, you must:
- demonstrate exceptional talent through a record of significant achievements
- have engaged with a Victorian Government department or agency about how your internationally recognised track record and expertise will be transferred to Victoria
- be referred by a Victorian Government department or agency with expertise in your field
- meet the Department of Home Affairs’ criteria for the National Innovation Visa
- be aged under 55 (or provide a compelling case if under 18 or over 55).
- show a genuine commitment to live in and contribute to Victoria
Victorian Government departments and agencies are authorised to identify and nominate individuals in their field of expertise for the National Innovation Visa. Fields may include research, innovation, entrepreneurship, the arts, sport, or other sectors of importance to Victoria.
Indicators of exceptional achievement
Candidates must demonstrate internationally recognised achievements and expertise through one or more of the following:
- Receipt of prestigious international awards
- Significant research funding or advanced academic qualifications
- High-profile keynote appearances or global leadership roles
- Intellectual property rights or successful commercialisation outcomes
- Proven innovation or entrepreneurial activity
- Sporting or creative achievements that enhance Australia’s international reputation
- Other indicators of exceptional, internationally recognised talent
How to be nominated by the Victorian Government
Step 1. Referral from a Victorian Government Department or agency
You must be identified and referred by a Victorian Government department or agency that can support your nomination based on your internationally recognised expertise and how that expertise will be transferred to Victoria.
Step 2. Nomination request
The Victorian Government department or agency supporting your nomination will prepare your nomination document. Once complete, you can collect it directly from them.
Step 3. Submit your Expression of Interest (EOI)
Submit your Department of Home Affairs EOI together with your Victorian Government nomination to the Department of Home Affairs.
Step 4. Invitation to apply for visa
The Department of Home Affairs will make a decision on your EOI for your visa invitation.
Important: Victorian Government nomination does not guarantee an invitation. Visa decisions are made by the Australian Government.
Other Victorian Government nominated skilled visa pathways
The Victorian Government supports skilled migrants seeking to live and work in Victoria, through a range of visa nomination pathways. Learn more
Contact us
For general enquires please contact the Victorian Skilled and Business Migration program.