NSW, South Australia announce new invitation-only visa program for highly skilled foreigners

New South Wales (NSW) and South Australia have released their nomination criteria for Australia’s newly launched National Innovation Visa. The program is invite-only and aims to attract individuals with globally recognised achievements in innovation, academia, investment, arts, and sports.

The National Innovation Visa is positioned as a key pathway for highly skilled individuals who can contribute to Australia’s priority sectors and economic growth. Each state has outlined separate pathways under which candidates can be considered for nomination.

In NSW, five nomination pathways are open. These include:

1. Academic and Researcher – Candidates must be conducting high-impact research aligned with the state’s strategic areas.
   
   
2. Entrepreneur – Applicants should have a proven track record in leading innovation-focused ventures.
   
   
3. Innovative Investor – Open to those who have made significant capital contributions and have supported business expansion.
   
   
4. Sports Professional – This is for athletes, coaches, and specialists with elite-level recognition in their sport.
   
   
5. Creative – Designed for artists with national or international acclaim across creative fields.
   
   

South Australia has offered five similar but distinct nomination streams:

1. Global Researchers and Thought Leaders – Academics with a record of publications, patents, or major speaking roles are eligible.
   
   
2. Entrepreneurs – This stream focuses on individuals capable of commercialising products or scaling businesses with measurable impact.
   
   
3. Innovative Investors – Open to candidates with experience in supporting or growing innovative enterprises.
   
   
4. Creative Talent – For artists or creators with global recognition in the creative industry.
   
   
5. Other Globally Talented Individuals – This flexible pathway is for applicants with exceptional achievements not captured in the above categories but considered worthy of nomination based on merit.
   
   

The National Innovation Visa is part of Australia’s efforts to attract global talent aligned with the nation’s economic and technological priorities. Nomination from a state or territory is essential for applicants to be considered for the visa.