Migration
National Innovation Visas

National Innovation Visas

Overview

National Innovation Visas

The General Skilled Migration program aims to fill skill gaps in the Australian economy by focusing on individuals with skills in the occupation list.

Visa Types

  • Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) visa
  • Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) visa
  • Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) visa

In-demand Occupations

  • Subclass 189: An occupation on the Medium and Long‑term Strategic Skills List of LIN 19/051: Specification of Occupations and Assessing Authorities) Instrument 2019
  • Subclass 190: An occupation in the Medium and Long‑term Strategic Skills List or Short‑term Skilled Occupation List of LIN 19/051: Specification of Occupations and Assessing Authorities) Instrument 2019 (as long as it is a position nominated by a State / Territory for this category)
  • Subclass 491: Any occupation in LIN 19/051: Specification of Occupations and Assessing Authorities) Instrument 2019 (as long as it is a position nominated by a State / Territory for this category)
Overview

National Innovation Visas

The General Skilled Migration program aims to fill skill gaps in the Australian economy by focusing on individuals with skills in the occupation list.

The program covers a variety of visas, including a direct permanent residency with Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) and Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) visas, as well as a staggering provisional track with Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) (Subclass 491) visa. Those who are willing to relocate to specific regional areas will receive additional points.

Visa Types

  • Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) visa
  • Skilled Nominated (Subclass 190) visa
  • Skilled Independent (Subclass 189) visa

In-demand Occupations

  • Subclass 189: An occupation on the Medium and Long‑term Strategic Skills List of LIN 19/051: Specification of Occupations and Assessing Authorities) Instrument 2019
  • Subclass 190: An occupation in the Medium and Long‑term Strategic Skills List or Short‑term Skilled Occupation List of LIN 19/051: Specification of Occupations and Assessing Authorities) Instrument 2019 (as long as it is a position nominated by a State / Territory for this category)
  • Subclass 491: Any occupation in LIN 19/051: Specification of Occupations and Assessing Authorities) Instrument 2019 (as long as it is a position nominated by a State / Territory for this category)
Visa Overview

National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858)

The NIV attracts global talents — researchers, founders, investors, athletes, and creatives — who can drive Australia’s innovation. Applications are by invitation only following a successful Expression of Interest (EOI).

Target Market:

Global researchers, entrepreneurs, innovators, athletes, and creatives.

Target Sectors:

Critical Technologies, Health Industries, Renewable Energy, Agri-Tech, FinTech, Defence, Space and Creative sectors.

Eligibility

Eligibility for Subclass 858

Applicants must:

  • Be invited through a successful EOI
  • Show internationally recognised achievements in profession, sport, arts, or research
  • Be active and prominent in their field
  • Demonstrate benefit to Australia
  • Be nominated by an Australian with national reputation
  • Be under 55 (or show exceptional benefit if older)
  • Meet English, health, and character requirements.

Documents Required

Documents Required

EOI Stage:

  • passport
  • CV
  • qualifications
  • and Form 1000 (if nominated by agency).

Visa Stage:

  • passport bio-data pages
  • family documents
  • marriage/de facto proof
  • financial and career evidence
  • publications or awards
  • proof of English
  • police checks
  • and nominator credentials
Success Stories

Discover how we helped

  • AI Researcher

    nominated by CSIRO received NIV in 7 months

  • Hong Kong entrepreneur

    secured NIV with IP commercialisation proof

  • Creative director

    Endorsed by Australian arts council granted PR‍

Portrait of Johnny Kong, principal migration lawyer at Riverwood Migration
Policy Updates

How I Stayed in Australia After My WHV

Many Working Holiday Makers only start seriously looking into long‑term visas and migration options when their visa is close to expiring. Because of information gaps and poor planning, quite a few end up leaving Australia with regret instead of a new chapter.

Policy Updates

Three Months Left on My Visa: How I Found a Way to Stay

Three Different Roads, Three Different Ways to ‘Hustle’

Knowledge & Tips

Want to Work in Australia After Graduation? Navigate These 5 485 Visa Hurdles

485 is not a “congratulations, here’s your visa” gift that arrives automatically once you finish your course. It’s a ticket you have to proactively qualify for, with strict criteria that need planning before your final semester.

Can I apply without a nomination?

No, nomination from a qualified Australian entity or expert is mandatory.

How long does the NIV take?

Most applications finalised within 8–10 months.

Can my family be included?

Yes, spouse and dependent children may be included in the same application.

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