South Australia Opens Nominations for the National Innovation Visa: A Strategic Call to Global High Achievers

The Government of South Australia, through Migration SA, has formally commenced nominations for the prestigious National Innovation Visa (NIV) under the Subclass 858 Global Talent program. This marks a critical advancement in Australia’s strategy to attract world-class individuals whose expertise and track record can directly contribute to the state’s economic, scientific, cultural, and social prosperity.

This nomination pathway is designed for those with exceptional and outstanding achievements in key sectors aligned with South Australia’s strategic vision for innovation-led growth.

Overview - What is the National Innovation Visa?

The National Innovation Visa (NIV), Subclass 858, is a streamlined permanent visa pathway for global individuals with demonstrated excellence and global recognition in their respective fields. Unlike traditional skilled visas, this invitation-only program prioritizes individuals with significant impact, leadership status, and a capacity to drive innovation, investment, and job creation.

States and Territories - including South Australia have been empowered to identify and nominate candidates who meet the Commonwealth's exceptionally high standards under Ministerial Direction No. 112.

South Australia's Strategic Focus Areas

In line with federal priorities and regional economic planning, Migration SA is focused on nominating individuals who:

• Create or attract innovative, scalable business models

• Drive research commercialization or institutional partnerships

• Have a track record in early-stage innovation investment

• Advance high-performance sport, cultural enrichment, or creative industries

• Promote regional and sustainable economic development

Five Nomination Pathways Available

South Australia will nominate eligible individuals across five talent categories:

1. Academic & Research: For globally recognized researchers contributing to fields such as advanced manufacturing, climate science, health innovation, or data science.

2. Entrepreneurship: For founders or C-suite leaders with proven success in launching or scaling innovation-led ventures.

3. Innovative Investment: For individuals with a documented history of angel investment in high-growth startups and active involvement in their success.

4. Sports: For elite athletes, coaches, or performance specialists with international accolades and active involvement in advancing the sport in Australia.

5. Creative Industries: For artists, filmmakers, designers, and cultural leaders whose work has achieved national or international distinction.

Legislative Framework and Selection Process

South Australia follows a merit-based, invitation-only nomination process, aligned with federal requirements:

• All candidates must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via the official portal.

• EOIs are reviewed holistically, considering evidence of past achievement, sector relevance, and fit with South Australia’s strategic goals.

• Shortlisted applicants are invited to provide full documentation, including references, proof of achievement, and a detailed future contribution plan.

• Final nominations are submitted to Home Affairs using Form 1000, accompanied by an official Letter of Support from the South Australian Government.

This process ensures that only high-impact individuals who can contribute immediately and meaningfully to Australia's national interest are nominated.

Why this matters for Australia?

This initiative reflects a broader evolution in Australian migration policy - from labour-driven to value-driven migration. By prioritizing talent that fosters economic transformation, knowledge generation, and cultural leadership, South Australia positions itself as a magnet for the world’s most capable and visionary individuals.

It also highlights Australia’s shift toward migration as a nation-building tool - not only welcoming individuals with technical skills, but those with demonstrated capacity to build industries, influence sectors, and inspire international collaboration.

Final Thoughts: A Smart Migration Policy for a High-Talent Future

Australia’s global competitiveness depends not only on funding science, technology, and entrepreneurship - but on welcoming those who know how to scale it.

By embedding angel investment within the National Innovation Visa framework, NSW and Australia more broadly are inviting global investors to take part in shaping the country's innovation future - while offering a migration pathway grounded in real value creation.

Final Remarks from Newsted Global

The opening of National Innovation Visa nominations by Migration SA sends a clear message: Australia is open to those who lead through innovation, not just occupation.

At Newsted Global, we specialize in supporting distinguished individuals and their families through complex, high-level migration programs. We offer tailored strategy, documentation support, and representation to ensure your profile aligns with both state nomination requirements and federal policy expectations.

📩 Reach out at info@newstedglobal.com.au 🌐 Learn more at www.newstedglobal.com.au

Newsted Global, Migration Agent, Education Agent, National Innovation Visa NSW 2025, Angel Investor Visa Australia, Academic Researcher Migration Australia, Entrepreneur Visa NSW, NSW State Nomination Steps, Subclass 858 Visa, Australia Global Talent Visa Alternative, Investment Migration NSW, Startup Visa Australia, Where your Global Journey Begins