Victorian Government Nominations open for National Innovation Visa (subclass 858)

The Victorian Government has officially opened its nomination program for the National Innovation Visa (subclass 858), offering opportunities for exceptionally talented individuals to contribute to the state’s innovation agenda and economic growth.

Under the subclass 858 visa, nominations made by an Australian state or territory government agency are accorded ‘Priority 2’ processing status by the Department of Home Affairs, expediting the consideration of eligible applications.

Victoria is seeking to nominate high-calibre, high-performing individuals who demonstrate the potential to drive innovation, boost productivity, and enhance the state’s global competitiveness across a range of sectors.

Victorian State Government Nomination – Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for Victorian Government nomination for the subclass 858 National Innovation Visa, applicants must:

• Demonstrate exceptional talent, evidenced by a sustained record of significant achievement in their field.
• Engage with a Victorian Government department or agency, outlining how their internationally recognised expertise will be applied in and benefit Victoria.
• Be referred by a Victorian Government department or agency with recognised expertise in the applicant’s field.
• Meet the Department of Home Affairs’ eligibility requirements for the subclass 858 visa.
• Be under 55 years of age, unless a compelling case is made (applicants under 18 or over 55 may be considered in exceptional circumstances).
• Show a genuine intention to live in and contribute to Victoria, both professionally and socially.

Fields of Interest

While the Victorian Government has not restricted nominations to specific sectors, it has indicated a broad interest in fields that are aligned with the Department of Home Affairs priority sectors:

• Research and development
• Innovation and technology
• Entrepreneurship and commercialisation
• The arts and creative industries
• Sport
• Other areas that are strategically significant to Victoria

Ethos Migration Lawyers can assist individuals looking to explore a Victorian nomination and make representations on their behalf with relevant Victorian government agencies on how they can contribute to the state and be considered for a nomination. Contact us for further assistance.