• Exceptional candidates from any sector who are global experts and recipients of international “top of field level awards”
• Receipt of a national level research grant for the highest quality research in Australia or from other countries showing that the individual is at the top of their field Holders of a PhD with high-levels of academic influence or thought leadership in their field
• Keynote Speakers at a high-profile international conference
• Applicants must have the ability to attract a salary that meets the Fair Work High Income Threshold or demonstrate that they have the potential to do so in the future
• Athletes and creatives who will raise Australia’s international standing in their field
• Have evidence of innovative investment activity with an established track record of supporting successful innovative ventures
• Have evidence of promising entrepreneurial activities that will lead to the commercialisation of a product or service in Australia, particularly where linked to Commonwealth, State or Territory based innovation hubs.
• Recognised intellectual property attributed to them, for example holding relevant international patents

Applicants need to be nominated by an eligible individual or organisation with a national reputation in their field. The nominator must endorse the applicant’s achievements and potential in their area of expertise.

Priority Sectors for Innovation:

Applicants focusing on the following sectors are highly encouraged, as these areas are critical to Australia’s economic growth and global competitiveness:

Tier One Priority Sectors:

• Critical Technologies: Innovations in areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, cybersecurity, and advanced digital technologies.
• Renewables and Low Emission Technologies: Development of sustainable energy solutions, including solar, wind, hydrogen, and other low-emission technologies.
• Health Industries: Advancements in medical research, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare delivery systems.

Tier Two Priority Sectors:

• Agri-food and AgTech: Innovations in sustainable agriculture, food production, precision farming, and agricultural technologies.
• Defence Capabilities and Space: Advancements in defence technologies, aerospace engineering, satellite communications, and space exploration.
• Education: Development of educational technologies, methodologies, and systems to enhance learning outcomes.
• Financial Services and FinTech: Innovations in financial technologies, digital banking, payment systems, and related services.
• Infrastructure and Transport: Smart infrastructure development, sustainable transport solutions, and urban planning innovations.
• Resources: Advancements in mining technologies, resource management, and sustainable extraction methods.

Why Choose the NIV Visa?

• Attract Top Talent: Australia seeks to attract the world’s best talent, driving innovation in key sectors and boosting economic growth.
• No Points Test: The GTI visa does not require applicants to undergo a points test, unlike other skilled migration visas.