The New South Wales (NSW) Government has released important updates on its migration program during the recent MIA NSW/ACT Branch member event. These updates offer valuable insights for skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and innovators looking to migrate to Australia under the upcoming National Innovation Visa (NIV) and other state-sponsored pathways.
If you’re planning your migration journey to Australia in 2025, here’s what you need to know about the NSW Skilled Migration Program, nomination processes, and visa updates.
🌏 Introduction to the National Innovation Visa (NIV)
Set to open in early July 2025, the National Innovation Visa (NIV) is a groundbreaking initiative targeting highly talented individuals who can contribute to Australia’s innovation-driven economy. This visa will cater to candidates with significant achievements across five key sectors, as defined by Ministerial Direction No. 112:
- Academic and Research
- Entrepreneurship
- Innovative Investment
- Sports Excellence
- Creative Industries
NSW will nominate candidates through a competitive Expression of Interest (EOI) process aligned with its strategic priorities.
✅ Key Features of the National Innovation Visa
1. Nomination ≠ Visa Grant
NSW’s nomination supports your application but doesn’t guarantee visa approval. The final decision rests with the Department of Home Affairs, based on national standards and available quotas.
2. No Quota Allocated for NIV
Unlike other visa programs, the NIV doesn’t come with a fixed allocation for states or territories, making it highly competitive.
3. Designed for Proven Talent
Applicants must show a strong track record of innovation, not just ideas or passive investments. Repurposed business proposals from the former BIIP program will not be accepted.
4. Third-Party Validation Required
To ensure credibility, NSW will validate applicant achievements through independent experts or industry authorities.
5. No Need for External Endorsements
Unlike the former Global Talent Visa, this new visa does not require formal third-party nomination, although expert input may still be sought during the evaluation process.
6. Not for Entry-Level Candidates
The NIV is not designed for early-career professionals or fresh graduates. It is aimed at established individuals with verifiable success in their respective domains.
🗂️ NSW’s Flexible Nomination Pathways
Though nominations will fall within the five core pathways, NSW maintains a flexible approach. Exceptional individuals who surpass the expectations of Ministerial Direction No. 112 may still be considered, even if they don’t fit strictly within one category.
This adaptability ensures NSW continues to attract the best global talent, regardless of traditional boundaries.
📌 Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) – NSW Allocation Update
The NSW Government has reached its nomination allocation for the Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) for the 2024–25 program year. This means no further invitations for Subclass 190 will be issued until a new quota is provided by the Australian Government at the beginning of the 2025–26 program year.
If you’re considering applying under this category, it’s advisable to prepare in advance and watch for allocation announcements.
📍 Skilled Work Regional Visa (Subclass 491) – Pathway 2 Round
On a positive note, NSW has conducted a new invitation round for Subclass 491 (Pathway 2) today at midday. This regional pathway remains active and is ideal for skilled workers looking to settle in regional NSW.
🔚 Conclusion
The National Innovation Visa (NIV) is set to reshape Australia’s skilled migration landscape in 2025 by focusing on exceptional talent and proven innovation. With the Subclass 190 visa quota exhausted and Subclass 491 invitations ongoing, it’s crucial for migration aspirants to stay informed and act strategically.
If you are an accomplished professional ready to bring your talent to Australia, now is the time to prepare your EOI and supporting documents for a successful application.
