Question 1

Do I need to secure a NSW nomination before I can submit an EOI under the NIV program?

Accepted Answer

No, you do not need to wait for NSW nomination to submit your Expression of Interest (EOI). The process is EOI-led — you first submit your EOI directly to the Department of Home Affairs. NSW will then identify suitable candidates from this national EOI pool and invite them to proceed with the state nomination stage. However, having a competitive and well-prepared EOI is crucial to attracting NSW’s attention for nomination.

Question 2

Does receiving a NSW nomination guarantee that I will be granted a National Innovation Visa?

Accepted Answer

No. A nomination from NSW enhances your visibility in the national selection process but does not guarantee a visa grant. The final decision rests with the Department of Home Affairs, based on national selection criteria and program limits. This is highly competitive and we recommend that all applications are well prepared addressing all relevant requirements.

Question 3

Is there a limit on how many applicants NSW can nominate under the NIV program?

Accepted Answer

There is no fixed quota for state nominations under the NIV. Nominations are merit-based and highly selective. Only candidates with exceptional and verifiable achievements in their domain are likely to succeed.

Question 4

I am an early-career professional or recent graduate. Am I eligible for the NIV program?

Accepted Answer

The NIV program targets elite, globally recognised talent. It is not designed for early-career professionals or recent graduates. Candidates should present strong, tangible achievements such as internationally recognised research, commercially viable innovations, or industry-leading contributions.

Question 5

Do I still need a third-party nominator or endorsement for my NIV application?

Accepted Answer

No formal third-party endorsement is required under the new NIV framework. However, NSW may seek input from sector experts during assessment, and all applicant claims will be independently validated to ensure credibility.

Question 6

Can I apply if I was previously preparing a Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) application?

Accepted Answer

The NIV program is not designed for passive investors or recycled BIIP business proposals. It focuses on genuine innovation, leadership, and tangible achievements. We strongly recommend obtaining professional legal advice to assess whether your profile aligns with the program’s objectives.

Tag: NIV

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