What does invitation-only mean?
The National Innovation visa (NIV, subclass 858) does not accept direct applications. You first submit an expression of interest (EOI), and can only apply for the visa once invited.
The Form 1000 nomination
You need a Form 1000 nomination from an Australian individual or organisation with a national reputation. On the incubator pathway, the incubator helps secure it.
The process
- Sign the incubation agreement and set the innovation project’s direction
- Obtain the Form 1000 nomination and submit the EOI (about 4 weeks)
- Lodge the visa application within 60 days of invitation
- Approval usually follows in about 6 to 12 months, with permanent residence for the whole family
Competition
The NIV has priority groups, and not every EOI is invited. In the first quarter of 2026, for example, there were 1,815 EOIs and 146 invitations. Assess your competitiveness honestly before submitting.