Expression of Interest (EOI)
To begin your journey toward the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858), you must submit an Expression of Interest (EOI). This outlines your intent to apply and highlights your Exceptional Talent.
Your EOI should include:
- A summary of your key achievements (e.g. awards, publications, patents, keynote presentations)
- Your qualifications
- An up-to-date CV/Resume
- Supporting recommendations
- Evidence demonstrating your innovation and research capabilities
You will also need to upload your latest CV/Resume and your highest qualification as part of the submission.
What is an EOI?
The EOI is not a visa application—it is a preliminary step expressing your interest in applying for the National Innovation Visa. Receiving an invitation after submitting an EOI does not guarantee visa approval.
All claims made in your EOI must be supported by verifiable evidence, including documentation of your achievements such as publications, patents, presentations, and awards.
If you have secured a State or Territory Government nominator, their nomination must also be included in your EOI.
You can submit your EOI yourself or through a Registered Migration Agent. If using an agent, you must complete and sign Form 956 to authorise their representation.
What Your EOI Should Demonstrate
A strong EOI clearly shows how you:
- Contribute innovative ideas that can create jobs in Australia
- Enhance the skills and capabilities of the local workforce
- Add value to Australia’s priority industry sectors
EOI Priority Order
Applications are prioritised based on the following categories:
Priority One
Globally recognised experts with top-tier international awards (e.g. Nobel Prize, Olympic Gold Medal).
Priority Two
Applicants nominated by an Australian Commonwealth, State, or Territory Government agency using the approved nomination form.
Priority Three
Candidates with exceptional achievements in Tier One sectors:
- Critical Technologies
- Health Industries
- Renewables and Low Emission Technologies
Priority Four
Candidates with strong achievements in Tier Two sectors:
- Agri-food and AgTech
- Defence and Space
- Education
- Financial Services and FinTech
- Infrastructure and Transport
- Resources
Key Priority Sectors
Critical Technologies
Includes transformative and enabling technologies such as:
- Artificial intelligence and advanced ICT
- Cyber security
- Quantum and photonics
- Robotics and autonomous systems
- Biotechnology and advanced manufacturing
- Clean energy and storage technologies
Renewables and Low Emission Technologies
Focus areas include:
- Renewable energy generation and storage
- Hydrogen and low-carbon fuels
- Carbon reduction and storage
- Circular economy innovations
- Waste-to-energy solutions
- Critical minerals processing
Innovation in Medical Manufacturing
Key areas include:
- Biotechnology and genomics
- AI in healthcare
- Pharmaceuticals and precision medicine
- Medical devices and wearables
- Infectious disease prevention
- Health economics and emerging health threats
Contact VisaConnect!
Contact VisaConnect’s Registered Migration Agents and Australian qualified Immigration Lawyers for an initial National Innovation Visa Eligibility Assessment!
If you are eligible, we can assist and advise with the complete NIV application, including the EOI, ROI for State Government and NIV 858 Visa application!
Send us an email or complete an online form on VisaConnect’s website. See our Office contact details below:
Sydney, Australia – Phone: +61 2 9151 7350
Hong Kong – Phone: +852 3840 9107
Singapore – Phone: +65 3105 1536
London, UK – Phone: +44 20 3807 8879
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