Question 1

What business visas does Australia offer?

Accepted Answer

Australia's main business visa pathways are the Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) Subclass 188 visa, the Business Talent (Permanent) Subclass 132 visa, and the Global Talent (Independent) Subclass 858 visa. Each targets different applicant profiles: the 188 series covers innovators, investors, and significant investors; the 132 targets established business owners; and the 858 is for those with exceptional achievement in a target sector.

Question 2

What is the minimum investment for a 188 visa?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the stream. The Business Innovation stream requires a net business and personal asset threshold of $800,000 and a business turnover of $750,000 or more. The Investor stream requires a minimum $2.5 million investment in a complying investment. The Significant Investor stream requires $5 million invested in complying investments for at least 4 years.

Question 3

Do I need state or territory nomination for a business visa?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Both the Subclass 188 and 132 visa pathways require state or territory nomination before you can lodge the visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Each state has its own nomination criteria, eligibility thresholds, and application process. You cannot apply for these visas directly with the Department without a valid nomination.

Question 4

How long does a business visa take?

Accepted Answer

The nomination stage varies by state and stream, typically taking 3–12 months. The visa application stage after nomination generally takes 12–24 months for the 188 and 132 visas. The 188 is a provisional visa — holders must then meet the residence and business activity requirements before applying for the permanent Subclass 888 or 132 visa.

Question 5

Is there an age limit for Australian business visas?

Accepted Answer

There is no absolute age limit for the Subclass 188 or 132 visas. However, some streams have points-based components where younger applicants score higher, and state nomination programs may impose their own eligibility criteria. Age is not a disqualifying factor, but older applicants may find it harder to achieve high points scores in streams that use a points test.

Business & Investor Visa Guides

Australia's Business Innovation and Investment Visa (188): 2026 Guide

Business Talent Visa (132): Requirements for High-Calibre Entrepreneurs (2026)

How to Choose Between the 188A, 188B, 188C, 188D, and 188E Streams (2026)

Not sure which business visa pathway is right for you?