What business visas are available in Australia?

The Business Innovation and Investment visa (Subclass 188) was the main temporary business visa, with streams for Business Innovation, Investor, Significant Investor, and Entrepreneur, leading to the permanent Subclass 888. However, the Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) closed to new applications on 31 July 2024. New business and investor migrants are now directed to the National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858). Existing 188 holders can still progress to the 888.

What is the minimum investment required for an Australian investor visa?

The Significant Investor stream (Subclass 188D) requires a minimum complying investment of AUD 5 million. The standard Investor stream requires a designated investment of at least AUD 1.5 million. The Business Innovation stream does not have a fixed investment amount but requires a business with an annual turnover of at least AUD 500,000.

Can a business visa lead to permanent residency in Australia?

Yes, for existing holders. Subclass 188 (Business Innovation and Investment) is a temporary visa that provides a pathway to the permanent Subclass 888. You must meet ongoing business, investment, and residency obligations over the provisional period — typically 4 years — before applying for the permanent visa. Note: the BIIP closed to new 188 applications on 31 July 2024, so this pathway is only available to those who already hold a 188.

Australia Business Innovation & Investment Visa (188/888)

⚠ The Business Innovation & Investment Program (BIIP) is closed The Department of Home Affairs stopped accepting new 188 (and new BIIP EOI) applications on 31 July 2024. Only existing 188 holders can still progress to the permanent 888 visa or lodge extensions. New business and investor migrants are now directed to the National Innovation Visa (subclass 858). This tool is retained for reference and for existing 188 holders — it does not reflect an open application pathway.

Step 1 of 3

What best describes your situation?

We'll guide you to the right Business Innovation and Investment visa stream.

🏢 I own or run a business Looking to establish or manage a business in Australia — Subclass 188A Business Innovation 💼 I want to make a significant investment Looking to invest AUD $1.5M–$5M in state-designated assets — Subclass 188B/188C 🚀 I have a startup / entrepreneurial venture 🏡 I already hold a 188 visa (seeking PR) Ready to transition to permanent residence — Subclass 888

Step 2 of 3 — Business Innovation (188A)

What is your business's annual turnover?

Average over at least 2 of the last 4 fiscal years. This is a key threshold for the 188A stream.

📉 Below the minimum threshold for most states 📊 Meets base threshold; eligible for nomination from most states 📈 Over AUD $2 million Strong profile — many states prioritise high-turnover businesses

Step 2 of 3 — Investor / Significant Investor

What level of investment are you planning?

This determines which investor stream applies — Investor (188B) or Significant Investor (188C).

💰 AUD $1.5 million State/territory bond investment for 4 years — Investor stream (188B) 💎 AUD $5 million Complying investment portfolio — Significant Investor stream (188C), no age/English minimum 🏦 AUD $15 million+ Premium Investor stream (188D) — invitation only from Austrade

Step 2 of 3 — Entrepreneur (188E)

What is the source of your venture funding?

💼 Venture capital firm 🚀 Accelerator / incubator program Australian government-approved startup accelerator 🏛️ Commonwealth government agency Including Austrade or a state/territory government body 🔍 I don't have a funding agreement yet A complying funding agreement is mandatory — let's explore options

Step 2 of 3 — Subclass 888 Permanent Residence

How long have you held your Subclass 188 visa?

The time you've held your 188 determines when you can apply for permanent residence under Subclass 888.

⏳ Less than 2 years Not yet eligible for 888 — must maintain business/investment activity 📅 Potentially eligible — depending on stream and activity requirements met ✅ Over 4 years Well within the window — PR application should be straightforward

Step 3 of 3

What is your age?

Most streams require applicants to be under 55 years old, though some states/territories may grant waivers for high-value applicants.

🟢 Under 45 🟡 45 – 54 🔶 55 – 64 Age waiver may apply for exceptional cases ℹ️ 65 or over 188C Significant Investor has no age limit

Your Stream Match

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Business and investor visas require expert guidance

These visas involve strict thresholds, state nomination competition, and significant financial commitment. Our MARA-registered agents specialise in 188 and 888 applications.

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Important disclaimer ▼

IMPORTANT: Business and investor visa requirements are complex, frequently updated, and involve substantial financial commitment. This calculator provides general estimates only. Results do not constitute immigration advice, are not legally binding, and do not guarantee any immigration outcome. Eligibility depends on factors including state/territory nomination criteria, business activity, net asset thresholds, government policy changes, and individual circumstances not captured here. Consult a registered MARA agent for advice specific to your situation before making any financial or business decisions in reliance on this information. Information is current as of March 2026 and subject to change without notice.

MARA Registered (MARN 2518872) · RCIC Certified (R705748). Full disclaimer →

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Business and investor visas require expert guidance