Your Pathway to Australian Business & Investment Migration
Important: the Business Innovation and Investment Program closed permanently to new subclass 188 applications on 31 July 2024. No new 188 applications can be lodged. Applications already on hand continue to be processed, and refunds of the visa application charge are available for withdrawn applications. Existing 188 holders may still be eligible for permanent residence through the subclass 888 visa. Looking for a current pathway? Ask us about the National Innovation visa (subclass 858) or employer-sponsored and skilled options. The information below is retained for existing 188 visa holders only.
The Subclass 188 Visa is a provisional visa for high-net-worth investors, entrepreneurs, and business owners who want to establish or develop businesses in Australia. It is the first step toward permanent residency through the Subclass 888 Business Innovation & Investment (Permanent) Visa.
Key Features of the 188 Visa
✅ Provisional visa valid for up to 5 years
✅ Multiple entry rights during visa validity
✅ Pathway to permanent residency (Subclass 888)
✅ Bring eligible family members (spouse & dependent children)
✅ Flexible investment & business options
188 Visa Streams & Eligibility
1. Business Innovation Stream
For experienced business owners who want to establish or operate a business in Australia.
Requirements:
✔ Business turnover: AUD 750,000+ (for 2 of last 4 years)
✔ Personal & business assets: AUD 1.25M+
✔ Ownership stake: 30% (for businesses under AUD 400K turnover) or 10% (for publicly listed companies)
✔ Innovation points test: Minimum 65 points
2. Investor Stream
For high-net-worth individuals willing to invest AUD 2.5M in Australian assets.
Requirements:
✔ Investment of AUD 2.5M in complying investments
✔ Business/investment experience (3+ years)
✔ Net assets of AUD 2.5M+
3. Significant Investor Stream (SIV)
For investors committing AUD 5M in complying investments.
Requirements:
✔ Investment of AUD 5M (held for at least 4 years)
✔ No upper age limit (unlike other streams)
✔ No points test required
4. Entrepreneur Stream
For innovators with funding from a third party to develop a business in Australia.
Requirements:
✔ Funding agreement of at least AUD 200K from approved investors
✔ Innovative business idea with high-growth potential
5. Premium Investor Stream (PIV)
For ultra-high-net-worth investors committing AUD 15M.
Requirements:
✔ Investment of AUD 15M in complying assets
✔ Direct pathway to PR in 12 months
How the 188 Visa Process Works
- Check Eligibility – Assess points (for Business Innovation Stream) & financial requirements
- Submit EOI (Expression of Interest) – Via SkillSelect
- Receive State/Territory Nomination – Required for all streams
- Lodge Visa Application – Within 60 days of invitation
- Visa Grant
Why Choose the 188 Visa?
🔹 Flexible investment & business options
🔹 Pathway to permanent residency (Subclass 888)
🔹 No upper age limit for SIV & PIV streams
🔹 Family can be included in the application
How Immigrad Can Help
✅ Eligibility Assessment – Determine the best stream for you
✅ Business Plan Development – For Business Innovation applicants
✅ State Nomination Support – Connect with state investment bodies
✅ Visa Application Management – Avoid delays & refusals
Start Your Australian Business or Investment Journey
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Official Resources:
Home Affairs – 188 Visa
State Nomination Requirements
Note: Immigration regulations change frequently. While we maintain current knowledge, we recommend verifying information with the Department of Home Affairs or consulting a registered migration agent.
Comparison: 188 vs 888 Visa
| Feature | Subclass 188 (Provisional) | Subclass 888 (Permanent) |
|---|---|---|
| Visa Type | Temporary (5 years) | Permanent |
| Investment Lock-in | Required | Released after PR |
| Business Obligations | Must establish operations | Must prove 2+ years of activity |
| Processing Time | Check with agent | Check with agent |
| Pathway to Citizenship | No | Yes (after 4 years total residence) |