Australia’s business immigration and investment visas provide plenty of opportunities to overseas investors and entrepreneurs seeking permanent residency in Down Under. The visas are for people with business skills and the potential to bring innovative business ideas to Australia’s economy. However, for the first time in history, Australia’s government introduced some notable changes in its Australia business visa categories from July 2021. The changes were aimed to make these programs more streamlined and provide a more straightforward route to permanent residency for all applicants.The existing nine visa streamlines were shortened to four streams: Business Innovation, Investor, Significant Investor, and Entrepreneur.

Australia is a popular business investment destination in the world. The refinement of the nine streams aims to boost foreign investment while making it easier for investors to settle in the country.

Business Innovation Visa Stream

The business innovation stream is designed for those who already own and run their business. The visa route is open for investors who are above 45 years.

To apply, the investor must score a minimum of 65 points in SkillSelect and be under 55 years old. However, the nominating state may choose to waive the age barrier if the business is successful and brings economic benefits.

The business innovation stream is valid for five years from the date of issuance.

Investment Requirements

• 25 million if you were invited to apply for this visa on or after 1 July 2021
• AUD800,000 if you were invited to apply for this visa before 1 July 2021

Investor Visa Stream

This visa is for eligible business owners with successful business management experience. As an Australia investor visa, the pathway requires you to obtain a minimum of 65 immigration points, and invest at least AUD 1.5 million into an Australian state or territory government bonds, and hold that investment for four years. You must also have net business and personal assets of at least AUD 2.25 million.

Entrepreneur Visa Stream

The visa stream requires the investor to secure a nomination by an Australian state or territory. You must also demonstrate a viable business plan for your product and services. To qualify, you need to have a funding agreement of at least AUD 200,000 from an approved entity to establish your business activities in Australia.

Significant Investor Stream

The pathway allows individuals to move to Australia after investing AUD5 million into complying investments in Australia and maintaining investment activities in Australia’s specific state/territory. The applicants must hold the investment for at least five years.

You must be nominated by a state or a territory government in Australia to qualify.

Applying for an Australian investor visa can be a daunting and confusing process. Get in touch with Abhinav Immigration Services to assess your profile and help you start the process based on your business needs.