Australia offers several pathways for foreign nationals seeking to start or invest in a business, and one of the most common routes is through a Business Visa. These visas allow individuals to establish, invest in, or manage a business in Australia. The specific investment amount required depends on the type of business visa you apply for. Below is a guide to understanding the investment requirements for various Australian business visa categories.
How Much Do I Need to Invest to Get a Business Visa in Australia
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Types of Business Visas in Australia and Their Investment Requirements
1. Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) Visa (subclass 188)
This visa is designed for individuals who wish to own or manage a business in Australia, or invest in the country. There are several streams under this visa, each with different investment requirements.
Business Innovation Stream
- Investment Requirement:
- You must have a genuine and realistic commitment to own and manage a business in Australia.
- The minimum personal assets requirement is AUD 800,000.
- The business must have been operating for at least two years and meet revenue and profitability criteria.
Investor Stream
- Investment Requirement:
- You must invest at least AUD 2.5 million in Australian state or territory bonds. This investment is required to be maintained for four years.
- This visa allows you to invest in a range of eligible assets including Australian bonds and other investments.
Significant Investor Stream
- Investment Requirement:
- You must invest at least AUD 5 million in eligible investments in Australia, such as:
- Australian government bonds,
- Direct investment in Australian companies,
- Venture capital or private equity funds, and
- Real estate in certain circumstances.
- This visa allows you to stay in Australia for up to four years, with the possibility of extending.
- You must invest at least AUD 5 million in eligible investments in Australia, such as:
Premium Investor Stream
- Investment Requirement:
- You must invest at least AUD 15 million into premium investments that benefit the Australian economy. This could include government bonds, philanthropic contributions, or investments in cutting-edge industries like technology and innovation.
- This is a temporary visa that could eventually lead to permanent residency.
2. Business Talent (Permanent) Visa (subclass 132)
This visa is for highly successful business owners or investors who want to establish or operate a business in Australia permanently. It has two main streams:
Significant Business History Stream
- Investment Requirement:
- You must have a successful business history with a net business and personal assets of at least AUD 1.5 million.
- You must also have a commitment to establishing or acquiring a business in Australia, with a potential turnover of at least AUD 3 million in the next two years.
Venture Capital Entrepreneur Stream
- Investment Requirement:
- You must be nominated by a state or territory government and have an agreement to develop or commercialize a high-value business proposal.
- Typically, this would involve securing investment backing of at least AUD 1 million from a venture capital fund.
3. Employer Nomination Scheme (ENS) (subclass 186)
While this is not specifically a business visa, the Employer Nomination Scheme allows skilled workers to work for an Australian employer. If you are planning to set up a business and later sponsor workers, this visa might be relevant. The investment requirement in this case depends on the business you plan to establish and the role you wish to sponsor.
Other Considerations
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Business Experience | Most business visa streams require that the applicant has proven experience in managing or owning a business. |
| English Proficiency | You may need to demonstrate a certain level of English proficiency. |
| Health and Character Checks | You must pass health and character assessments to qualify for a visa. |
| State or Territory Nomination | Some visa streams require a state or territory government nomination to apply. |
| Visa Fees | Fees can vary depending on the stream and visa subclass. Expect costs ranging from AUD 4,000 to AUD 15,000. |
Conclusion: How Much Do You Need to Invest?
The amount of investment required to get a business visa in Australia depends on the specific visa stream you choose:
- AUD 800,000: Business Innovation stream (subclass 188).
- AUD 2.5 million: Investor Stream (subclass 188).
- AUD 5 million: Significant Investor Stream (subclass 188).
- AUD 15 million: Premium Investor Stream (subclass 188).
- AUD 1.5 million: Significant Business History stream (subclass 132).
Each stream comes with its own set of requirements, including proof of business experience, a business proposal, and sometimes a state or territory nomination. Be sure to consult with an immigration lawyer or expert to choose the most suitable visa for your situation and ensure that you meet all the necessary criteria.
FAQs about Business Visas in Australia
1. Can I get a business visa if I don’t have the required investment amount?
- You may be eligible for alternative visas such as the Skilled Worker Visa, or other routes depending on your skills and qualifications.
2. How long does it take to get a business visa in Australia?
- Processing times vary but generally range from 6 to 12 months depending on the visa subclass and your application’s complexity.
3. Can I apply for permanent residency after obtaining a business visa?
- Yes, many business visa streams provide pathways to permanent residency after meeting certain criteria such as business growth, investment, and staying in Australia for a specified period.
4. Do I need to live in Australia to maintain my business visa?
- Yes, most business visas require you to live in Australia while you manage or operate the business.
5. Can I bring my family members with me on a business visa?
- Yes, you can include your spouse and dependent children in your visa application. They will be able to live, work, and study in Australia.
Investing in a business in Australia offers a variety of opportunities, but understanding the visa requirements and investment thresholds is crucial. Be sure to research thoroughly and consult with professionals to ensure your success in starting a business in Australia.