Your Pathway to Australian Business & Investment Migration
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
📞 Call: [+61 434 294 670]
✉️ Email: [info@immigrad.com.au]
🌐 Website: [www.immigrad.com.au]
Book a Free Consultation Today
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) |