Premium Investor Visa in Australia (Subclass 188D)

The Premium Investor Visa (Subclass 188D) is an exclusive pathway for high-net-worth individuals seeking residency in Australia through significant investments. The 188D Business visa is only available to applicants who are nominated by an AusTrade. Designed for those willing to invest at least AUD 15 million in approved Australian assets, this visa offers a fast-tracked route to permanent residency under the Business Innovation and Investment Program.

The Australia Premium Investor Visa is ideal for investors looking to contribute to the country’s economy while enjoying flexibility in investment choices, including managed funds, direct company investments, and philanthropic contributions. With no age limit or points test, this visa provides a streamlined process for elite investors aiming for long-term residency in Australia.

188 Visa Requirements in Australia

The Subclass 188 is a key pathway for entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish or expand their business in Australia. This visa has several streams, each with specific eligibility criteria.

General Requirements for the 188 Visa

To qualify for the visa for investors, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Nomination by an Australian State or Territory – Applicants must be invited and nominated by a state or territory government.
• Business or Investment Background – Depending on the stream, applicants must demonstrate a successful business or investment history.
• Age: You must be under 55 years of age when invited to apply.
• Minimum Investment Amount –
  • Investor Stream: AUD 2.5 million
  • Significant Investor Stream: AUD 5 million
  • Premium Investor Stream: AUD 15 million
• Meeting Financial Requirements – Applicants must prove they have legally acquired their investment funds.
• Genuine Commitment to Australia – Investors must show intent to maintain their business or investments in Australia.
• Health and Character Requirements – Must meet Australian health and security standards.

Each stream of the Subclass 188 Visa has specific criteria, so consulting a migration expert is recommended to ensure eligibility and a smooth application process.

Investment Requirements and Complying Investments

The Subclass 188 Business Innovation and Investment Visa requires applicants to invest in complying investments that contribute to Australia’s economy. The investment amount varies depending on the visa stream, and all funds must be lawfully acquired.

Investment Requirements by Visa Stream

• Investor Stream (188B): Requires a minimum investment of AUD 2.5 million in complying investments for at least four years.
• Significant Investor Stream (188C): Requires an investment of AUD 5 million, allocated as follows:
  • At least AUD 1 million in venture capital and private equity funds.
  • At least AUD 1.5 million in managed funds investing in emerging Australian companies.
  • The remaining AUD 2.5 million in balanced investments such as bonds or listed equities.
• Premium Investor Stream (188D): Requires an investment of AUD 15 million in eligible assets, including Australian businesses, philanthropy, and government bonds.

Complying Investments

To meet the visa conditions, investments must be made in:

• Managed investment funds focused on Australian assets
• Government bonds and infrastructure projects
• Private Australian companies with growth potential
• Venture capital and start-up funds

Ensuring compliance with these investment rules is crucial for visa approval. Consulting experienced agents in Australia can help navigate investment options and ensure all regulatory requirements are met.

Benefits of 188 Visa in Australia

The Subclass 188 Business Innovation and Investment Visa offers numerous advantages for entrepreneurs and investors seeking to establish themselves in Australia. This visa provides a pathway to permanent residency while allowing individuals to contribute to the Australian economy through business and investment.

Key Benefits of the 188 Visa:

• Pathway to Permanent Residency – Eligible visa holders can transition to the Subclass 888 Permanent Visa after meeting investment and business requirements.
• Multiple Investment Options – Investors can choose from government bonds, managed funds, venture capital, and direct business investments, depending on their visa stream.
• Business & Economic Growth Opportunities – Provides access to Australia’s stable economy, strong legal system, and business-friendly policies for long-term investment success.
• No Age Limit for Significant and Premium Investors – Unlike other visa categories, Subclass 188C (Significant Investor) and 188D (Premium Investor) have no age restrictions.
• Family Inclusion – Allows applicants to include spouses and dependent children, granting them access to Australia’s healthcare, education, and work opportunities.
• Flexibility in Business & Investment Management – Investors can live in and travel to Australia while managing their business or investment remotely.

The 188 Visa in Australia is an ideal option for high-net-worth individuals and entrepreneurs looking to expand their global presence while enjoying the benefits of Australian residency.

Application Process for the Subclass 188D Visa

The Subclass 188D Premium Investor Visa is designed for high-net-worth individuals willing to invest at least AUD 15 million in complying Australian investments. The application process involves several steps to ensure eligibility and compliance with investment requirements.

Step 1: Receive an Invitation

• The Subclass 188D Visa is invitation-only and requires nomination by Austrade (Australian Trade and Investment Commission).
• Prospective applicants cannot apply directly but must express interest through an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect.

Step 2: Lodge the Visa Application

• Once invited, submit the visa application within 60 days.
• Provide supporting documents, including proof of investment funds, business experience, and commitment to complying investments.

Step 3: Investment Placement

Invest AUD 15 million in qualifying Australian assets, such as:

• • Government bonds
  • Australian-managed funds
  • Philanthropic contributions
  • Direct investments in Australian businesses

Step 4: Health & Character Checks

Undergo medical examinations and provide police clearance certificates as part of the visa requirements.

Step 5: Visa Decision

• If approved, applicants receive a four-year temporary visa, allowing them to reside and invest in Australia.
• After maintaining investments for at least 12 months, holders can apply for permanent residency under the Subclass 888 Visa.

Given the complexity of the process, consulting a migration agent in Australia can help streamline the application and ensure compliance with investment regulations.

Why choose Invester visa?

The Investor Visa for Australia provides a strategic pathway for high-net-worth individuals to gain residency while contributing to the country’s economy. It offers flexibility, security, and long-term benefits for business owners and investors.

Key Reasons to Choose an Investor Visa:

• Pathway to Permanent Residency – Eligible investors can transition to an Australian PR with the guidance of a PR visa consultant, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free application process.
• Multiple Investment Options – Invest in government bonds, managed funds, or private businesses.
• No Age Limit (for Significant & Premium Investors) – More flexibility compared to other visa types.
• Family Inclusion – Bring your spouse and dependent children.
• Live, Work & Travel in Australia – Enjoy a high standard of living while managing investments.
• Stable Economy & Business-Friendly Policies – Invest in one of the world’s strongest economies.
• Flexible Residency Requirements – Some streams do not require full-time residence in Australia.

An Investor Visa is the perfect choice for high-net-worth individuals seeking business growth, financial security, and a future in Australia.

FAQ’s:

What are the processing times for this visa?

Processing times for the Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) visa (Subclass 188), including the 188D (Premium Investor) stream, can vary based on the specific stream. However, applicants should generally expect a waiting period of 15 to 36 months.

Does this visa lead to permanent residency?

Yes, after holding the 188D visa, applicants can apply for the Subclass 888 Permanent Visa, provided they meet investment and residency requirements.

Can I bring my family with me?

Yes, you can include your spouse and dependent children, allowing them to live, work, and study in Australia.

How can I apply for this visa?

You must first submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) via SkillSelect and receive an invitation from Austrade before lodging your application. For a smooth process, consulting a migration expert in Australia is recommended to ensure compliance with all requirements.