Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 888)
The Subclass 888 visa allows eligible business and investor visa holders to apply for permanent residency in Australia after meeting the requirements of their relevant stream.
Although many Subclass 188 visa streams are now closed to new applications, existing visa holders may still need advice about Subclass 888 eligibility, extension options, compliance requirements and application timing.
- Permanent residency pathway
- Business and investment streams
- Extension options may apply
- For eligible Subclass 188 holders
What is the Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 888)?
The Business Innovation and Investment visa (Subclass 888) is a permanent residency visa designed for eligible holders of the Business Innovation and Investment visa (Subclass 188).
This visa allows eligible applicants to continue living in Australia permanently after meeting business, investment or residency requirements linked to their previous provisional visa.
The right strategy often depends on your business performance, investment history, nomination status and compliance with your previous visa conditions.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants may be eligible if they currently hold or previously held an eligible Subclass 188 visa and meet the requirements of their nominated stream.
- Current or former Subclass 188 holders
- Applicants nominated by a state or territory government where required
- Applicants who maintained qualifying investments where required
- Applicants who meet residency and business requirements
Common Subclass 888 Streams
Business Innovation Stream
For applicants actively operating a qualifying business in Australia.
Investor Stream
For applicants who maintained qualifying investments in Australia.
Significant Investor Stream
For applicants who maintained complying significant investments.
Key Eligibility Requirements
Requirements vary depending on your stream but may include:
- Meeting business turnover requirements
- Maintaining ownership interest in an eligible business
- Meeting residency requirements
- Maintaining qualifying investments
- Ongoing nomination requirements where applicable
- Providing supporting business records
Required Documents
Documents vary depending on the stream and circumstances, but applicants may need to provide:
- Business financial records
- Tax documentation
- Business registration documents
- Investment documentation
- Evidence of residency in Australia
- Identity documents
- Nomination documentation
Need More Time to Meet Subclass 888 Requirements?
Some holders of the Business Innovation and Investment visa (Subclass 188) may be eligible for an extension if they have not yet met the requirements for permanent residency under Subclass 888.
Depending on your visa stream and circumstances, additional time may be available to help you meet business turnover requirements, investment requirements or residency obligations.
Extension eligibility depends on your individual visa history and should be reviewed carefully before your current visa expires.
Common Mistakes
- Applying before meeting business turnover requirements
- Poor financial documentation and incomplete records
- Misunderstanding residency requirements
- Selling business assets too early
- Investment compliance issues
- Missing nomination requirements
Visa Application Charges and Processing Times
Visa application charges and processing times change regularly. Applicants should review the latest official information before lodging an application.
Official Visa Application Charges
Check the latest Subclass 888 visa application charges published by the Department of Home Affairs.
View Current Visa ChargesOfficial Visa Processing Times
Processing times vary depending on the application, supporting documents and Department workload.
View Processing TimesFrequently Asked Questions
What if I have not met the Subclass 888 requirements before my 188 visa expires?
Some applicants may qualify for extension options depending on their stream and circumstances.
Can I apply if my business turnover dropped?
This depends on your stream, business performance and supporting evidence.
Can I spend long periods outside Australia?
Some streams include residency requirements which should be reviewed carefully.
Can I sell my business before applying?
Selling too early may affect your eligibility depending on your stream.
Can family members be included?
Eligible family members may be included depending on your application circumstances.
Book a Business Visa Consultation
Need help transitioning from Subclass 188 to permanent residency?
