Start or run a business in Australia

Australia’s Business Class
For entrepreneurs and investors

Are you interested in starting or running a business in Australia? If so, you may be eligible for a visa in the Business Class category. While this category is primarily designed for entrepreneurs and investors, it also offers opportunities for retired individuals looking to make a fresh start.

Entrepreneurs and investors will be assessed based on their past achievements, business performance, and turnover in their home country. For this reason, it’s important that you have ownership or proven experience in managing a business. The specific requirements will vary depending on the visa you apply for.

When applying for a permanent residence visa, the process involves two stages. First, you’ll apply for a temporary visa, which is valid for four years. Once your business is successfully established in Australia, you can transition your temporary visa into a permanent residence visa.

Below, you’ll find an overview of the subcategories within Australia’s Business Class, helping you explore the best options for your entrepreneurial journey.

Sub categories Business Class

Business Innovation and Investment stream

Visas within this category initially offer temporary residence, valid for four years and three months. After this period, you can apply for permanent residency. The Business Innovation and Investment stream is divided into five subcategories, each designed to support different aspects of entrepreneurship and investment in Australia.

Business Innovation stream

This stream is designed for individuals with proven entrepreneurial skills who are eager to start a new business in Australia or manage and grow an existing organization. You may qualify for a visa through State Nomination if you meet the following requirements:

  • You are under 55 years of age
  • Based on your profile, you can score at least 65 points in the points test
  • You have achieved a turnover of at least AUD 500,000 in at least two of the last four years
  • You are an owner of the organisation with at least 30% interest
  • Your personal financial assets are valued at a minimum of AUD 800,000.-

Entrepreneur stream

The Entrepreneur Stream is designed for candidates with financing agreements from a third party, with a minimum of AUD 200,000 to support entrepreneurial activities in Australia. This can include managing the commercialization of a product or service or developing an organization. To qualify, you’ll need a solid command of the English language and State Nomination.

Investor stream

If you’re able to invest a minimum of AUD 1.5 million in an Australian fund, this subcategory could be the perfect fit for you. To qualify, you’ll also need to be nominated by an Australian state or territory. This opportunity offers a rewarding way to contribute to Australia’s economy while benefiting from its growing investment landscape.

Significant investor stream

As the name suggests, the Significant Investor Stream is designed for individuals who are ready to make a substantial investment, with a minimum of AUD 5 million. Like the other subcategories, state nomination is required, providing you with a fantastic opportunity to contribute to Australia’s economy while enjoying the benefits of living and investing in this vibrant country.

Premium investor stream

In addition to the ‘Investor’ and ‘Significant Investor’ streams, the Australian Department of Home Affairs also offers the ‘Premium Investor Stream.’ This exclusive stream is designed for individuals who can invest a minimum of AUD 15 million, providing a unique opportunity to make a substantial impact on Australia’s economy.

Would you like more information on your visa options within the business class? Please contact our visa specialists, or fill out the free Visa Check for an assessment of your eligibility.

Business Talent visa

Especially for talented entrepreneurs, the Business talent visa is introduced. It is the only visa subclass within the Business Class that leads to a permanent residence status immediately. Accordingly, strict requirements must be satisfied:

  • Firstly, you must be under 55 years of age
  • Your financial assets (within the company) were at least AUD 400,000.- in two of the four years
  • Furthermore, the turnover of your company amounts at least AUD 3,000,000.- in two of the four years
  • You are an owner of the organisation with at least 30% interest
  • Your personal assets amounts at least AUD 1,500,000.- and is available for investment in Australia within two years

Besides the requirements mentioned above, each applicant must undergo a medical examination. Furthermore, it is important that no criminal offences have been committed. At last, you must satisfy a minimum score in Australia’s points test.

Retirement visa

This visa allows retired candidates to come to Australia. You must be at least 55 years of age.

Since a major investment must be made, this visa belongs to the ‘Business and Investor Category’.  It concerns a temporary visa which cannot be converted to a permanent residence status ever. After your first four years in Australia, you can extend your stay with another four years (every four years). To acquire this extension, a new investment must be made.

  • You are at least 55 years of age
  • You do not have any financial dependents (children)
  • You must be nominated by an Australian State or Territory (Australian Capital Territory excluded)
  • Your personal assets must be:
    • AUD 1,000,000.- when you would like to settle in Regional Australia. Of this total amount, at least AUD 500,000.- must be invested in an Australian fund
    • AUD 1,500,000.- if you would like to settle in metropolitan areas. In this case, an investment of AUD 750,000.- must be made
  • You (and your partner) have an annual income of:
    • AUD 50,000 if settling in regional areas
    • AUD 65,000 if settling in metropolitan areas
  • You (and your partner) must be covered for all medical expenses during your stay in Australia
  • You are in good health and have a clean criminal record

This visa also allows you to work up to 40 hours per fortnight, giving you the flexibility to remain active while you enjoy all that Australia has to offer.