The 188 Visa program brings investors good business opportunities in Australia

Posted by Ange Everton on March 19th, 2014

In 2012, Australia opened up new possibilities to foreign investors with the introduction of the 188 Visa and the 888 Visa. The Significant Investor Visa program allows investors worldwide to do business in Australia either on short term or on a permanent basis. Every person who has AUD$5 million to invest can apply for the new Visa programs.

Would you be eligible for this Visa? Yes, you would! The Business Innovation and Investment 188 Visa has no upper age restrictions, so anyone can have access to the Australian business environment, as long as the initial $5 million investment is made. These Visa programs were designed for migrants who wanted to develop a new business in Australia. A newcomer to the Australian business environment should know that he must first apply for a Provisional 188 Visa, which is part of Australia’s business investment program.

If you are interested in this opportunity, you must first submit an expression of interest and make the initial investment of $5 million in the investment categories stated by Australian legislature. The most common categories you can invest in are: agriculture, Australian real estate, infrastructure projects, bonds, equity etc. Options vary widely, so this is a chance for you to find business prospects fitted for your needs. After this investment is made, you will be invited by government authorities to apply for the provisional Visa.

The 188 Visa only gives access to the Australian business environment for 4 years. The Visa can further be extended with an additional 4 years, after which you will have to apply for the 888 Visa, which offers permanent residency benefits. In order to obtain the 888 Visa you must be nominated by local Australian authorities and show that you have met all requirements stated in your Provisional Visa. Getting the permanent 888 Visa will allow you to continue your investment activities in Australia, as well as conduct an existing business.

The SIV (Significant Investor Visa) program has many opportunities for new investors or those planning to continue their business activity in this country. Moreover, the application can be processed faster because there are fewer requirements. For example, applicants are not asked to take an innovation points test and they needn’t be English proficient in order to qualify for the SIV. Moreover, residency is less of hassle thanks to the new Visa conditions.

Is the SIV program for you? It can be, if you have an open perspective of what the Australian business environment can offer. It may be difficult to understand which opportunities are more profitable if you aren’t familiar with the Australian environment and culture, but business and investment consultants can help you make the best decisions. If you want the application process for each of the two visas to run smoothly, you should get in contact with specialists who offer financial services for investors. They’ll give you their full support so that you can enjoy the many valuable opportunities Australia has to share.

Have you complied with all your 188 Visa requirements? Then you can apply for an 888 Visa and you’ll get permanent residency in this country.