So, thinking business? Thinking borders? The Australia Business Visa says, “Welcome!”
Australia has always rolled out the red carpet for global dreamers, and that includes business minds with bold visions. With its booming economy and immigration-friendly stance, Australia has become a hotspot for entrepreneurs and professionals looking to expand their horizons.
This blog covers everything you need to know about Australia business visa, from visa types and requirements to fees and timelines, especially for applicants from India and beyond.
Stick around, your Australian business journey starts right here.
Table Of Content
1What is a Business Visa in Australia2Types of Business Visa in Australia3Australia Business Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens4How to get Australia Business Visa5Australia Business Visa Processing Time6Australia Business Visa Fees7Australia Business Visa Minimum Investment8Difference between Business Visa and Tourist Visa9Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Business Visa in Australia
The Australia Business Visa is designed for individuals who mean business, literally. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur, an investor eyeing global markets, or a professional flying in for meetings and deals, this visa opens the door to Australia’s vibrant economic landscape. It allows you to travel for business-related activities like attending conferences, forming partnerships, exploring investments, or even setting up a new venture.
There are several subclasses under the Australia Business Visa category, including short-term visitor visas for business purposes and long-term visas for entrepreneurs and investors looking to establish a presence in Australia. The visa you choose depends on the nature and duration of your business plans.
Types of Business Visa in Australia
Australia offers various business visas for investors, entrepreneurs, and business owners, each suited to different goals and investment levels. Let’s take a look at the types of business visa in Australia
1. Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) – Business Visitor Stream
Ideal for short business visits, this visa allows individuals to attend meetings, conferences, or explore business opportunities. However, it does not permit paid work or commercial activities.
Subclass | Visa Type | Purpose | Status |
---|---|---|---|
600 – Business Visitor Stream | Temporary | Attend business events, meetings, or negotiations | Open |
2. Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 188)
This provisional visa offers multiple streams based on your intent, whether to establish a business, invest funds, or pursue entrepreneurial ideas in Australia. It’s valid for up to 5 years and serves as a stepping stone to permanent residency.
Stream | Visa Type | Purpose | Status |
---|---|---|---|
Business Innovation | Temporary (Provisional) | Start or manage a business | Closed (from July 31, 2024) |
Investor | Temporary (Provisional) | Investment in Australian state/territory | Closed |
Significant Investor | Temporary (Provisional) | Invest in complying investments | Closed |
Premium Investor | Temporary (Provisional) | High-value investment in Australian assets | Closed |
Entrepreneur | Temporary (Provisional) | Launch an innovative venture with funding | Closed |
Current Subclass 188 holders can still apply for a permanent visa under Subclass 888.
3. Permanent Business Visas
Once applicants meet the business or investment obligations under their provisional visa, they may be eligible to transition to permanent residency through the following subclasses:
Subclass | Visa Type | Purpose | Status |
---|---|---|---|
888 | Permanent | For eligible Subclass 188 holders continuing business/investment | Open |
890 | Permanent | For individuals running a business in Australia | Open |
891 | Permanent | For those holding a long-term designated investment | Open |
892 | Permanent | For state/territory-nominated business owners | Open |
893 | Permanent | For state/territory-nominated investors | Open |
4. Business Talent Visa (Subclass 132)
This visa was once the direct permanent residency route for experienced entrepreneurs with significant backing or capital. However, it has been permanently closed since July 1, 2021.
Subclass | Visa Type | Purpose | Status |
---|---|---|---|
132 | Permanent | For business owners or entrepreneurs with high-level assets or VC funding | Closed |
Other Related Options to Note:
- Global Talent Visa (Subclass 858):
Not strictly a business visa, but ideal for entrepreneurs and tech innovators in targeted industries. Fast-tracked PR for high-achievers. - Temporary Activity Visa (Subclass 408 – Invited Participant Stream):
Sometimes used for short-term business collaborations or investor-related roles in Australian projects. - Temporary Skill Shortage Visa (Subclass 482):
For professionals sponsored by Australian employers, can include roles in the business and management sectors
Australia Business Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens
Indian citizens must meet specific eligibility, financial, and documentation criteria to apply for an Australian business visa. Here’s Australia business visa requirements for Indian citizens;
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Australian Business Visitor Visa (subclass 600), applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Location: You must be outside Australia when applying for the visa and when the decision is made.
- Genuine Intent: You should have a legitimate purpose for visiting, such as:
- Attending conferences, trade fairs, or seminars (without payment).
- Negotiating business contracts.
- Conducting general business or employment inquiries.
- Financial Capability: You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Australia.
- Health and Character: Applicants must meet the necessary health and character requirements as stipulated by Australian immigration laws.
- Work Restrictions : The visa is intended for short-term business visits, so you cannot engage in paid work or provide services to an Australian business or organization.
Required Documents
When applying for the Australian Business Visa, ensure you provide the following documents:
- Valid Indian Passport: Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay in Australia.
- Completed Visa Application Form: Fill out the online application form for the Visitor Visa (subclass 600).
- Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs, as per the Australian visa specifications.
- Proof of Funds: Bank statements or other financial documents showing you have enough money to cover your stay in Australia.
- Employer/Business Letter: A letter from your employer or business that clearly states the purpose of your visit to Australia.
- Invitation Letters: If applicable, include invitation letters from Australian businesses or organizations.
- Travel Details: Provide a travel itinerary and accommodation details for your stay.
- Proof of Ties to India : Evidence of your ties to India, such as a letter from your employer, family commitments, or other documents that assure your return to India.
How to get Australia Business Visa
Getting an Australian business visa involves choosing the right visa stream, meeting eligibility criteria, and submitting the required documents through the official process. Here’s how you can get an Australian business visa: a step-by-step process,
1. Determine Your Visa Type
Choose the Correct Visa Subclass: Depending on the nature of your business visit, select the appropriate visa subclass for your purpose. This could include business visitor visas or other relevant subclasses.
2. Create an ImmiAccount
- Visit the Official Australian Government Website: Head to the Australian Department of Home Affairs website.
- Set Up an ImmiAccount: Register for an ImmiAccount to submit your application online and track its progress.
3. Gather Required Documents
Before starting your application, gather all supporting documents needed to prove your identity, the purpose of travel, and financial readiness. Having everything ready in advance ensures a smooth application process.
4. Complete the Online Application
Fill out the Application Form: Provide accurate personal information, trip details, and business activities for your intended visit.
5. Upload Supporting Documents
Attach Required Documents: Upload scanned or digital copies of your passport, invitation letter, financial proof, and other supporting documents.
6. Pay the Visa Application Fee
Visa Fee: The visa fee varies depending on the subclass of visa you are applying for.
7. Submit the Application
- Review the Application: Double-check all the information and documents before submitting.
- Submit the Application: Once everything looks good, submit your application for processing.
8. Await Processing
- Processing Time: Visa processing can take several weeks, depending on the specific visa subclass and your individual circumstances.
- Monitor Progress: Track your application’s status by logging into your ImmiAccount.
9. Receive the Visa Decision
If your visa is approved, you will receive a grant notice through your ImmiAccount.
Australia Business Visa Processing Time
The processing time for Australian business visas varies depending on the visa subclass and individual circumstances. The table below outlines estimated timelines for each visa type.
Visa Type | Stream | Estimated Processing Time |
---|---|---|
Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) | Business Visitor Stream | Up to 4 months |
Business Innovation & Investment (Subclass 188) | Business Innovation Stream | 15–22 months |
Investor Stream | 18–20 months | |
Significant Investor Stream | Not specified due to low volume | |
Premium Investor Stream | Not specified due to low volume | |
Entrepreneur Stream | Not specified due to low volume | |
Business Innovation & Investment (Subclass 888) | Business Innovation Stream | 24–27 months |
Investor Stream | 23–24 months | |
Significant Investor Stream | 26–27 months | |
Premium Investor Stream | Not specified due to low volume | |
Entrepreneur Stream | Approximately 41 days | |
Business Talent Visa (Subclass 132) | Significant Business History | 1–4 weeks (state nomination) |
Business Owner Visa (Subclass 890) | — | Varies; several months to over a year |
Investor Visa (Subclass 891) | — | Approximately 24 months |
State/Territory Sponsored Business Owner Visa (Subclass 892) | — | Not specified; varies based on individual circumstances |
Australia Business Visa Fees
Here is visa-wise breakdown of Australia Business Visa Fees:
Visa Type | Stream | Visa Application Fee (AUD) |
---|---|---|
Visitor Visa (Subclass 600) | Business Visitor Stream | AUD 195 |
Business Innovation & Investment Visa (Subclass 188) | Business Innovation Stream | AUD 9,710 |
Investor Stream | AUD 9,710 | |
Significant Investor Stream | AUD 14,240.00 | |
Premium Investor Stream | AUD 9,455 | |
Entrepreneur Stream | AUD 6,570.00 | |
Business Innovation & Investment Visa (Subclass 888) | All Streams | AUD 3,400 |
Business Talent Visa (Subclass 132) | Significant Business History | AUD 7,855 |
Business Owner Visa (Subclass 890) | — | AUD 2,890 |
Investor Visa (Subclass 891) | — | AUD 2,890 |
State/Territory Sponsored Business Owner Visa (Subclass 892) | — | AUD 2,890 |
Australia Business Visa Minimum Investment
Here are the minimum investment requirements for Australia business visa
Visa Type | Stream | Minimum Investment |
---|---|---|
Subclass 188 – Business Innovation & Investment Visa | Business Innovation Stream | No fixed minimum |
Investor Stream | AUD 1.5 million | |
Significant Investor Stream | AUD 5 million | |
Premium Investor Stream | AUD 15 million | |
Entrepreneur Stream | AUD 200,000 (funding secured) | |
Subclass 132 – Business Talent Visa (closed) | Significant Business History | AUD 1.5 million (net assets) & AUD 400,000 turnover |
Difference between Business Visa and Tourist Visa
An Australia Business Visa is designed for professionals who need to visit Australia for short-term business activities. This could include attending meetings, conferences, trade fairs, or exploring potential business opportunities. While you can engage in business discussions and inquiries, this visa does not allow you to take up employment or provide services to an Australian company.
In contrast, a Tourist Visa is purely for leisure purposes. It’s meant for those who want to travel for holidays, explore the country, or visit family and friends. You cannot participate in any business-related activities on this visa.
Though both visas generally allow stays ranging from 3 to 12 months, the intended purpose of travel is the key difference. Business visa applicants may be asked to provide documents such as invitation letters from Australian companies or a letter from their employer, while tourist visa applicants typically submit a travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and evidence of financial means.
Regardless of the visa type, you’ll need to prove that you have sufficient funds for your trip and that you intend to return to your home country once your stay ends.
Frequently Asked Questions
The minimum investment for an Australia business visa depends on the visa type:
- Subclass 188 (Investor Stream) – AUD 2.5 million
- Subclass 188 (Significant Investor Stream) – AUD 5 million
- Subclass 188 (Entrepreneur Stream) – AUD 200,000
- Subclass 891 (Investor Visa) – AUD 1.5 million
- Subclass 890/892 (Business Owner) – AUD 100,000+ in business and assets
Requirements vary by stream, and some don’t have fixed investment amounts but require proof of business ownership and financial capacity.
- Choose the right visa subclass (e.g., Subclass 600, 188).
- Create an ImmiAccount on the Australian immigration website.
- Prepare required documents (passport, financials, business proof, etc.).
- Fill and submit the application online via ImmiAccount.
- Upload supporting documents and pay the visa fee.
- Book a biometrics appointment at your nearest VFS Global center.
- Attend an interview if requested.
- Track your application and wait for the decision.
- Receive your visa grant notice.
The validity of an Australian business visa depends on the visa type:
- Visitor Visa (Subclass 600 – Business Visitor Stream): Valid for up to 12 months, with stays of up to 3 months per visit.
- Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 188): Valid for up to 5 years, depending on the stream.
- Permanent Business Visas (e.g., Subclass 888): Permanent residency with no expiry on stay in Australia.
To qualify, you typically need:
- Sufficient funds
- A valid skills assessment
- English proficiency
- Proven business management experience