Subclass 188B – Investor Stream
The Subclass 188B – Investor Stream visa is for high-net-worth individuals who want to invest in Australia and contribute to its economic development. This provisional visa allows you to live and invest in Australia temporarily, with a clear pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 888 visa.
To qualify, applicants must make a designated investment in an Australian state or territory and meet specific financial criteria. The visa targets experienced investors who can contribute to sectors such as business, technology, or infrastructure.
In return, this visa offers the flexibility to live, work, and invest in Australia, along with the opportunity to include eligible family members. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a secure environment to grow their investments while planning a long-term future in Australia.
What You Can Do with this Visa
The Subclass 188B visa offers more than just residency — it opens doors to new opportunities in Australia for you and your family:
Live and Work in Australia for Up to 5 Years
Enjoy temporary residency that allows you to settle in any part of Australia while actively managing your investments.
Invest in Various Australian Economic Sectors
You can diversify your AUD 2.5 million investment across approved assets such as government bonds, venture capital, and managed funds.
Bring Eligible Family Members
Your spouse or de facto partner and dependent children can be included in your visa application, with full work and study rights in Australia.
Pathway to Permanent Residency (Subclass 888)
If you meet the residence and investment requirements during your 188B visa stay, you can apply for the Subclass 888 permanent residence visa — offering long-term settlement options.
Who Is Eligible for the Subclass 189 Visa?
To qualify for the Subclass 188B – Investor Stream visa, applicants must meet specific criteria that demonstrate their financial capacity, integrity, and commitment to investing in Australia’s economy. Below is a summary of the key eligibility conditions you must fulfill before applying.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| State/Territory Nomination | You must be nominated by a state or territory government in Australia. |
| Minimum Investment | Invest at least AUD 2.5 million in complying Australian investments. |
| Health & Character Requirements | Meet Australia’s health and character standards. |
| Intent to Reside | Show a genuine intention to live in Australia during and after your visa. |
| Acceptable Business Conduct | No history of involvement in illegal or unethical business activities. |
Eligible Investment Options
To satisfy the AUD 2.5 million investment requirement, your investment must include the following components:
| Investment Category | Minimum Investment (AUD) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Australian Bonds | $1.5 million | Invest in government or semi-government bonds issued in Australia |
| Venture Capital & Private Equity Funds | $500,000 | Invest in funds that support Australian start-ups and high-growth companies |
| Managed Funds (Australian-focused) | $500,000 | Invest in funds focused on listed companies, infrastructure, or real estate |
5 Steps to Apply for the Subclass 188B – Investor Stream
The Subclass 188B visa allows you to invest in Australia with a minimum investment of AUD 2.5 million. Follow these 5 easy steps to begin your application and work toward permanent residency.
Prepare Your Investment Plan
Ensure you have a detailed plan showing that you will invest a minimum of AUD 2.5 million in eligible Australian investments, such as bonds, venture capital, and managed funds.
Secure State or Territory Nomination
Submit your investment plan to a State or Territory government. You must receive a nomination from the state or territory before you can apply for the visa.
Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI)
Lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI) through SkillSelect, indicating your investment intentions and nominating the State or Territory.
Apply for the Visa
Once invited to apply, submit your visa application online. You must include the required documentation and pay the application fee.
Wait for a Decision
After submission, the Department of Home Affairs will process your application. Expect a decision within 3 to 6 months, depending on the complexity of your case.
Need help with the process? Reach out to our Registered Migration Agents at info@openpathways.com or fill in the online enquiry form for a free eligibility check.
Visa Application Fees
| Applicant Type | Cost (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Primary Applicant | $9,795 |
| Additional Adults | $4,895 |
| Additional Children | $2,445 |
Processing Time
The processing time for the Subclass 188B visa is generally 3 to 6 months, but this can vary based on:
Document Submission: Timely and complete submissions can speed up the process.
Application Complexity: Complex applications may take longer for review.
State or Territory Nomination: The time taken for government nomination may affect the overall processing.
Application Volume: A high volume of applications can lead to delays.
Keeping track of your application and responding promptly to any requests can help avoid unnecessary delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do I need to invest?
You must invest a minimum of AUD 2.5 million in a mix of Australian government bonds, venture capital funds, and managed funds.
Can I include my family in the application?
Yes. You can include your partner and dependent children in your visa application.
Can I work in Australia on this visa?
Yes. This visa allows you to live, work, and study in Australia for the duration of your stay.
Is there a pathway to permanent residency?
Yes. If you meet the requirements, you can transition to permanent residency via the Subclass 888 visa.
Ready to Invest in Australia?
Let Open Pathways guide you through the application process and ensure your investment journey is smooth.
📩 Book your consultation today and start your path to permanent residency in Australia!
