Investor visas

This visa in the Investor stream is suitable for active investors who want to obtain permanent residency, and who in return are willing make an investment in Australia of at least $2.5 million. A prerequisite is the formal nomination either by an Australian state or territory government, in which the agreed investment subsequently has to be made, or by AUSTRADE (Australian Trade and Investment Commission). This visa requires a points test. Points are awarded for, for example, English proficiency, qualifications, and work experience.

Investors with a successful career and investment management experience may be granted this visa if their assets meet or exceed specified key indicators and they are furthermore willing to invest a specified part of their assets in an approved investment. In addition, the applicant must have the genuine intention to settle in Australia, to actively conduct their business, and to transfer their assets to Australia.

The most important visa requirements at a glance:

• Aged under 55 
• Nomination by an Australian state or territory government or AUSTRADE
• Points-test requirement 
• At least three years of experience in investment management (managing your own assets) or in a qualifying business activity
• Evidence of sufficient financial assets (business assets and private assets as well as the partner’s assets can be combined)
• Health check

Visa validity and essential visa conditions:

• Temporary visa for 5 years with the option of obtaining permanent residence (after 3 years at the earliest)
• Willingness to transfer business and private assets to Australia within two years
• Mandatory investment for a period of at least four year

The Business Innovation and Investment visa in the Significant Investor stream is suitable for applicants who want to obtain permanent residency, and who in return are willing make an investment in Australia of at least $5 million. A prerequisite for this visa is a nomination either by an Australian state, in which the agreed investment is later to be made, or by AUSTRADE.

Due to the significantly higher investment required for this visa stream, the eligibility requirements are eased. There is no points test required for this visa and no age limit applies. This visa can be extended up to two times.

The most important visa requirements at a glance:

• Nomination by an Australian state or territory government or AUSTRADE
• Evidence of sufficient financial assets
• Health check

Visa validity and essential visa conditions:

• Temporary visa for 5 years with the option of obtaining permanent residence (after 3 years at the earliest)
• Willingness to transfer business and private assets to Australia within two years
• Mandatory investment of at least A$5 million for a period of at least four year

Unfortunately, this visa class was closed in 2018 for new applicants.

For investors who wish to retire or spend part of their retirement in Australia, this temporary visa is suitable. Applicants can obtain this visa for an investment commitment the minimum amount of which depends on whether they want to settle in rural Australia or in one of the major cities. Currently, investments of A$500,000.- or A$750,000.- are required. A prerequisite is sponsorship by the Australian state or territory government, in which the applicant has to make an investment during the visa period. Furthermore, there are minimum assets and annual net income amounts that must be exceeded.

Since this visa is specifically designed for retirees, applicants have to be at least 55 years of age. Applicants can include their partners in the application (no age restrictions), but no other family members.

This visa is a temporary residence permit for max. four years, which can be extended for a further four years with simplified conditions. However, access to permanent residency is not possible via this pathway.

The most important visa requirements at a glance:

• Aged over 55
• Valid passport
• Sponsored by an Australian state or territory government
• Willingness to settle in a specific region
• Evidence of sufficient financial assets
• Health check

Visa validity and essential visa conditions:

• Temporary visa for four years
• Willingness to transfer assets to Australia
• Work rights (max. 40 hrs within a fortnight)
• Private health insurance required