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  • Australia Business Innovation Investor 188 2026

    Closed to new applications since July 2024. Replaced by National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858).

    Best For

    High-net-worth individuals seeking residence through capital investment

    Not Ideal For

    Applicants without the required minimum investment capital

    Known Issues

    CLOSED to new applications from 31 July 2024. Replaced by National Innovation Visa (858).

    At a Glance

    Visa Duration
    20 months
    Processing Time
    200–350 days
    Path to PR
    4 years
    Difficulty
    8/10 — Difficult
    Application Fee
    €3,044

    Eligibility Requirements

    RequirementDetails
    Age Range18+
    Job Offer RequiredNo
    Sponsorship RequiredNo
    License / Recognition RequiredNo
    Remote Income AllowedNo
    Business Activity RequiredNo
    Health Insurance RequiredYes
    Proof of Funds RequiredYes
    Can Apply From AbroadYes

    Financial Requirements

    ItemAmount
    Minimum Savings€496,000
    Application Fee€3,044

    Family & Rights

    RightDetails
    Family AllowedYes
    Spouse Can WorkYes
    Children AllowedYes
    Work Rightslimited
    Remote Work RightsNo
    RenewableYes
    Time to Permanent Residency4 years
    Time to Citizenship4 years

    Related Pathways

    Cost of Living

    Sydney
    Rent 1BR (center)€2,072
    Melbourne
    Rent 1BR (center)€1,475
    Brisbane
    Rent 1BR (center)€1,565

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the Business Innovation & Investor (188) — CLOSED?

    Closed to new applications since July 2024. Replaced by National Innovation Visa (Subclass 858).

    Who is the Business Innovation & Investor (188) — CLOSED best for?

    This pathway is best suited for: High-net-worth individuals seeking residence through capital investment.

    Who should not apply for the Business Innovation & Investor (188) — CLOSED?

    This pathway is not ideal for: Applicants without the required minimum investment capital.

    What are the financial requirements for the Business Innovation & Investor (188) — CLOSED?

    Applicants need minimum savings of €496,000. Additional costs may include the application fee and relocation expenses.

    How long does it take to process the Business Innovation & Investor (188) — CLOSED?

    Processing typically takes 200 to 350 days. Times may vary based on nationality, completeness of documentation, and current processing volumes.

    Can I bring my family on the Business Innovation & Investor (188) — CLOSED?

    Yes, this pathway allows family members including dependents. Your spouse may also be eligible to work.

    Can the Business Innovation & Investor (188) — CLOSED lead to permanent residency or citizenship?

    Yes. Holders of this visa can work toward permanent residency in approximately 4 years and citizenship in approximately 4 years, subject to meeting residence and other conditions.

    What are the known issues with the Business Innovation & Investor (188) — CLOSED?

    Known issues and warnings: CLOSED to new applications from 31 July 2024. Replaced by National Innovation Visa (858).. We recommend checking the official source for the latest updates.

    Are there alternative pathways to Australia?

    Yes. Australia offers 17 other immigration pathways. Compare all options on our Australia country page.

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    Official source: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/business-innov