Overview
The Subclass 188 is a provisional visa for business owners and investors who want to establish business activities or make investments in Australia. It is a 5-year visa that provides a pathway to the permanent Subclass 888 visa. This visa category is very popular among wealthy Chinese applicants looking to migrate through business or investment.
Business Innovation Stream
For people with business skills who want to own and manage a new or existing business in Australia. You need a minimum business turnover of $750,000 AUD, net assets of $1.25M, and a successful business career. You must score 65 points on the business points test (age, English, qualifications, business experience, assets). After 3 years of running a compliant business, you can apply for the 888 permanent visa.
Investor Stream
Requires a designated investment of at least $2.5 million AUD in an Australian state or territory government bond or approved managed fund for 4 years. You must have net business and personal assets of at least $2.5M and a successful business or investment career. After 4 years with the investment maintained, apply for the 888.
Significant Investor Stream (SIV)
The premium option requiring a $5 million AUD complying investment. No age limit, no English requirement, no points test. The investment must be split across complying areas: at least 20% in venture capital ($1M), 30% in emerging companies ($1.5M), and 50% in balancing investments ($2.5M). You only need to spend 40 days per year in Australia. After 4 years, apply for the 888.
Premium Investor Stream
Requires a $15 million AUD investment into premium investments in Australia. This is the most exclusive stream with the fewest applicants. It provides the fastest pathway to permanent residency.
Tips for Chinese Applicants
The biggest challenge for Chinese applicants is demonstrating the source of funds. The Australian government requires detailed evidence that investment funds were legally obtained. Prepare comprehensive documentation of your business history, tax returns, and asset accumulation over many years. Professional assistance from both a migration agent and accountant is strongly recommended for 188 applications.