Entrepreneur Stream (subclass 188E) visa

The Entrepreneur Stream (Subclass 188E) Visa is a pathway for entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas and a desire to develop and manage their own venture in Australia. This visa falls under the Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) Visa (Subclass 188) program, designed to promote entrepreneurship and drive economic growth in Australia.

 

This visa is a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs to establish and develop their ventures in Australia, with a potential pathway to permanent residency. The complex application process and the requirement for a substantial funding agreement, means guidance from an experienced registered migration agent or legal expert to ensure a successful visa application is advisable.

Requirements To Apply For an Entrepreneur Stream (Subclass 188E) visa

Notable Requirements:

  1. Innovative Business Proposal: To be eligible for the Subclass 188E Visa, applicants must have a funding agreement of at least AUD 200,000 with an eligible funding entity to support their entrepreneurial activities in Australia. They must also submit a comprehensive business proposal outlining their innovative idea and how it will benefit Australia.
  2. Age Requirement: Applicants must be under 55 years of age, although state or territory government waivers may be available for exceptional cases.
  3. State or Territory Nomination: Applicants must be nominated by a state or territory government in Australia, which may have specific criteria for nomination.
  4. English Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the English language is mandatory. Applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through recognized tests.
  5. Health and Character Requirements: Applicants must meet health and character requirements as specified by the Australian government.

Visa Conditions:

  • Visa holders must actively and continuously manage their entrepreneurial activities in Australia.
  • Compliance with Australian laws and regulations is mandatory.

Application Process:

  • The application process for the Subclass 188E Visa involves multiple steps, including expression of interest (EOI) submission, state or territory government nomination, and visa application.
  • Applicants must provide a well-structured business proposal that outlines their innovative idea, market research, commercialization plan, and how the venture will benefit Australia.
  • Evidence of the funding agreement with an eligible funding entity is a critical component of the application.

Different Streams Of The 188 Visa

There are different streams of Visa depending on the type of business you are starting or investing in.

Business Innovation Stream (188A)

This stream is for individuals with a successful business career and a genuine desire to own and manage a business in Australia. Applicants must have a certain level of business turnover and a commitment to continuing their business activities in Australia.

Investor Stream (188B)

This stream is for applicants who are willing to make an AUD 1.5 million investment in an Australian state or territory and maintain that activity in Australia.

You need to meet business turnover and net asset requirements, you must have a successful business history, and be under the age of 55.

Significant Investor Stream (188C)

This stream targets individuals who are willing to invest a significant amount in specified investments in Australia, including venture capital and small private equity funds.

Premium Investor Stream (188D)

Designed for high-net-worth individuals with an exceptional business history, this stream requires a significant investment in premium investments in Australia.

Apply for a Business Innovation and Investment (subclass 188) visa

The first step in applying for a Entrepreneur Stream (Subclass 188E) Visa is to get in touch with the team at K1 Migration and arrange a discovery call.  Understanding your background and your goals will ensure we develop the right visa pathway that suits your circumstances.  

We take each step with you and provide help and advice throughout your migration journey.    

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    Step 1

    Once you reach out to K1 Migration, we set up a discovery call to understand what your needs are and what Visa best suits you.

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    Step 2

    From there, we will send you a Strategy proposal outlining the steps we will take to assist you in getting a Visa for you to sign off on.

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    Step 3

    Now our team leaps into action, following immigration pathways, taking care of the paperwork and helping you through the entire application process.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Let’s make it happen together. Contact K1 Migration today, and let us help you or your business take the next big step. We’re here to make your move smooth, stress-free, and successful!

Not sure what visa you could be eligible for?

Australian visas can be confusing, especially if you might have more than one option. Use our Visa Finder to view your visa options. 

Want to speak to someone about your case?

Not sure where to go from here? Speak to a registered migration agent about your immigration needs today.

Know what you need and want some pricing?

Know what visa you want to apply for but need some pricing? Get in touch with us and we will get back to you with a fixed price quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. You can include eligible family members in your application, including your spouse or de facto partner and dependent children.

Family members will have the same rights to live, work, and study in Australia.

The Subclass 188E Visa allows you to stay in Australia for up to 5 years.

If you meet the business performance criteria, you can apply for permanent residency through the Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) Visa (Subclass 888 – Entrepreneur Stream).

Eligible entrepreneurial activities must focus on innovation and commercialization in one or more of the following areas:

  • Commercializing a product, service, or business process.
  • Developing innovative technologies or solutions.
  • Engaging in high-potential sectors such as technology, healthcare, fintech, agriculture, and sustainable energy.

Activities that involve property development, labor hire, or franchise operations are not eligible for this visa.

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