skilled migration visa australia, 189 subclass visa australia - VisaAdvisor
Home » Business Innovation & Investment Visas » Subclass 888 Permanent Visa

Subclass 888 – Business Innovation Stream -Permanent Visa

Transition from your 188A visa to permanent residency by running a successful business in Australia.

️ 🧮 Check My Eligibility

🔎 Quick Visa Facts

Visa/Subclass Subclass 888 – Business Innovation Stream

Who it suits Business owners holding a 188A visa who have met turnover, employment and compliance requirements

Stay period Permanent residency

Work rights Full work rights

Study allowance Permitted

Location rules Nationwide

Key risks Not meeting turnover or compliance requirements, missing residence requirement

Visa Overview

The Subclass 888 – Business Innovation Stream is for holders of the Subclass 188A visa who have successfully managed and operated a business in Australia. It allows them to obtain permanent residency once they meet the required turnover, ownership, and compliance conditions.

🎯 Key Benefits

  • Permanent residency for you and eligible family members
  • Freedom to work, study, and run businesses in Australia
  • Access to Medicare and citizenship eligibility
  • Sponsor family members
  • Recognition of your contribution to the Australian economy

Eligibility Criteria

Hold a valid Subclass 188A Business Innovation visa.

Meet residence requirement: generally lived in Australia for at least 1 year in the 2 years immediately before application.

Business must meet minimum turnover requirements (e.g., AUD 300,000 per year – confirm current DHA thresholds).

Owned and operated a business in Australia for at least 2 years before applying.

Demonstrated employment of Australian citizens or permanent residents.

Complied with Australian tax and regulatory obligations.

Meet health and character requirements (including dependants).

🔍 Step‑by‑Step Application Process

Follow these steps to apply for the Subclass 888A visa:
1
Check Eligibility
ensure you have held a Subclass 188A visa and meet residence and business requirements.
2
Prepare business and compliance evidence (turnover, tax returns, employee records).
3
Check that you have maintained business ownership and direct involvement.
4
Gather supporting documents
passport, AFP check, health insurance, identity, and family documents.
5
Submit your application online via ImmiAccount.
6
Attach all required documents accurately.

📝 Required Documents

Passport and national ID documents

Evidence of Subclass 188A visa grant

Business ownership records (ASIC documents, shareholding)

Business turnover evidence (financial statements, audited accounts, BAS statements)

Tax returns and compliance documents

Employee records (contracts, payroll summaries, superannuation records)

Proof of residence in Australia (utility bills, leases, ATO records)

AFP National Police Check

Health insurance evidence

Family identity and character documents

Visa Fees & Processing Time

TypeAmount
Base Application FeesAUD3,500.00
Additional Applicant 18 and overAUD1,755.00
Additional Applicant Under 18 FeesAUD875
Processing time:typically 3–5 months, depending on caseload and evidence quality.
Check Visa Fees with Official Estimator

Family Members

You can include your partner and dependent children (including financially reliant over 18).

Family must meet health and character requirements.

Subsequent entrant applications are permitted after visa grant.

Common Mistakes & Red Flags

Not meeting the minimum turnover requirement.

Failing to maintain continuous business ownership.

Incomplete or inconsistent tax/business records.

Incomplete or inconsistent tax/business records.

Not meeting residence requirement.

Missing AFP or health check evidence.

🧰 Resources & Tools

Discover free tools to help you plan, prepare, and lodge your visa with confidence 

Business Innovation Stream Pack
Business Innovation Stream Pack
Download
ATO Business & Tax Compliance Guide
ATO Business & Tax Compliance Guide
Discover

Frequently Asked Questions
Subclass 888 Business Innovation Stream

Holders of a Subclass 188A visa who have successfully owned and managed a business in Australia.

You must generally have lived in Australia for at least 1 year in the 2 years immediately before application.

No. Subclass 888 does not require a points test.

You must demonstrate your business meets the minimum turnover threshold set by DHA (currently AUD 300,000+ per year – check DHA for updates).

Yes, partners and dependent children can be included.

Generally 3–5 months, depending on evidence quality and caseload.

📞 Book a Free Consultation with a Migration Expert

Speak directly with a MARA-registered migration agent and have your Skilled Visa strategy explained step-by-step — at no cost.

  • 100% Free
  • No Obligation
  • Confidential Advice
📖 Book a Free Consultation

Why Trust Visa Advisor?

Choosing the right migration partner can make all the difference. 

 Here’s why Visa Advisor is the trusted choice

Expert Guidance

MARA-registered agents with years of experience simplify your migration journey.

Transparent Pricing

Clear, upfront costs with no hidden fees—just honest advice.

Global Support

Flexible online and in-person consultations, wherever you are.

Smart Tools

Advanced visa finders and calculators to make decisions easier.

Proven Results

Trusted by clients for reliable, personalized migration support.

Disclaimer
The information on this page is for general guidance only and does not guarantee visa approval. All visa applications are subject to the discretion of the Australian Department of Home Affairs. For personalized guidance, please contact a registered migration agent at Visa Advisor.