Applying for a business visa for Australia is a big commitment, with significant costs, lots of work, navigating the migration system and being very well prepared.

The Business Innovation and Investment Visa is the most common type that we work on at The Business Plan Company, usually the Innovation Stream (often called 188A). The business plan is only one element of the submission, but it is an important part of the application, and one that needs consideration ahead of time.

To help your preparation, I have summarised the main considerations here. There are no guarantees with applications, but by addressing all the small details, your application can have the strongest chance.

  • Do your homework. Navigating migration laws, application processes for 188 Visas, and supplying the correct information can be daunting and very easy to miss some key requirements. Getting it wrong can result in a refusal for your application. Mostly our clients work with migration agents, who know their way around the systems and processes.
  • Decide what kind of business you want to start in Australia. To be convincing, the proposed business would be one that you can conceivably operate successfully once you migrate. Ideally there would be some connection from a past business, where you can demonstrate transferable skills and experience. For example, if you have experience in the automotive industry, something in a similar industry will increase your chances.
  • Choose the state of nomination. Australia has a large land area, with each state having differences in the economy, populations and climate. Each state also has a separate State Governments with different priorities and will assess 188A applications from a different perspective. So not every business will match every state. Further, the investment levels and other requirements vary from state-to-state, which can impact the type of business you will propose.
  • Make sure it’s appealing. Proposed businesses may not be appealing to a particular state, or in fact may not even be allowed. For example, import businesses can be unattractive (or not permitted), property development business are not allowed in some states. Conversely, each state has particular priority sectors, such as technology for many states.
  • Make it realistic. Proposed investment levels, projected revenues, team members and market information needs to be achievable and in context with the local market. Make sure it is all consistent.
  • Put it all together, to create a sharp, concise and well-presented plan and proposal that gives your business visa application the best chance.

At The Business Plan Company we write hundreds of business plans for migration every year, working with more than 400 migration agents. With a team of experienced business people around the country, we make the process easy and understand the Australian market.