Extend Your Stay in Australia: Guide to the Subclass 188 Business Innovation Extension Visa
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Introduction
Are you a successful entrepreneur holding a Subclass 188 Business Innovation Visa? Looking to extend your stay and further develop your Australian business? The Subclass 188 Business Innovation Extension Visa might be your next step. Below, we’ll break down the eligibility criteria, COVID-19 concessions, and residence requirements, along with how this extension can lead to permanent residency through the Subclass 888 pathway.
What Is the Subclass 188 Business Innovation Extension Visa?
- A provisional visa extension that lets you stay in Australia for up to 6, 7, or 8 years (depending on your invitation date and any COVID-19 concessions).
- A chance to maintain business ownership and continue day-to-day management of your Australian enterprise.
- A way to work toward permanent residency if you later meet all criteria for the Subclass 888 (Business Innovation) visa.
Eligibility at a Glance
To qualify for this Subclass 188 Extension, you must:
1. Hold a Qualifying Visa
- A Subclass 188 (Business Innovation) visa for at least 3 years, or
- A current or former Subclass 188 Business Innovation Extension visa (limited to one extension).
2. State or Territory Nomination
- Must have a current nomination from an Australian state or territory agency.
3. Maintain Business Ownership
- Operate your main business in Australia for at least 2 years before applying (unless covered by COVID-19 concessions).
- Demonstrate a need to be in Australia for day-to-day management.
4. COVID-19 Concessions
- If your Subclass 188 (Business Innovation) visa was granted on or before 30 June 2019 and expired during the concession period, special rules may apply.
5. Health and Character
- All applicants must meet health requirements and character requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.
- Family members not traveling to Australia may also need to meet these requirements.
6. Functional English or Second Instalment
- Applicants 18 years or older who cannot prove functional English must pay an additional second instalment fee, if not previously paid.
Dreaming of Australia? Let’s Make It Happen!
Key Benefits of Subclass 188 Business Innovation Extension Visa
Longer Stay
Extend your total permitted time in Australia to 6, 7, or 8 years, depending on invitation date and COVID-19 concessions.
Multiple Entries
Travel freely in and out of Australia while the visa remains valid.
Family Inclusion
Add eligible family members to your application.
Path to Permanent Residency
If you meet the residence requirements and business conditions, you may later apply for a Subclass 888 Business Innovation visa.
Application Process for Subclass 188 Business Innovation Extension Visa
Gather Documentation
- Proof of state nomination.
- Evidence of business ownership and active management (ABN, financial statements, etc.).
- Health and police clearances for you and any family members.
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- Apply either onshore or offshore (not in immigration clearance).
- Pay the correct visa application charge to avoid delays.
Await Processing
- Processing times vary; ensure you provide complete information.
- The Department may request additional documents or clarifications.
Comply with Visa Conditions
- Continue to operate your Australian business in line with all workplace and tax laws.
- Maintain adequate health insurance.
Obligations and Conditions
Operate a Compliant Business
Engage in genuine commercial activity that benefits Australia (creating jobs, introducing new technology, exporting goods, etc.).
Follow Australian Workplace Laws
Use the Pay and Conditions Tool (PACT) for correct pay rates and entitlements.
Meet State/Territory Nomination Obligations
Stay committed to the region that nominated you.
Ready to Extend Your Australian Business Journey?
At Sleek Migration, we specialize in business visas and understand the nuances of the Subclass 188 Extension process. Our experienced migration agents will:
- Assess Your Eligibility for state nomination and COVID-19 concessions.
- Guide You through each step, from document preparation to application submission.
- Maximize Your Success by ensuring your compliance with all requirements.
Book a Consultation with Sleek Migration Today
Don’t leave your Australian business future to chance. Contact us now to discuss the Subclass 188 Business Innovation Extension Visa or other migration pathways. Let our professional guidance pave the way for your continued success in Australia!
FAQs
What is the Subclass 188 Business Innovation Extension Visa?
- It allows holders of a Subclass 188 Business Innovation Visa to extend their stay in Australia for up to 6, 7, or 8 years, depending on their invitation date and any COVID-19 concessions.
Who can apply for this extension visa?
- Holders of a Subclass 188 Business Innovation Visa who have operated a business in Australia for at least 2 years and meet nomination requirements.
What are the COVID-19 concessions for this visa?
- Concessions apply if your Subclass 188 visa expired during the COVID-19 concession period and was granted on or before 30 June 2019.
What documents are needed for the application?
- Proof of state nomination, evidence of business ownership and active management, health clearances, and police checks.
Can family members be included in the application?
- Yes, eligible family members can be added to your application.
What is the pathway to permanent residency?
- After meeting the business and residence requirements, you can apply for the Subclass 888 Business Innovation Visa for permanent residency.
What is the application cost?
- Fees vary based on circumstances, but applicants over 18 without functional English may need to pay a second instalment fee.
