Premium Investor Visa (Subclass 188D)

The 188D visa, also known as the Premium Investor Visa (PIV), is a subclass of the Australian Business Innovation and Investment Visa (subclass 188). It is designed for high-net-worth individuals who are willing to make a significant investment in Australia.

Here are the key features of the 188D Premium Investor Visa:

1. Eligibility: To be eligible for the Premium Investor Visa (188D), applicants must be nominated by a state or territory government in Australia and meet certain eligibility criteria. These criteria typically include having a high net worth, a successful business or investment track record, and a genuine commitment to investing in Australia.
2. Investment Requirement: The primary requirement of the Premium Investor Visa is to make a significant investment in Australia. The investment amount for this visa subclass is AUD 15 million. Unlike other streams of the Business Innovation and Investment Visa (subclass 188), there are no specific investment options prescribed for the Premium Investor Visa. However, the investment must be made in complying investments, which typically include Australian securities, eligible managed funds, or direct investments into Australian companies.
3. Duration and Conditions: The Premium Investor Visa (188D) is a temporary visa that initially grants a residence period of up to four years. However, holders of this visa are eligible to apply for permanent residency through the Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) Visa (subclass 888) after holding the 188D visa for at least 12 months and meeting certain requirements. The visa may have conditions attached regarding investment and residency in Australia.
4. Benefits: Holders of the Premium Investor Visa enjoy several benefits, including the opportunity to reside and work in Australia, access to quality education and healthcare services, and the ability to apply for permanent residency after meeting the required criteria. Additionally, the visa may provide opportunities for family members to accompany the primary visa holder to Australia.
5. State or Territory Nomination: Applicants for the Premium Investor Visa must be nominated by a state or territory government in Australia. Each state or territory government may have its specific nomination criteria and requirements for this visa subclass.