Premium Investor Visa (Subclass 188D) – Visa Aid Australia
The Premium Investor Visa (Subclass 188D) is a temporary business visa for high-net-worth individuals who wish to invest in Australia through a premium investment pathway. This visa is designed for globally experienced investors who are nominated by an Australian State or Territory Government and supported by Austrade.
This visa provides a streamlined pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 888 visa, subject to meeting ongoing investment and compliance requirements.
Important Update
New applications for the Premium Investor (Subclass 188D) stream are currently closed to new applicants under Australian migration policy. Transitional arrangements apply for existing visa holders only.
Visa Aid recommends confirming current eligibility before planning any investment migration strategy.
Premium Investor Visa (Subclass 188D) – Investment Requirements
Applicants applying from within Australia must hold a valid substantive visa or an appropriate Bridging Visa (A, B, or C).
Eligibility Criteria for Subclass 188D
Applicants may be eligible for the Premium Investor Visa (Subclass 188D) if they:
Are nominated by an Australian State or Territory Government
Are recommended by Austrade
Have capacity to make a premium investment of AUD 15 million
Demonstrate a genuine intention to maintain investment in Australia
Meet health and character requirements
Visa Aid recommends professional eligibility assessment before submitting an Expression of Interest.
Pathway to Permanent Residency (Subclass 888)
The Premium Investor Visa (Subclass 188D) provides a direct pathway to permanent residency through the Subclass 888 visa.
To qualify, applicants must:
Maintain the approved premium investment
Continue to comply with nomination obligations
Meet Australian migration requirements
Hold the 188D visa for the required period
Visa Aid supports applicants through both temporary and permanent residency stages.
Who Should Apply for Subclass 188D
This visa is suitable for:
Ultra-high-net-worth individuals
Global investors and business leaders
Family offices and investment groups
Investors seeking low residency obligation
Why Choose Visa Aid
Visa Aid provides strategic investment migration guidance including:
Visa eligibility assessment
State and Austrade nomination guidance
Investment structure compliance
Visa application management
Permanent residency transition support
Start Your Premium Investor Visa Journey
Premium Investment Requirement
Applicants must invest at least AUD 15 million into approved Australian premium investment options, such as:
Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) listed assets
Australian Government or State bonds
Investment-grade corporate bonds
Australian managed funds
Approved private Australian businesses
Commercial real estate (excluding residential property)
Approved annuity products
Other investments approved by State or Territory authorities
All investments must comply with Australian government regulations.
ADVANTAGES
Key Advantages
No mandatory minimum stay requirement in Australia
Fast-track pathway to permanent residency through Subclass 888
Suitable for ultra-high-net-worth global investors
Flexibility in investment structure
Related Australian Business & Investor Visa Streams:
Business Innovation Visa (188A)
Investor Visa (188B)
Significant Investor Visa (188C)
Entrepreneur Visa Stream