Subclass 888 — Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) visa

Who the Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) visa (subclass 888) is generally for

In general terms, the subclass 888 is the permanent stage of the Business Innovation and Investment program. It is designed for people who already hold a provisional Business Innovation and Investment visa (subclass 188) and who, after operating in Australia under that provisional visa, want to move on to permanent residence. The subclass 888 is typically not a starting point in its own right — it usually follows on from having held and met the requirements of the matching provisional stream. It is worth noting that the underlying program closed to new subclass 188 applications during 2024, so in broad terms the subclass 888 now serves as the permanent step for existing provisional holders rather than a pathway open to brand-new entrants. The permanent stage has historically been organised to mirror the streams of the provisional visa (for example business-owner, investor and related streams), and the requirements at this stage generally focus on whether an applicant has genuinely carried on the qualifying business or investment activity in Australia during the provisional period. Decision-makers typically look at matters such as the applicant having maintained the relevant activity, met any commitment or holding requirements tied to their stream, and continued to satisfy general criteria. As with most permanent visas, health and character requirements generally apply, and family members can usually be included. The specific thresholds, holding periods and stream rules are detailed and change over time. This is general information only — not immigration assistance or legal advice. Stream rules, eligibility criteria and current requirements change, so always check the official Home Affairs page for the subclass 888, and a registered migration practitioner can advise on whether your provisional stream and circumstances fit the permanent stage.

What it typically costs

The main government cost is the Visa Application Charge (VAC). The subclass 888 has its own charge, but the exact figure is published on the official Home Affairs page and varies, so rather than relying on a fixed number it is best to confirm the current amount using the official VAC estimator before lodging. Business and investment visas generally sit at a different charge level from short-stay visas, and amounts are indexed and can change, which is another reason to check the live figure. Beyond the base charge, several other costs typically come up. Where a partner, children or other family members are included in the same application, additional-applicant charges generally apply per person, and these too are set out on the official page and in the estimator. Applicants often also meet ancillary out-of-pocket costs that are separate from the VAC — these can include health examinations, police or character certificates, certified translations of documents not in English, and professional costs such as accountants or auditors who help evidence the business or investment activity. There may also be a second-instalment-style charge or English-language-related arrangements in some cases, which the official page explains. Importantly, the VAC is a government charge payable to the Department of Home Affairs and is entirely separate from any platform fees or fees charged by a registered practitioner for their professional services. Those are always shown distinctly and are never part of the government charge. Because amounts change and the figure is not fixed here, treat costs as something to verify on the official estimator, and a registered practitioner can give a tailored estimate for your situation.

Common questions about the Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) visa (subclass 888)