Business Visa: Starting Your Business Journey Abroad

Airborne Migration & Education

At Airborne Migration & Education, we help entrepreneurs, investors, and business owners make their dream of expanding their business abroad a reality. A Business Visa is the first step towards starting or investing in a business in a new country. Whether you’re an investor looking for opportunities or a startup founder aiming to scale internationally, we’re here to guide you through the entire process.

Why is a Business Visa Important?

A Business Visa enables entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals to establish or manage businesses in foreign countries. Having the correct visa allows you to legally operate, open a branch, or invest in a business abroad while also potentially obtaining residency rights. This visa can be the gateway to new markets, partnerships, and growth opportunities, all while living and working in a dynamic and prosperous international environment.

• Legitimate Business Operations: A business visa allows you to legally operate, manage, or invest in your business overseas.
• Access to Global Markets: With a business visa, you can expand your business into new countries and tap into international markets.
• Work and Residency Rights: Many business visas offer the opportunity to work, hire employees, and even apply for permanent residency after meeting certain requirements.
• Networking Opportunities: Living abroad opens doors to new partnerships, collaborations, and access to a global network of professionals.

In Canada, Entrepreneur and Investor Visas are part of a comprehensive immigration program that has helped thousands of business owners expand their operations globally. ( Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), 2023)

Eligibility for a Business Visa

Eligibility for a Business Visa depends on the country and the type of business you plan to start or invest in. Generally, there are two primary types of business visas:

• Investor Visa: Designed for individuals who wish to invest in or purchase an existing business in the host country. The eligibility requirements usually include:
  - A specific minimum investment amount.
  - Proof of the source of funds for investment.
  - Demonstrating the ability to manage or operate the business.
• Startup Visa: This visa is ideal for entrepreneurs planning to start a new business in the host country. The eligibility criteria typically include:
  - A viable business plan.
  - Proof of sufficient funds to support the startup’s initial operations.
  - A letter of support or endorsement from a recognized incubator or government body (in some countries).

In the United States, the EB-5 Investor Visa allows foreign nationals to obtain a green card by investing a minimum of $900,000 in a U.S.-based business that creates jobs for Americans. (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), 2023)

Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 188) – Provisional

The Business Innovation and Investment Visa (Subclass 188) is a temporary visa that allows successful businesspeople and investors to own and manage a business or invest in Australia. It is the first step toward permanent residency through the 888 visa. The visa is divided into several streams, including the Business Innovation, Investor, and Significant Investor streams, each with its own set of eligibility criteria.

Applicants must be nominated by a state or territory government and meet specific requirements based on the chosen stream. This visa grants up to 5 years of stay and allows the applicant and their family to live, work, and study in Australia. It also provides a pathway to permanent residency via the 888 visa if the conditions of the 188 visa are met.

Business Innovation Stream – Subclass 188

This stream is for people with business skills who want to operate a new or existing business in Australia. It is designed to encourage entrepreneurs to bring their talents and capital into the Australian economy. Applicants must show a successful business career and meet minimum turnover and asset thresholds.

Requirements: Must own a successful business with at least AUD $500,000 annual turnover for two of the last four years, have net business and personal assets of AUD $1.25 million, and be under 55 (unless state waives this). You must also pass a points test (minimum 65 points).
Length: Up to 5 years.
Things you can do: Establish and run a business, bring eligible family members, apply for permanent visa (888).

Investor Stream – Subclass 188

The Investor Stream is for individuals with at least AUD $2.5 million to invest in Australian state or territory government-approved investments. This stream is designed for people with a successful history of investment or business activity who are committed to maintaining investment activity in Australia.

Requirements: Must be under 55 years of age (unless waived), pass the points test (minimum 65 points), have 3+ years of investment/business experience, and invest at least AUD $2.5 million in complying investments.
Length: Up to 5 years.
Things you can do: Live and invest in Australia, bring eligible family, pursue permanent residency via 888.

Significant Investor Stream – Subclass 188

This stream is for high-net-worth individuals willing to invest at least AUD $5 million into complying significant investments in Australia. It has more flexibility than other streams, as it does not have age limits or a points test requirement, making it attractive for global investors.

Requirements: Invest AUD $5 million in complying significant investments (e.g., venture capital, managed funds, emerging companies). No age limit or points test.
Length: Up to 5 years.
Things you can do: Invest, live, and travel in Australia, bring your family, apply for permanent residency via 888 visa.

Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) Visa – Subclass 888

The Subclass 888 visa is the permanent residency pathway for holders of the 188 visa. It allows individuals who have successfully operated a business or maintained eligible investments under their 188 visa to live in Australia permanently. Applicants must meet the requirements of the stream they applied under in the 188 visa.

Requirements: Must have held a subclass 188 visa, met residency and business/investment requirements, and been nominated by a state or territory.
Things you can do: Live and work in Australia permanently, sponsor family, access Medicare, and apply for citizenship.
Processing Time: Varies depending on stream, usually 12–24 months after application.

Required Documents for a Business Visa

Each country and visa type may require different documentation, but generally, you'll need the following:

• 1. Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay.
• 2. Proof of Investment: Documentation showing proof of investment funds, whether for purchasing an existing business or starting a new one.
• 3. Visa Application Form: Complete and submit the visa application form provided by the embassy or consulate.
• 4. Business Plan: A detailed business plan outlining your business model, objectives, financial forecasts, and market analysis (especially for startup visas).
• 5. Financial Documents: Bank statements, tax returns, or proof of financial stability to support the business and personal expenses.
• 6. Education and Professional Qualifications: Proof of relevant education, qualifications, and professional experience.
• 7. Health and Medical Reports: Medical examination results, if required by the country.
• 8. Police Clearance Certificate: Background check to demonstrate good character.