Australian business and investment: Distinguishing between the 858 GTI, closed BIIP, and 888 pathways
Updated October 16, 2026. Business owners and investors must verify the current status of the program before preparing capital or implementing plans to move to Australia.
National Innovation Visa 858: merit-based assessment
The NIV is an invitation-based permanent residence visa aimed at individuals with exceptional international achievements, including innovative entrepreneurs and investors. Simply possessing assets or purchasing a business does not guarantee eligibility. EOIs are assessed based on priority and evidence of achievement.
An EOI is valid for 2 years; it is not a visa application or a bridging visa entitlement. If invited, the visa must be lodged within 60 days, accompanied by a nominator/Form 1000 and relevant documentation.
BIIP/subclass 188: closed to new applications
The Business Innovation and Investment Program has been permanently closed to new applications since July 31, 2024. Previously submitted files will continue to be processed according to regulations. Investment figures and 188 points tables in outdated materials do not reflect the conditions of a program currently open to new clients.
Subclass 888: for eligible transitional cases
The 888 is a permanent residency stream linked to previous business/investment pathways. It requires verification of the specific stream, date of 188 invitation/lodgement/grant, residency period, and business/investment activities. A universal 2 or 4-year milestone does not apply to all files.
Subclass 132: closed to new applications
The Business Talent visa 132 closed to new applications on July 1, 2021. Information regarding this visa should only be used for program history or when assessing relevant files.
If you want to move to Australia to operate a business?
Separate your business needs from visa requirements. It is necessary to assess job roles, business qualifications, industry, salary levels, sponsorship criteria, and actual visa streams; do not assume your business can sponsor you automatically.
Please send your CV, citizenship, current visa, ownership structure, management experience, revenue/assets, capital sources, and evidence of innovation for assessment by our Australian representatives.
Government sources
- National Innovation Visa 858
- EOI and Invitations
- BIIP closed to new applications
- Subclass 888
- Subclass 132
Learn more about Australia
You can call, email, or message us via our website at KeyApply.com.