Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) Application

The Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) is an Australian visa program that is designed to attract high-net-worth individuals who are interested in making significant investments in Australia. This visa provides a streamlined pathway to permanent residency in Australia for individuals who are able to invest at least AUD 15 million into Australian businesses and projects.

Eligibility for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) is limited to individuals who meet certain requirements. These requirements include:

• Age: Applicants must be under 55 years of age.

• Net worth: Applicants must have a net worth of at least AUD 15 million that is legally acquired and can be transferred to Australia.

• Investment: Applicants must be willing to invest at least AUD 15 million in Australian businesses and projects over a period of four years.

• Health and character: Applicants must meet health and character requirements.

• Nomination: Applicants must be nominated by a state or territory government in Australia.

Step by step application process for the Premium Investor Visa

Step 1: Expression of Interest

The first step in the application process is to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) through the Department of Home Affairs’ SkillSelect system. The EOI is a way for individuals to express their interest in the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) and give information about their investment plans.

Step 2: State or Territory Nomination

Once an individual has submitted an EOI, they must be nominated by a state or territory government in Australia. Each state and territory has its own criteria for nomination and individuals should research the requirements before applying.

Step 3: Invitation to Apply

If an individual is nominated by a state or territory government they will receive an invitation to apply for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D).

Step 4: Visa Application

Once an individual has received an invitation to apply, they can submit a formal visa application. This application must include information about the individual’s investment plans, as well as evidence of their net worth and investment history.

Step 5: Visa Grant

If an individual’s visa application is successful then they will receive a Premium Investment Visa (subclass 188D). This visa allows individuals to live and work in Australia for four years, after which they may be eligible to apply for permanent residency.

Eligible investments that an individual can make to qualify for the Premium Investment Visa (subclass 188D)

To be eligible, investments must be made into projects or businesses that are located in Australia and have the potential to make a significant contribution to the Australian economy. Investments must also be made in one or more of the following categories:

Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) regulated managed funds

Managed funds that are regulated by ASIC are an eligible investment option for the Premium Visa (subclass 188D). These funds must invest in assets that are located in Australia and have the potential to generate a return for investors.

Direct investment into Australian companies

Individuals can make direct investments into Australian companies that are actively operating in Australia. These investments must be made in companies that have a turnover of at least AUD 50 million, and the investment must be used for the growth and development of the business. It is also possible to invest in Hotels in Australia.

Government bonds

Investments into Australian government bonds are also eligible for the Investor Visa (subclass 188D). These bonds must be issued by the Commonwealth of Australia or a state or territory government, and must have a minimum maturity of four years.

Philanthropic contributions

Individuals can also make philanthropic contributions to eligible charitable organizations or mental health startup projects in Australia. These contributions must be made to organizations that are endorsed by the Australian Taxation Office as Deductible Gift Recipients (DGRs). The philanthropic contribution must be in addition to the AUD 15 million investment requirement and must be used for charitable purposes.

Unsuitable Investments for the Premium Investor Visa

Not all investments are eligible for the Investor Visa (subclass 188D). Investments in residential real estate, government bonds issued by local governments, and companies involved in tobacco, gambling or arms are not eligible for this visa.

Important considerations

• All investments carry some level of risk, and individuals should carefully consider the risks associated with their investment before making a decision.

• The investment timeframe for the Elite Investor Visa (subclass 188D) is four years. Individuals should consider whether their chosen investment is likely to provide a return within this timeframe.

•  It’s important to ensure that all investments made for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) comply with Australian laws and regulations.

• Individuals may choose to make their investment through a trust, company, or other structure.

The Elite Investor Visa (subclass 188D) is an Australian visa program that provides a pathway to permanent residency for high-net-worth individuals who are willing to make significant investments in the Australian economy. To be eligible, individuals must be nominated by a state or territory government, have a net worth of at least AUD 15 million, and be willing to invest at least AUD 15 million in eligible Australian businesses and projects over a period of four years.

Eligible investments include ASIC regulated managed funds, direct investment into Australian companies, government bonds, and philanthropic contributions to eligible charitable organizations or projects. It’s important to carefully consider the investment risks, timeframe, compliance, tax implications and structure when making an investment for this visa program.

Converting the Australia Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) to Citizenship

The Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) provides a pathway to permanent residency in Australia, which is a prerequisite for becoming an Australian citizen. Once an individual has held permanent residency for at least four years and meets other eligibility criteria they may be able to apply for Australian citizenship.

To be eligible to convert the Premium Investor Visa to Australian citizenship individuals must satisfy the following requirements:

• Meet the residency requirements: Individuals must have lived in Australia for at least four years as a permanent resident, with no more than 12 months spent outside of Australia during this period.

• Meet the character requirements: Individuals must be of good character and pass a character test.

• Meet the language requirements: Individuals must demonstrate that they have competent English language skills, either by providing evidence of completing a specified English language test or by providing evidence of having completed a specified level of education in English.

• Intend to reside in Australia or maintain a close and continuing association with Australia: Individuals must demonstrate that they intend to reside in Australia or maintain a close and continuing association with Australia.

• Be of good health: Individuals must meet health requirements.

Cost of the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D)

As of March 2023, the base application fee for the Australia Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) is AUD 8,770. In addition to this there may be additional fees for family members included in the application, as well as other costs associated with the application process, such as health assessments and translation services.

In addition to the visa application fees, individuals must also meet the investment requirements of the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D), which include investing at least AUD 15 million in eligible Australian businesses and projects over a period of four years. This investment must be made through an approved investment vehicle, such as an ASIC-regulated managed fund, direct investment into Australian companies, government bonds or philanthropic contributions to eligible charitable organizations or projects.

The investment itself is not a fee or payment to the Australian government, but rather a commitment to invest in the Australian economy. The Australian government does not provide any guarantees or assurances on the return on investment, and individuals must carefully consider the investment risks before making a decision.

Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) application timeframe

As of March 2023 the current processing times for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) are between 3 and 11 months. It can take a little longer because of the stages an applicant has to go through. These stages are:

• Individuals must be nominated by a state or territory government before they can apply for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D). The nomination process can take several weeks or months, depending on the state or territory and the eligibility criteria for nomination.

• Once an individual has been nominated by a state or territory government, they must submit an EOI through the SkillSelect system. The EOI must include information about the individual’s personal and financial situation, as well as their proposed investment in the Australian economy.

• If the Australian immigration authorities determine that the individual meets the eligibility criteria for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D), they may be invited to apply for the visa. The invitation to apply typically includes a timeframe for submitting the visa application and supporting documentation.

• Individuals must submit a complete visa application and supporting documentation within the specified timeframe. The application and supporting documentation must be accurate and complete, and must demonstrate that the individual meets the eligibility criteria for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D).

• Once the visa application and supporting documentation have been submitted, the Australian immigration authorities will review the application and make a decision on whether to grant the visa. The processing time for the visa application can vary depending on several factors, as mentioned earlier.

Are Chinese allowed to apply for the Australia Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D)?

Yes, Chinese citizens are eligible to apply for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D), provided they meet the eligibility criteria and requirements of the visa program. The Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) is open to eligible individuals from all countries, including China.

To be eligible for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D), individuals must be nominated by a state or territory government in Australia and have a minimum net worth of AUD 25 million. They must also make a minimum investment of AUD 15 million in approved investment vehicles and demonstrate a genuine commitment to maintaining the investment in Australia.

Tax implications of being an Australian citizen or permanent resident

As an Australian citizen or permanent resident you are subject to taxation on your worldwide income and assets. This means that you are required to pay taxes on all income earned from sources within and outside of Australia including salary, wages, rental income, investment income and capital gains.

The Australian taxation system is administered by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) which is responsible for collecting taxes and enforcing compliance with tax laws. The taxes that you may be required to pay as an Australian citizen or permanent resident include:

• Income tax: Income tax is the tax you pay on your income from all sources. The amount of tax you pay depends on your income level and tax bracket. Australian residents are taxed on a progressive tax system, which means that the more income you earn, the higher the tax rate you pay.

• Goods and Services Tax (GST): GST is a tax that is applied to most goods and services in Australia. The current GST rate is 10%, and it is included in the price of most goods and services.

• Capital gains tax (CGT): CGT is a tax that is applied to the capital gain (or profit) you make when you sell an asset, such as property, shares, or an investment property. The CGT rate is generally 50% of the gain for assets that are held for more than 12 months, but this can vary depending on the type of asset and your individual circumstances.

• Property tax: Property tax includes taxes such as land tax, which is a tax on the value of land you own, and council rates, which are local government taxes that are based on the value of your property.

• Superannuation tax: Superannuation is a retirement savings system in Australia, and contributions to superannuation are taxed at a concessional rate. Withdrawals from superannuation are generally tax-free after the age of 60.

Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) FAQs

Q: What is the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D)?

A: The Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) is an Australian visa program designed for high net worth individuals who wish to invest a minimum of AUD 15 million in approved investment vehicles in Australia to secure Australian citizenship or permanent residency.

Q: What are the eligibility requirements for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D)?

A: To be eligible for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D), applicants must have a minimum of AUD 15 million in net assets, a genuine intention to invest AUD 15 million in approved investment vehicles in Australia, and meet the health and character requirements set by the Australian government.

Q: What are the approved investment vehicles for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D)?

A: The approved investment vehicles for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) include Australian venture capital and private equity funds, Australian proprietary companies, and managed funds that invest in Australian assets.

Q: What are the benefits of the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D)?

A: The Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) offers several benefits, including a faster pathway to Australian citizenship or permanent residency, access to world-class education and healthcare, and the opportunity to invest in a stable and prosperous economy.

Q: How long does it take to process a Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) application?

A: The processing time for a Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) application can vary, but it typically takes around 12-15 months from the time of application to the issuance of the visa.

Q: How long is the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) valid for?

A: The Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) is initially valid for four years, with the option to renew for an additional two years if the investment requirements are met.

Q: Can family members be included in a Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) application?

A: Yes, family members can be included in a Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) application, including spouses or de facto partners, dependent children, and dependent relatives.

Q: Is it possible to convert a Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) to Australian citizenship?

A: Yes, it is possible to convert a Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) to Australian citizenship if the applicant meets the residency and other requirements set by the Australian government.

Q: What are the tax implications of holding a Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D)?

A: As a holder of a Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D), you are subject to Australian taxation on your worldwide income and assets, including income earned from sources both inside and outside of Australia. It is important to seek professional tax advice to ensure compliance with Australian tax laws and regulations.

Q: Are Chinese citizens eligible for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D)?

A: Yes, Chinese citizens are eligible for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D), as long as they meet the eligibility requirements and are able to invest a minimum of AUD 15 million in approved investment vehicles in Australia.

Q: Can I apply for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) if I don’t have AUD 15 million in net assets?

A: No, to be eligible for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D), you must have a minimum of AUD 15 million in net assets. However, there are other investment-based visa programs available for individuals who do not meet the requirements of the Premium Investor Visa program.

Q: Are there any restrictions on the types of assets I can invest in to qualify for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D)?

A: Yes, there are restrictions on the types of assets that qualify for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D). The investment must be made in approved investment vehicles, which include Australian venture capital and private equity funds, Australian proprietary companies, and managed funds that invest in Australian assets.

Q: Can I work in Australia on a Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D)?

A: Yes, as a holder of a Premium Investment Visa (subclass 188D), you are permitted to work and study in Australia. However, the primary purpose of the visa is to facilitate investment, so applicants are expected to invest in Australia and contribute to the Australian economy.

Q: Is it possible to apply for a Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D) while living in Australia on another type of visa?

A: Yes, it is possible to apply for a Premium Investment Visa (subclass 188D) while living in Australia on another type of visa. However, it is important to ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements and have the necessary funds available to invest in approved investment vehicles.

Q: What happens if I do not meet the investment requirements of the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D)?

A: If you do not meet the investment requirements of the Premium Investing Visa (subclass 188D), your visa may be canceled, and you may be required to leave Australia. It is important to carefully consider the investment requirements before applying for the visa.

Q: Can I bring my parents to Australia on a Premium Investing Visa (subclass 188D)?

A: No, parents are not considered eligible family members for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D). Only spouses or de facto partners, dependent children, and dependent relatives can be included in the visa application.

Q: Do I need to maintain my investment for the entire duration of the Premium Investors Visa (subclass 188D)?

A: Yes, to maintain your Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D), you must maintain your investment in approved investment vehicles for the duration of the visa. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of your visa.

Q: Can I apply for Australian citizenship immediately after obtaining a Premium Investment Visa (subclass 188D)?

A: No, there is a residency requirement before you can apply for Australian citizenship. To be eligible for citizenship, you must have lived in Australia for at least four years as a permanent resident and have been physically present in Australia for at least 12 months as a permanent resident immediately before applying for citizenship.

Free Premium Investors Visa Assessment

Are you interested in obtaining Australian citizenship through investment?

The Premium Investors Visa (subclass 188D) is a pathway to Australian citizenship for high net worth individuals. With a minimum investment of AUD 15 million in approved investment vehicles, you can be on your way to obtaining this prestigious visa and eventually Australian citizenship.

Imagine the benefits of living in Australia as a citizen, including access to world-class healthcare, education, and lifestyle. Additionally, as a citizen, you’ll have the freedom to work and live in Australia without any restrictions.

Take the first step towards realizing your dream of Australian citizenship by taking a free visa assessment to check your eligibility for the Premium Investing Visa (subclass 188D). Our team of experienced immigration professionals will guide you through the process and help you achieve your goals.

Don’t wait any longer, take the free visa assessment now to see if you qualify for the Premium Investor Visa (subclass 188D).