Business skills visas with state or territory government sponsorship
A territory or state-sponsored visa is applied for by business applicants who already own, or are looking to own, a business within Australia. It is the first step, of two, to being granted a business skills visa.
Who is eligible?
- Overseas business owners who intend to own a business in Australia and are less than 55 years old. With a territory or state-sponsored visa you can establish a new or existing business. To ensure you are applying for the proper visa you should consider what of the following criteria you meet.
- A minimum of 10% interest and ownership of a company or business that has been responsible for $300K for at least two of the last four fiscal years, or are a high level senior manager of such business.
- A net worth more than $250k that is transferable to Australia within two years of the granting of the visa.
- Younger than 55 years of age, unless the government feels you will be an exceptional benefit to the economy of Australia.
You may be able to get sponsorship from a territory or state if you:
- Have been involved in the daily goings on of your main business and have made decisions affecting the overall outcome of the business financially.
- Can show a legitimate reason why you need to be within Australia to conduct your business.
- Can maintain ownership of your business or set up and take part in its active role once it is established within Australia.
For how long is the visa valid?
It is valid for four years. If it is granted while you are already in Australia it is valid from the date of the grant, or if you are from outside of Australia, it is valid from the entry expiry date on the visa label.
May I bring my family?
You may apply to bring your spouse, you or your spouse’s children or any other dependant relatives that reside with you.
Will I be eligible for medical benefits in Australia?
While you will not be eligible for the Medicare and Australian government medical expenses, you are eligible for private medical insurance. However, it is not a requirement in the visa application process.
Will I be eligible for any other Australian benefits?
With this visa you will not be eligible for any family assistance or social security payments.
Are there any other requirements for eligibility?
A medical assessment may be required as well as a character requirement. This is to ensure that you will be an asset to the Australian community as a whole, both economically and socially. Anyone above 18 years of age will also be required to sign an Australian Values Statement that you will abide by the rules and laws and respect the Australian way of life.
Additionally, as the primary applicant you are required to enter Australia, prior to your family’s entry into the country.
Source: Department of Immigration and Citizenship
