State and Territory Business Sponsorship visas

State governments are looking for top business people who are capable of establishing or purchasing a business that will have direct benefits for the state or territory's economy.

If you are an experienced and successful businessperson, you may be eligible for a State or Territory Business Sponsorship visa. These sponsorships are designed to attract top business professionals to a specific state or territory.

Ways that you can benefit the economy of a state or territory include increasing exports, making substantial investments, creating jobs for people within the state and helping to strengthen advancements in technology.

How the visas work

Sponsorship is available for business owners, senior executives and investors. You will need to successfully obtain sponsorship in the Business Talent and Regional Established Business in Australia (REBA) categories. The length of visa offered is usually four years, with some states offering a Permanent Business visa allowing permanent residency for high-calibre business people.

If you are sponsored by a state or territory, you will still need to apply to the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) for a business skills visa. Sponsorship may provide you with concessions on some of the requirements of this visa.

Each state or territory has its own criteria for providing sponsorships. For example, Tasmania stipulates that you must be able to demonstrate an investment level of no less than AUD$1 million.

Requirements for the visa

If you are considering a business visa that is state or territory sponsored, generally you will need to have made a visit to the state prior to application. If awarded a sponsorship visa you will need to commit to settling in that state for the duration of your visa. The sponsorships are not transferable from one state or territory to another.

Some states have age restrictions of 55, although exceptions can be made, and you will need to be able to demonstrate that your business skills and successes are of an exceptional standard. You will also need to demonstrate proficiency in the English language.

The following links can provide you with state- or territory-specific information about Business Sponsorship visas: