Update (October 2026)
This 2018 announcement is historical. The Business Innovation and Investment program, including the 188 and 132 visas, closed to new applications on 31 July 2024, so South Australia no longer nominates new 188 or 132 applicants. Existing 188 visa holders can still work towards the 888 permanent visa. For new business and investor migration, see the National Innovation visa (subclass 858).
Update: State requirements for Business visas
Immigration SA announced some important changes effective immediately:
- Subclass 188/132 state nomination applications are temporarily closed as we have exceeded the number of places available to us by the Department of Home Affairs. We expect to re-open late March/early April 2018 when additional places are released.
- Applications that have commenced but not completed or submitted on the Immigration SA website, will no longer be able to be accessed.
- Applications that have been submitted will be processed as per the stated processing times listed on the Immigration SA website and in accordance with priority processing arrangements.
- Subclass 892/893/888/405 applications are unaffected by the above closure and can continue to be submitted online.
We will advise when the online applications for subclass 188/132 have been re-opened.
During this time we encourage applicants to continue to research the benefits of living and doing business in South Australia by undertaking an exploratory visit in preparation for their future application.
What this means in 2026
South Australia’s 2018 closure was a short pause while it waited for more nomination places. Since then the whole business visa program has changed. The business visa stream that this post refers to has closed to new applicants, and the government has moved its focus to the National Innovation visa and to skilled and employer sponsored migration. Here is what that means for you now.
The closure of the program does not cancel existing visas. If you hold a 188 visa, you can still apply for the 888 Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) visa when you meet its requirements, including state or territory nomination for most streams. South Australia continues to assess 888 nominations for people it nominated for a 188 visa. Check the current criteria with the state before you apply, and keep records of your business activity and investments. See also day to day management for the 888 visa.
Next steps
- If you hold a 188 visa, check your visa expiry date and the 888 requirements for your stream now, and plan your nomination early.
- If you were planning a new business visa, review whether you have the achievements needed for the National Innovation visa, or look at the New Zealand investor options.
- Get advice before you invest or move, so your plans fit a visa that is currently open.
- Book a consultation with our team to review your options.
Related guides
- National Innovation visa (subclass 858)
- 888 Business Innovation and Investment (Permanent) visa
- State requirements for Business visas
- COVID-19 Concessions for Business visas (historical)
- 188A Business Innovation visa
- 188B Investor Visa
- 188C Significant Investor
- 188D Premium Investor visa
- 188E Entrepreneur visa
- 132 Business Talent (Permanent) Visa A | B
- Australia Business Visa (Subclass 188) Points Calculator (Instant)
- Business visa news
- Which countries do Business Migrants come from?
- Upcoming Australia Immigration Changes 2021- Business and Investment Visas
- What is day to day management for the 888 Business Permanent visa?
