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Asia Pacific · Residency

Australia Legacy Investor Stream, Changes and Status in 2026

Australia closed its business and investor visa streams to new applicants in 2024. This page exists so the current position is clear.

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Reference
Official authorityAustralian Department of Home Affairs
ProgrammeAustralia legacy investor stream
Information current as ofJune 2026
Official source →

Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.

Reviewed by the Passports for Kings editorial team. Last reviewed 20 May 2026.
This route is reported closed, paused or not currently available: The Business Innovation and Investment Program closed to new applications on 31 July 2024.. We publish this page so the position is clear. Do not rely on older figures.

What changed

As part of its Migration Strategy, Australia closed the Business Innovation and Investment Program to new applications on 31 July 2024. This included the investor and significant investor streams within the Subclass 188 visa. New significant investor applications are no longer accepted.

Existing applications lodged before the closing date continue to be processed, subject to annual planning limits. The government has signalled a shift toward talent and innovation focused pathways rather than passive investment routes.

Current rules

There is no open passive investor or significant investor visa for new applicants as of June 2026. Holders of an existing Subclass 188 visa may still be able to progress to the permanent Subclass 888 visa, and certain extension applications remain available, under the rules set by the Department of Home Affairs. Confirm your specific eligibility with the official authority.

What to watch

Australia has discussed new talent and innovation visa settings. Anyone seeking residence through investment should watch official announcements and verify the current visa list with the Department of Home Affairs before making plans, since no replacement passive investment route is guaranteed.

Common questions

Can I still apply for the Australian significant investor visa?

No. The Business Innovation and Investment Program, including the significant investor stream, closed to new applications on 31 July 2024. Confirm the current position with the Department of Home Affairs.

What happens to applications lodged before the closure?

Applications lodged before 31 July 2024 continue to be processed subject to planning limits. Check the status of your own application with the Department of Home Affairs.

Is there a replacement investor visa?

As of June 2026 there is no open passive investment visa for new applicants. The government has pointed toward talent and innovation pathways. Verify the current visa list with the official authority.

Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.

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Information, not advice. Figures are indicative and current as of June 2026. Always confirm the present rules with the official program authority and a licensed professional before you act.

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