In order to apply for a significant investor visa, the client will need to make a complying significant investment of at least AUD 5 million over four years in the following proportions: at least AUD 500,000 in venture capital and growth private equity funds which invest in startups and small private companies; at least AUD 1.5 million in approved managed funds investing in emerging companies listed on the Australian Stock Exchange; a "balancing investment" of at least AUD 3 million in managed funds that may invest in a range of assets, including ASX-listed companies, Australian corporate bonds or notes, annuities and commercial real estate. Direct investment in residential real estate continues to be prohibited and indirect investment in residential property through managed funds is now strictly limited. Investments must not be used as security or collateral for a loan. Pertaining to your circumstances, you may also wish to consider other options under the 188 visa program, such as: business innovation stream, for people with business skills who want to establish, develop and manage a new or existing business in Australia (applicants must be nominated by a state or territory government); investor stream, which is for people who want to make a designated investment of at least AUD 1.5 million in an Australian state or territory and maintain business and investment activity in Australia (applicants must be nominated by a state or territory government, or possibly a business talent visa, subclass 132).
