About the SIV program

 

Business Innovation and Investment (Provisional) (Subclass 188c) Significant Investor Visa (“SIV”) was initially introduced by Australia Federal Government in 2012 (‘Old SIV’), and then a revised SIV regime came into effect for SIV visa application lodged on or after 1 July 2015 (‘New SIV’). Therefore, the rules for a complying investment under the SIV program depend on the date of application by the applicant. Applicants applying for an SIV after 1 July 2015 are required to comply with Migration Regulations 1994 – Regulation 5.19 C (“New Rules”).

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Under the new rules, applicants are required to invest a total amount of A$5 million for the period the visa is in effect (i.e. a minimum period of 4 years) with the option to extend for an additional two years, with a maximum of two extensions permitted (i.e. a maximum investment term of eight years) provided the SIV holder continues to meet certain eligibility requirements.

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SIV Investment Conditions​

 

Significant Investor stream applicants must be willing to make a 'Complying Significant Investment' of at least AUD$5 million over 4 years. The investment must be made as follows:

• Minimum AUD$500,000 in venture capital and growth private equity funds which invest in start-ups and small private companies 

• Minimum AUD$1.5 million in approved managed funds investing in emerging companies listed on the Australian Stock Exchange 

• Minimum $AUD3 million 'balancing investment' in managed funds that may invest in a range of assets, such as ASX-listed companies, Australian corporate bonds or notes, annuities, and commercial real estate.

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A summary of the complying investment framework is available on the Austrade website