Investor Visa Australia (Subclass 891)

The Investor Visa Subclass 891 is a permanent residency visa tailored for individuals who have held a Subclass 162 (Investor – Provisional) visa and maintained a designated investment of AUD 1.5 million in an Australian state or territory for at least four years. It is specifically designed for businesspeople and investors who have already demonstrated a financial commitment to Australia and now wish to establish long-term residence while continuing their business or investment activities in the country.


By transitioning from a provisional to a permanent visa, successful applicants gain access to Australia’s public healthcare system (Medicare), unrestricted work and study rights, and the ability to sponsor eligible family members. The visa also includes a five-year travel facility, supporting ongoing global business interests. Most notably, the Subclass 891 visa offers a clear pathway to Australian citizenship, making it an ideal option for those seeking both economic opportunity and long-term security in Australia.

Why Should You Choose the Investor Visa Subclass 891?

You should choose the Investor Visa Subclass 891 because it offers a clear, independent pathway to permanent residency in Australia for experienced business investors. The visa allows holders to live indefinitely in Australia without the need for state or family sponsorship, making it a strategic choice for business-minded individuals. With this visa, applicants gain access to Medicare and other public services, ensuring comprehensive healthcare and social support. The visa is specifically tailored for those who have held a designated investment under Subclass 162 and maintained genuine business or investment activity in the country.
In addition to permanent residency, the Subclass 891 visa provides a 5-year international travel facility, enabling freedom of movement in and out of Australia. It also serves as a pathway to Australian citizenship, provided applicants meet additional residency and character requirements. This makes it ideal for long-term business investors looking to establish secure, ongoing ties with Australia while enjoying the legal, economic, and lifestyle benefits of permanent settlement.

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What Is the Investor Visa Subclass 891 and Who Is It For?

The Investor Visa Subclass 891 is a permanent visa granted to individuals who have held a Subclass 162 (Investor – Provisional) visa and wish to remain in Australia to continue their business or investment activities. This visa is specifically designed for businesspeople and investors who have demonstrated a sustained commitment to the Australian economy by maintaining an eligible investment over a defined period.
To qualify for the 891 visa, applicants must have held a designated investment of at least AUD 1.5 million in an Australian state or territory for a minimum of four years. While maintaining the investment, applicants must also show evidence of ongoing involvement in business or investment activities within Australia. This visa supports individuals who intend to settle permanently and contribute economically through continued enterprise or asset management.

What Are the Eligibility Criteria and Key Requirements for the Investor Visa Subclass 891?

To be eligible for the Investor Visa Subclass 891, applicants must meet specific residency, investment, and character requirements that demonstrate their long-term commitment to Australia’s economic and social systems. This visa is intended for individuals who have previously held a Subclass 162 visa, maintained a significant investment, and actively participated in business or investment activities within Australia.

The key requirements include:

Residence Requirement

Must have lived in Australia as a 162 - Investor (Provisional) visa holder for at least 2 of the last 4 years before applying.

Maintained a Designated Investment

Must have held a designated investment of AUD 1.5 million in an Australian state or territory for at least 4 years.

Business or Investment Activity

Should have a genuine and ongoing commitment to maintain business or investment activity in Australia.

Proof of English Proficiency

If your native language is not English, you will need to provide scores from an approved English language test such as IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE Academic. These test results demonstrate that you meet the language requirements for your chosen program.

Health and Medical Insurance

International students must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) to ensure access to medical services while studying in Australia. You must provide proof of your health insurance coverage, either through a private insurer or an OSHC provider approved by the Australian government.

Medical Examination

Some countries require students to undergo a medical examination as part of the visa application process. This is to ensure that students meet the health requirements set by the Australian government and do not pose a health risk to the community.

Health and Characte

Must meet minimum health requirements set by the Australian government and satisfy the character criteria set under section 501 of the Migration Act 1958.

No Outstanding Debts

Must not owe any debts to the Australian Government, or must have arranged repayment terms.

Not have visa Canceled

Must not have had any previous visa cancelled or refused while in Australia.

How Does the Application Process Work for the Investor Visa Subclass 891?

The application process for the Investor Visa Subclass 891 involves an online submission through ImmiAccount, supported by evidence of eligibility and compliance with visa conditions. Applicants must follow a structured series of steps to ensure their application meets all requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs.

What Are the Step-by-Step Stages to Apply?

The step-by-step procedure to apply for the Investor Visa Subclass 891 is given below:

1. Check Eligibility

Confirm that you meet all the key criteria, including residency, investment duration, business activity, and health and character requirements.

2. Prepare Required Documents

Gather all necessary documentation such as proof of investment, residency evidence, identity documents, and health and character clearances.

3. Apply Online via ImmiAccount

Submit your application through the official ImmiAccount portal, managed by the Department of Home Affairs. Here is how you can create your ImmiAccount:

  • Visit the Department of Home Affairs website.
  • Choose the “Create ImmiAccount” option.
  • Fill in the details, including email address and contact information.
  • Choose your username and password.
  • Confirm your email address through a verification link.
  • Once your account is created, log in and proceed with your application.

4. Await Visa Decision

Once submitted, your application will be assessed. Processing times may vary based on documentation completeness and case complexity.

5. Submit Any Additional Information Requested

If additional details or documents are needed, respond promptly to ensure your application continues without unnecessary delays.

What Documents Do You Need for the Visa Application?

For the Investor Visa Subclass 891, you need to submit a range of documents that verify your identity, investment history, residence, and character, along with supporting information for all included family members. Accurate and complete documentation is essential to avoid delays or complications in processing.

Documents for Main Applicant

Documents for Partner

Documents for Dependents Under 18

Documents for Dependents Over 18

Proof of functional English

Character Documents

How Long Does It Take to Process the Investor Visa and What Are the Costs?

The Investor Visa Subclass 891 has no set processing time, and the total cost ranges from AUD 2,890 to AUD 4,890, depending on the number of applicants included in your application. It is important to prepare a complete and accurate submission to avoid unnecessary delays and additional expenses.

What Are the Government Fees Involved?

The government charges the following application fees for the Subclass 891 visa

  • Main applicant: AUD 2,890
  • Additional applicants aged 18 and over: AUD 1,445
  • Additional applicants under 18 years of age: AUD 720
  • Second instalment for family members: AUD 4,890

What Benefits Do You Get with the Investor Visa Subclass 891?

The Investor Visa Subclass 891 provides a range of long-term benefits, including permanent residency, access to public services, and a clear pathway to Australian citizenship. It is designed to reward eligible investors who have contributed to Australia’s economy with security, flexibility, and full participation in Australian life.

The 6 key benefits of subclass 891 are given below

  • Permanent Residency in Australia:
    Live in Australia indefinitely with the rights and protections of a permanent resident.
  • Access to Medicare: 
    Gain entry to Australia’s public healthcare system, covering essential medical services.
  • Unrestricted Work and Study Rights:
    Work in any occupation or pursue further education without limitations.
  • Sponsor Family Members:
    Bring eligible family members to Australia by sponsoring their visa applications.
  • Five-Year Travel Facility:
    Travel freely in and out of Australia for five years from the visa grant date.
  • Path to Citizenship:
    Become eligible to apply for Australian citizenship once residency and other conditions are fulfilled.

Can This Visa Lead to Australian Citizenship by Investment?

Yes, the Investor Visa Subclass 891 can lead to Australian citizenship by investment once specific residency and eligibility conditions are fulfilled. A permanent residency visa forms a critical step in the citizenship pathway for high-net-worth individuals who have made sustained investments in Australia.

To qualify for citizenship, visa holders must generally have lived in Australia for at least four years, including one year as a permanent resident. They must also meet additional requirements such as demonstrating good character, possessing a basic knowledge of English, and understanding Australian values and responsibilities. Once these criteria are met, applicants may apply for Australian citizenship through the Department of Home Affairs, thereby completing the transition from investor to full citizen.

How Can StudyCo Help You Secure an Investor Visa?

StudyCo provides end-to-end support for securing the Investor Visa Subclass 891, from verifying your eligibility to offering ongoing guidance after visa approval. Our tailored services are designed to simplify the application process and improve your chances of success, especially in complex business and investment-related cases.

Why Trust Our Experts for Your Application?

You can trust StudyCo’s experienced visa consultants due to their in-depth knowledge of business and investor visa categories. Our team has a proven track record of successfully handling even the most complex applications, ensuring compliance with the latest immigration policies and investment criteria set by the Department of Home Affairs.

How Do We Simplify Your Visa Journey?

You can trust StudyCo’s experienced visa consultants due to their in-depth knowledge of business and investor visa categories. Our team has a proven track record of successfully handling even the most complex applications, ensuring compliance with the latest immigration policies and investment criteria set by the Department of Home Affairs.

What Post-Visa Support Do We Offer?

StudyCo goes beyond the application by offering comprehensive post-visa support. We assist with your transition to permanent residency, help you connect with local business networks, and provide guidance for family members’ visa processes, ensuring a smooth and successful settlement in Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)?

No, you must hold a valid Subclass 162 visa at the time of applying for the Subclass 891 visa. This is because the 891 visa is a permanent pathway available only to the current 162 visa holders, and an expired visa disqualifies you from applying.

No, you only need a new investment. But, you must have maintained the original AUD 1.5 million designated investment for at least four years in an Australian state or territory, which satisfies the visa’s investment condition.

Yes, all family members included in the application have unrestricted work and study rights. The Subclass 891 visa grants full permanent residency rights, allowing dependents to pursue education and employment freely.

No, owning a business is not mandatory to apply. However, you must demonstrate a genuine intention to continue either business or investment activities in Australia as part of your commitment to economic participation.

No, the Subclass 891 visa is not assessed under the points-based system. Unlike other skilled migration pathways, this visa relies on investment history, residency, and compliance rather than a points threshold.

Yes, you can travel during processing, provided your Subclass 162 visa remains valid. It’s important to maintain lawful status in Australia and hold a valid visa at all times, especially when re-entering the country.

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