There are six classes for business skills. This one is for people who own a business, or part of a business and have sponsorship from the State or Territory in which they intend to set up business. If you cannot meet the criteria for the size and success of your business alone, see if you can apply for a visa with Australian business sponsorship to help you.

The criteria for entry to Australia as a business skills migrant are complicated and individual. When you've read through our self-assessment, we advise you put together a rough portfolio for your application and then make an appointment to see the migration officer in your nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate. They will encourage you to come and see them - Australia welcomes skilled business people, particularly those that come to settle in regions of low economic growth and show an interest in starting new enterprises to employ the local population. Stress the advantages for Australia you will bring with your skills.

Migrants entering Australia with business skills do not need a personal sponsor: this section is about a sponsor to help you get started in your business. You will need to be financially independent and able to prove your skills in business or in running a portfolio of investments as a business skill.

For this visa application, Australian Visas will give you the bones of the criteria for entry. The costs involved here are considerable - AUD$3100 for your application alone, which is non-refundable. You can view our self-assessment and study the alternatives before making any moves.