Have you dreamed of owning a business in regional Queensland while securing a pathway to permanent residency? This guide will walk you through the Small Business Owner (SBO) stream under the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) pathway (Subclass 491).
At Nationwide Migration and Education, we’ve helped many applicants successfully navigate the SBO stream. With recent changes, having an experienced team to guide you is more important than ever.
What is the SBO Stream?
The SBO stream is designed for migrants living and operating a small business in regional Queensland. The 491 pathway is a points-tested, five-year provisional option that allows you and your dependents to live, work, and study in regional Australia. It also provides a clear route to permanent residency after three years.
There are two options under the SBO stream:
Pathway 1 – Business Purchase
Pathway 2 – Start-up Business
Let’s explore each to determine which fits your goals.
Pathway 1 – Business Purchase
This option is ideal for purchasing an existing business in regional Queensland.
Key Requirements:
Purchase an existing registered business outside of South East Queensland for at least AUD 100,000.
Operate the business for at least six months before submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI).
Employ at least one Australian resident for 20 hours per week or two employees for 10 hours per week each.
Own 100% of the business from the time of purchase.
Important Note: The business must have operated at the same location for at least two years before purchase.
Pathway 2 – Start-up Business
If you’re an entrepreneur with a new business idea, this option might be perfect for you.
Eligibility Criteria:
Operate your start-up business for at least two years in regional Queensland.
Achieve a turnover of at least AUD 200,000 in the 12 months before submitting your EOI.
Own 100% of the business from its inception.
This option is suited to individuals with a proven business model who contribute to the regional economy.
Regional Business Locations: Eligible Postcodes
For Pathway 1 (Business Purchase):
Businesses purchased after 1 September 2024 must be located in:
4370–4390, 4400–4428, 4454–4498, 4570–4571, 4580–4895.
Businesses purchased before 1 September 2024 can follow the full list of regional postcodes for the Subclass 491 pathway.
For Pathway 2 (Start-up Business):
Eligible postcodes include:
4019–4022, 4025, 4037, 4074, 4076–4078, 4124–4125, 4133, 4183–4184, 4207–4275, 4280–4287, 4300–4301, 4303–4498, 4500–4512, 4514–4519, 4521, 4550–4575, 4580–4895.
Additional Requirements and Restrictions
Before investing or starting a business, seek professional legal and financial advice. Our team can connect you with trusted professionals to ensure well-informed decisions.
Key Restrictions:
Vendor financing or purchases from family members are not allowed.
Businesses previously used for migration purposes are ineligible.
You must operate your business for at least three years in a regional area after your pathway is granted.
Passive investments, home-based businesses, and commission agent franchises are not eligible.
Why Choose Nationwide Migration and Education?
Navigating the SBO stream can be complex, especially with recent changes. At Nationwide Migration and Education, we specialize in the 491 SBO stream and offer:
Personalized Guidance: Tailored to your unique situation.
Expertise: A proven track record of success.
Collaborative Support: The collective expertise of our entire team.
Secure Your Future in Regional Queensland
Navigating the SBO stream can feel overwhelming, but our experienced team is here to help—from assessing your eligibility to preparing a strong application.
Don’t leave your future to chance. Book a consultation with one of our experts today and make your dream of owning a business in regional Queensland a reality.
Disclaimer:
The information shared by Nationwide Migration and Education is for general informational purposes only. While accurate at the time of publication, details may change. This content is not intended as legal or migration advice. For advice tailored to your circumstances, please book a consultation with a Registered Migration Agent.
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