Small Business Owner (SBO) Stream for the 491 Visa: Your Pathway to Permanent Residency in Queensland

Have you ever dreamed of owning a business in regional Queensland?and securing a pathway to permanent residency? This guide will walk you through the Small Business Owner (SBO) stream?under the Skilled Work Regional (Provisional) visa (subclass 491).

At Nationwide Migration and Education, we’ve helped many applicants successfully obtain their 491 visas through the SBO stream. With recent changes announced this year, having an experienced team to guide you through the process is more important than ever.

What is the SBO Stream?

The SBO stream?is designed for migrants currently living and operating a small business in regional Queensland. The 491 visa is a points-tested, five-year provisional visa?that allows you and your dependents to live, work, and study?in regional Australia and provides a pathway to permanent residency?after three years.

There are two pathways under the SBO stream:

• Pathway 1 – Business Purchase
• Pathway 2 – Start-up Business

Let’s explore each pathway to help you determine which one is right for you.

Pathway 1 – Business Purchase

This pathway is ideal if you plan to purchase an existing business?in regional Queensland. Below are the key requirements:

• Purchase an existing registered business?outside of South East Queensland for at least AUD 100,000.
• Operate the business for a minimum of six months?before submitting your Expression of Interest (EOI).
• Employ at least one Australian resident, working 20 hours per week, or two employees working 10 hours per week each.
• Own 100% of the business?from the time of purchase.

Important Note:?The business you purchase must have been operating at the same location for at least two years?before you acquire it.

Pathway 2 – Start-up Business

If you’re an entrepreneur with a new business idea, this pathway might be right for you. To be eligible:

• Operate your start-up business for at least two years?in regional Queensland.
• The business must be profitable, with a turnover of at least AUD 200,000?in the 12 months prior to submitting your EOI.
• Own 100% of the business?from its inception.

This pathway is perfect for those with a proven business model?and who are contributing to the regional Queensland economy.

Regional Business Locations: Eligible Postcodes

Your business must be located in eligible regional postcodes.

For Pathway 1 (Business Purchase):

• Businesses purchased after 1 September 2024?must be located in the following postcodes:4370–4390, 4400–4428, 4454–4498, 4570–4571, 4580–4895.
• If the business was purchased before 1 September 2024, the full list of regional postcodes?for the 491 visa applies.

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, it’s essential to seek professional legal and financial advice. Our team can connect you with trusted professionals?to ensure your decisions are well-informed.

Please also note the following:

• Vendor financing or purchasing from family members?is not allowed.
• You cannot purchase a business?that has previously been used for migration purposes.
• You must operate your business for at least three years?in a regional area after your visa is granted.
• Certain types of businesses—such as passive investments, home-based businesses, or commission agents of franchises—are not eligible under this stream.

Why Choose Nationwide Migration and Education?

Navigating the SBO stream can be complex, especially with the recent changes. That’s why it’s crucial to work with a migration agency with a proven track record of success. At Nationwide Migration and Education, our team of Registered Migration Agents?specializes in the 491 visa SBO stream.

We offer personalized guidance?tailored to your unique situation. When you choose us, you gain the collective expertise?of our entire team—not just one agent.

Secure Your Future in Regional Queensland

With the new changes and specific requirements, navigating the SBO stream on your own can feel overwhelming. Our experienced team?will guide you every step of the way, 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 let’s make your dream of owning a business in regional Queensland?a reality.

Disclaimer:

The information shared by Nationwide Migration and Education on social media and blogs is for general informational purposes only. (The information is accurate at the time of publication but may be subject to change.) It is not legal or immigration advice and should not be relied upon as such.

If you need immigration advice specific to your circumstances,?please book a consultation with our Registered Migration Agent.