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Migration News

Queensland Closes New Applications For Regional Small Business Owners Visa Pathway From 19 September 2025

  • synergymigration
  • Sep 22
  • 2 min read

Migration Queensland has closed the small business owner’s pathway for Queensland nomination to new businesses from 19 September 2025. The pathway was designed for small business owners in regional Queensland, those who have either started or purchased a business, to become eligible for Queensland state nomination.


The stream was created to attract entrepreneurial migrants to regional Queensland, offering a pathway to state nomination by investing in or starting small businesses. With the latest update, only businesses purchased or started before 19 September 2025 will remain eligible, subject to transitional arrangements.


What’s Changing


Businesses started or purchased after 19 September 2025 will not be eligible for Queensland nomination under this small business owner pathway. If you have started or purchased a business before 19 September 2025, you may still qualify under certain conditions. The rules differ depending on whether your business was purchased or started, and when that purchase or start date occurred.


visa 491 small business owner in Queensland
Businesses started or purchased after 19 September 2025 will not be eligible for Queensland nomination under this small business owner pathway

Two Pathways Under The Program


Business Purchase Pathway


Applicants must purchase an existing registered business in a designated regional area for at least AUD 100,000. The business must have been operating for two years prior to purchase, and the new owner must continue operations for at least six months before applying. Employing at least one Australian resident or eligible worker is mandatory.


Business Start-up Pathway


Entrepreneurs who have started their own business may qualify if it has been operating continuously for at least two years, is profitable, and has achieved a turnover of at least AUD 200,000 in the 12 months before lodging a Registration of Interest (ROI).


Key milestones


  • Business Purchases (14 Sept 2024 – 19 Sept 2025): settlement must occur by 30 Sept 2025; ROI due by 30 May 2026.

  • Start-ups (1 June 2024 – 19 Sept 2025): ROI due by 30 April 2027.

  • Start-ups before 1 June 2024: ROI due by 30 May 2026.


Pathway To Permanent Residency


After holding the subclass 491 visa, successful applicants may transition to the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa (subclass 191), provided they meet income thresholds, regional residence requirements, and maintain compliance.


The closure signals a significant change for migrants seeking a business-focused pathway to regional Queensland. While transitional provisions remain, prospective applicants should act quickly to meet deadlines and ensure compliance with requirements.



Navigating visa eligibility and business requirements can be complex. To avoid costly mistakes, it’s strongly recommended that you seek guidance from a Registered Migration Agent (RMA). Book a consultation with us today to assess your options and take the right steps toward your Australian migration goals.


Synergy Migration Services - Trusted companion for your migration journey

📞 Hotline: (07) 3190 8600

💼 Book a consultation: www.synergy-migration.com.au/contact-us

📍 Address: 6/621 Coronation Dr, Toowong, QLD, Australia 4066


 
 
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