• As of 1 March 2003 a new Business Migration program applies. The new program replaces all existing business migration categories, and consists primarily of a two-stage application process. At the first stage business migrants can apply for a provisional visa. Once granted the provisional visa, business migrants have 4 years within which to satisfy all the requirements of the business skills (residence) visa and apply for permanent residence.
• Applicants applying for any of the business skills visas, be it at the provisional or permanent residence stage, can apply for State/Territory government sponsorship. If such sponsorship is obtained, the requirements are significantly lower than under the un-sponsored categories.

The categories under the Business Skills Heading are:

• Business Owners: Owners or part owners of a business
• Senior Executives: senior executive employees of major businesses
• Investors: investors/business people willing to invest in Australia
• Business Employees/ Managers: Senior managers with at least 4 years continuous employment
• Business Talent