Regional certifying body (RCB)
Statutory definition
Regional certifying bodies are state and territory government agencies or other designated bodies that assess whether an applicant for certain business or investor visa programs meets the regional investment or business activity requirements. The use of RCBs has evolved over successive business and investor visa programs; under the current Business Innovation and Investment Program, state/territory agencies play a similar gatekeeping role.
Explanation
Regional certifying bodies provide a local assessment gateway for business and investor visa programs. Their certification indicates that the proposed investment or business activity meets the regional criteria before the federal Department of Home Affairs assesses the visa application. The requirements vary by state/territory and by the specific business or investor program. Applicants should engage with the relevant RCB or state agency early in the planning process, as their requirements may differ from the federal criteria.