Australian Residency by Investment: This is how you qualify - Immigration to Australia (2024)

Here’s the first thing to know about Australian residency by investment – you need to have at least AUD2.5 million to invest. For that investment, you’ll get a provisional visa that offers a pathway to permanent residence.

Let’s get some basic questions out of the way before delving into how to get residency by investment:

Can I get PR if I buy property in Australia?

No, buying a property in Australia does not secure you Permanent Residency. You must invest at least AUD2.5 million instead. Even when doing so, you’ll only get a provisional visa, i.e. temporary residence. You will, however, be eligible to apply for PR if you meet the requirements.

How much do I need to invest in Australia to get PR?

You must invest at least AUD2.5 million. As explained above, you don’t automatically get permanent residence when investing in Australia.

Can you buy Australian citizenship?

No, you cannot. You’ll first apply for a provisional visa and then permanent residency. Only once you have permanent residency you’ll be able to apply for Australian citizenship, provided you meet the criteria.

What is the Australian Investor visa?

When talking about the Australian Investor visa, we’re commonly referring to a visa under the Investor stream. This visa stream falls under Australia’s Business Innovation and Investment program.

To be eligible to apply, you must invest at least AUD2.5 million in Australia. This investment will put you on the path to residency and enable you to maintain business or investment activity in Australia.

What are the basic requirements?

To meet the basic requirements of the Investor stream, you must:

  • Be under the age of 55
  • Be nominated by a state or territory government agency to invest at least:
    • AUD2.5 million that meets specific criteria
    • Have net business, investment and personal assets worth at least AUD2.5 million
  • Score at least 65 on the points test
  • Meet the English language, health, and character requirements

What are the business and financial requirements?

The Australian Department of Home Affairs has specific and strict criteria that everyone intending on applying for a visa under the Investor stream must meet:

1. You must have managed a qualifying business or investments to the value of at least AUD2.5 million

For at least one of the five fiscal years immediately before getting an invitation to apply, you must have directly managed one of the following:

  • A qualifying business, where you (and/or your spouse or de facto partner, if applicable) owned at least 10% of the business’s total value
  • Eligible investments owned by you (and/or your spouse or de facto partner, if applicable) totaling at least AUD2.5 million

2. You must have assets equaling at least AUD2.5 million

For the two financial years immediately before you are invited to apply for a visa, you (and/or your spouse or de facto partner, if applicable) must have had business and personal assets with a net value of at least AUD2.5 million.

These assets must have been legally acquired and must be available for legal transfer to Australia within two years of the date that your visa is granted.

3. You must make a complying investment in Australia

You must make a complying significant investment of at least AUD2.5 million, and you must hold these complying significant investments continuously for the duration of your provisional visa.

Your investment must be invested in the following proportions:

  • At least AUD500,000 in venture capital and growth private equity funds which invest in start-ups and small private companies
  • At least AUD750,000 in approved managed funds. The managed funds must invest in emerging companies listed on the Australian Stock Exchange
  • A ‘balancing investment’ of at least AUD1.25 million in managed funds. These funds can invest in various assets, including companies listed on the Australian stock exchange, Australian corporate bonds or notes, annuities, and commercial real estate.

The Department of Home Affairs prohibits direct investment in residential real estate and strictly limits indirect investment in residential property through managed funds.

You can find more detailed information about complying significant investments in Austrade’s Guide to Investing.

4. You must have the right experience

The Department of Home Affairs wants to see the following with regards to your business experience:

  • You must have at least 3 years’ experience in the management of one or more qualifying businesses or eligible investments
  • You must have a successful record of eligible investment or qualifying business activity, and you must have demonstrated a high level of management skills in relation to these investments or business activity

Furthermore, you (and your spouse/de facto partner, if applicable) must have had no involvement in unacceptable business or investment activities.

Here’s how the application process works…

Step 1 – Getting assessed

You must start by getting your eligibility assessed to apply for a visa under the Investor stream.

During an assessment, a licensed advisor will reviewyour personal circ*mstances, as well as the details of your investments and/or business activities, to establish whether or not you are likely to meet the relevant requirements.

Step 2 – Expression of Interest

If your eligibility assessment shows that you meet the requirements to apply for a visa under the Investor stream, you can lodge an Expression of Interest (EOI). Your Expression of Interest sets out how you meet the relevant requirements.

You’ll also indicate in your Expression of Interest which Australian State or Territory you wish to nominate your visa application. Alternatively, you can choose to be available for nomination by any State or Territory.

Step 3 – Nomination by a State or Territory

Once your EOI has been lodged, the government agency of the State or Territory that you have chosen will review your EOI to determine whether you meet their criteria for nomination.

If your supporting evidence is deemed acceptable, the State or Territory government agency will then nominate you for the visa.

Step 4 – Visa application

Once you have successfully obtained a State or Territory nomination, and the Department of Home Affairs has invited you to apply for a visa, you’ll be able to submit your visa application.

Next steps

When the Department of Home Affairs is ready to approve your visa application, you’ll get an invite to make your designated investment in Australia. You’ll have to invest at least AUD2.5 million in an approved investment as described above.

Once you’ve made your investment and your visa application has been approved, you’ll be granted a provisional visa that’s valid for five years. You may be either in Australia or overseas when your visa is granted.

Your family can join you too

You can include members of your immediate family unit in your visa application. Any family members that you include must also meet Australia’s health and character requirements.

You can apply for Permanent Residence after three years

Once you’ve held your provisional visa for at least three years, you’ll be able to apply for permanent residence under the subclass 888 Business Innovation and Investment visa if you meet the requirements.

Are there any other Residency by Investment options?

Yes, you may also choose to get Australian Residency by Investment through the Significant Investor stream. The Significant Investor stream requires an investment of at least AUD5 million instead but there are no age restrictions and you don’t have to do a points test.

Find out more about the Significant Investor stream.

Find out if you qualify to apply for Australian Residency by Investment

Want to know if you quality for apply for Australian Residency by Investment?

Simply book a consultation call with us. You’ll speak directly with a licensed advisor who will assess your eligibility, advise on your visa options for Australia, and explain the immigration process to you.

You’ll walk away from the call knowing exactly how to proceed with your immigration!

Australian Residency by Investment: This is how you qualify - Immigration to Australia (2024)

FAQs

How much can you invest in Australia to get permanent residency? ›

Applicants can be granted a five-year visa by investment of AUD 1.25 million or more. Applicants who maintain their investment can then obtain permanent residency in Australia.

How much do you need to invest to immigrate to Australia? ›

Investor stream

This provisional visa requires you to invest at least AUD2. 5 million in Australian investments that meet certain requirements and maintain business or investment activity in Australia.

How can I satisfy my residence requirement in Australia? ›

General eligibility criteria for citizenship

satisfy the residence requirement. be likely to reside, or to continue to reside, in Australia or to maintain a close and continuing association with Australia. be of good character.

How do I prove sufficient funds for Australian visa? ›

While there is no specific or set amount that you are required to have in your bank account, the Department of Home Affairs will want to see that you have enough money for the length and breadth of your visit in Australia. This can be proven through: Personal bank statements. Pay slips.

Is it hard to get Australian permanent residency? ›

Applying for Australian PR can be a lengthy process, it is imperative to gather as much information about the process and what visa category is suitable for you. If you are unsure about steps in the pathway to gaining PR, we would recommend that you speak with a professional consultant.

Can I live in Australia if I buy a house? ›

Typically you need to be a permanent resident or citizen to buy property in Australia and many of the available home loans also require you to be Aussie. But don't fret, foreigners can still buy: the property needs to be categorised as an investment and you need to get government approval.

How much money do I need in my bank to go to Australia? ›

You should have savings equivalent to AUD $5000 – be prepared to show proof of the money you have in your bank account. On top of your savings, you should have a return air ticket or enough funds to pay for a flight home. How long can I stay in Australia on a Working Holiday visa?

How much do you need in your bank account to immigrate to Australia? ›

We would advise that you set out with at least $15,000 before making your move, excepting the cost of your visa; this will allow you to settle in the country and give you a safety net for your first 6-9 months of living in the country.

Can I migrate to Australia without a job offer? ›

The subclass 189 also known as the Skilled Independent Visa is the most popular PR Visa that allows you to move to Australia without a job offer or employer-sponsorship. To be eligible for this visa you need a minimum 90 points in the Points Grid System.

What are the requirements for a US citizen to move to Australia? ›

You need to immigrate to Australia formally. This starts with having a good reason for living in Australia, such as work or study. You must apply for and obtain an Australian visa to support your reason. And understanding the cost of living and the culture will help you decide if Australia is a great place to live.

How to prove you are returning to your home country Australia? ›

Proof that you have reasons to return home such as: a letter from your employer stating you plan to return to your job. proof that you study at a school, college or university in your home country. proof that you have immediate family members in your home country.

How do you prove you can return home Australia? ›

Provide proof that you intend to return home​

These documents could include: a current payslip. a letter from your employer granting you leave from work. a certificate of enrolment in education in your home country​

How many months of bank statement do I need to show for Australia visa application? ›

Financial Requirements for Australia Student Visa

You must have at least 12 months' worth of funds to cover your living expenses in Australia, including those of any family members who accompany you.

Can a 70 year old emigrate to Australia? ›

Becoming a citizen by conferral is a common way to become an Australian citizen. You need to be a permanent resident and meet certain criteria before you can apply.

Where is the easiest place to get permanent residency in Australia? ›

Therefore, if your occupation is not on the Skilled Occupation List (SOL), you can still find multiple opportunities. However, there are many Australian states where one can choose to live, but the perfect answer to which state is easy to get PR in Australia is Tasmania.

Which visas lead to permanent residency in Australia? ›

Three common ways of becoming a permanent resident are through gaining:
  • a family-stream permanent visa.
  • a work-stream permanent visa.
  • business or investor-stream permanent visa.
Jun 17, 2021

What salary do you need to buy a house in Australia? ›

Home Affordability By State And Territory
State/TerritoryMedian property pricesAnnual gross income to avoid mortgage stress
Queensland$662,199$90,000
South Australia$558,179$73,000
Western Australia$528,540$71,000
Tasmania$676,595$91,500
4 more rows

How long does it take to get permanent residency in Australia? ›

You can apply for citizenship after living in Australia for four years with an Australia PR visa.

How long do you have to live in Australia before you can buy a house? ›

Again, in NSW, you need to be living in the country for at least 200 days before you can buy a property and, therefore, apply for the FHOG. You can even potentially avoid stamp duty or at least qualify for stamp duty concessions if you can meet the following criteria: You're a first home buyer.

How much money can be transferred to Australia from USA? ›

There is no limit to the amount of money that you can travel with, receive and send overseas. You don't need to declare money that you transfer overseas or receive from overseas through a bank or a remittance service provider (money transfer business).

How much cash can I carry from Australia to USA? ›

You may bring large sums of money with you in the form of cash, money order, or traveler's checks. There is no maximum limit, however, any amount exceeding $10,000 USD must be declared upon arrival on both the Form 6059B and FinCEN 105. All forms must be filled in completely and truthfully.

Do you need $5000 to get into Australia? ›

Technically, to enter Australia on a working holiday visa, you're required to have one of three things: A bank statement proving access to a minimum of $5,000 AUD (around USD $4,000) A booked departure flight back out of the country or enough additional funds to purchase one.

Can a US citizen have an Australian bank account? ›

If you want to open a bank account in Australia, then I have some good news – it's rather easy to do so even as a non-resident. In fact, thanks to Australian banking laws, you can even open an account if you don't have an Australian address (provided you haven't been in the country for more than six weeks).

Can I open aus bank as us citizen? ›

Yes. Most Australian bank accounts make it quite simple for foreigners to open a bank account in the country. Unlike some places, you do not have to be in the country to do so.

What is the oldest age you can emigrate to Australia? ›

The Regional Sponsorship Visa 494, even though it is a temporary Visa, also has an age limit of 45 years old.

Can an American move to Australia without job? ›

Family Sponsorship Visa

Under this program, you can move to Australia without a job if you have a family member who is a permanent resident or Australian citizen. You can use this option if your spouse, sibling, parent, or other close relative is willing to sponsor your PR visa.

Can you move to Australia if you are over 50? ›

Aged Parent visa (subclass 804): You must be old enough to receive the age pension in Australia. Contributory Aged Parent visas (subclasses 864 and 884): You must be old enough to receive the age pension in Australia. Contributory Parent visas (subclasses 143 and 173): You must apply as a retiree.

Can I sponsor myself in Australia? ›

You may obtain a sc 482 visa (via the pathway self – sponsorship) if you decide to found a company in Australia and to delegate or second yourself to Australia as an employee in your own company. A self-sponsored sc 482 visa may put you on a pathway to permanent residency in Australia.

How long can I live in Australia as a US citizen? ›

Eligibility requirements for an ETA for U.S. citizens

To be eligible for an ETA to enter Australia, you must meet the following requirements: Hold a valid U.S. passport. You're traveling to Australia for tourism or business purposes only. You will stay in Australia for 90 days or less.

Can a retired US citizen move to Australia? ›

​​​Retirement visa pathway. The Australian Government has created a pathway to permanent residency for eligible retirees. This pathway provides options to long-term residents who have contributed to, and are well established in, the community.

How long can I stay in Australia as a US citizen? ›

Most U.S. passport holders traveling to Australia for tourism or business purposes for less than 90 days can obtain an (ETA). The ETA is an electronic label-free visa and can be obtained at the ETA website for a small service fee.

How do I prove my funds for Australia migration? ›

Getting a proof of funds letter is fairly simple. Applicants can acquire the letter by requesting one from their bank or other financial institution holding their money. A paper or online bank statement may also work if you want to use it as proof of funds for Australia PR.

Do I need to lodge a tax return in Australia if I live overseas? ›

Australian resident going overseas

If you remain an Australian resident, you must lodge an Australian tax return. If you work while overseas, you must declare: all your foreign employment income. any exempt income even if tax was withheld in the country where you earned it.

How long can an Australian citizen stay out of Australia? ›

You must notify the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) if you plan to move overseas for six months (183 days) or more in a twelve-month period. You must do this within 7 days from the date of leaving Australia. Update your contact details via myGov. If you already live overseas, you must notify the ATO.

How much is the return visa for Australia? ›

It may cost you up to $405 if you apply online for the Resident Return Visa (Subclass 155 & 157) or $485 to apply on paper.

What are the compelling reasons for resident return visa Australia? ›

Compelling reasons for absence
  • severe illness or death of an overseas family member,
  • work or study commitments by the applicant or the applicant's partner,
  • the applicant is living overseas in an ongoing relationship with a partner, or has minor children,

What financial documents are required for Australian visa? ›

Documents Required for Availability of Fund
  • Copy of Bank Balance statement / Certificate.
  • Copy of Bank Fixed Deposits.
  • Education Loan letter.
  • Loan Against Property | Mortgage Loan letter.
  • Disbursem*nt of Loan (If Possible)

Who can sponsor you in Australia? ›

The applicant must be sponsored by a settled Australian citizen or a settled Australian permanent resident, who is aged at least 18. Settled generally means residing lawfully in Australia for a minimum period of two years. The sponsor must also be an eligible relative.

How many bank statements do I need for immigration? ›

If you are able to have a Joint Account, USCIS would require 12 months of statements, or as many as possible. Meaning, if you've been married for 2 years, and have a joint account for 3 years, USCIS would want 3-years of bank statements. The more the better.

How can I invest in Australia and get citizenship? ›

Australian Citizenship by Investment
  1. successful business history and net assets of AUD $1,25 million or.
  2. the making of an approved investment of AUD $2.5 million and net assets of $2.5 million or.
  3. the making of approved investments of at least AUD $5 million or.
  4. must have a complying entreprenuer activity in Australia or.

Can a millionaire move to Australia? ›

Australia Investor Visa

The Australian Significant Investor Visa ( Australia Golden Visa ) was introduced by the government in 2012. It offers a streamlined pathway for High Net Worth Individuals (HNWI) to Permanent Residency in Australia through investment immigration.

Can I invest in Australia as a foreigner? ›

The Australian Government welcomes foreign investment. Certain investments are subject to review under Australia's foreign investment review framework.

How do I get permanent residency by investment? ›

Requirements for an investor Green Card
  1. Invest $1.8 million (respectively $900,000 in targeted employment areas)
  2. Present a business plan that explains how the US economy will benefit from your investment.
  3. Create or preserve at least ten full-time jobs for American workers.

Can a US citizen become an Australian citizen? ›

You may be eligible for Australian citizenship by descent if you were born outside Australia and one (or both) of your parents at the time of your birth was also an Australian citizen at that time. Check your eligibility before you apply. Apply online through ImmiAccount.

Can US citizens have dual citizenship with Australia? ›

US dual citizenship countries list. As an American citizen, you can enjoy dual citizenship in numerous countries. To name a few, you can have citizenship in the following countries: Australia, the United Kingdom, Dominica, Cyprus, Malta, Portugal, Spain, Belgium, and Denmark.

Can you move to Australia at 60? ›

Becoming a citizen by conferral is a common way to become an Australian citizen. You need to be a permanent resident and meet certain criteria before you can apply.

Can an American just move to Australia? ›

If you move to Australia from the USA or another country and want to stay long-term or permanently, there are ways to apply for permanent residency. With a permanent residency visa, you can live, work, and study in Australia without any restrictions.

What is the fastest way to move to Australia? ›

Let's Start With The Easiest Way To Migrate To Australia:
  1. Employer-Sponsored Visa. ...
  2. Skilled Visa. ...
  3. Medical Visa. ...
  4. Working Holiday Visa. ...
  5. Business Visa. ...
  6. Investor Retirement. ...
  7. Student Visa. ...
  8. Partner/Family Visa:
May 27, 2022

Can I get PR if I buy property in Australia? ›

Buying property in Australia does not automatically qualify you for permanent residency. However, most states in Australia use a points-based system to assess whether to grant you residency. In some states, purchasing a property and living in the country will help your case. You will need to prove you own the property.

What is the minimum investment in Australia? ›

to carry out business or entrepreneurial activities in Australia. Must secure funding of at least 200,000 AUD from an approved funding body.

What is the safest investment in Australia? ›

Investing in government and corporate bonds

Government and corporate bonds are considered the safest option as they offer a fixed rate of return. The advantage of this is that they do not fluctuate wildly like other investments, but the disadvantage is that without the lows there are no corresponding highs.

Which is the cheapest residency by investment? ›

The Antigua and Barbuda citizenship program is vastly better for families to apply for as the cheapest passport to buy.
  • Antigua and Barbuda $152,000;
  • Saint Lucia $190,500;
  • Saint Kitts and Nevis $192,500;
  • Dominica $199,500;
  • Grenada $235,100:

How much money do you need for an investor visa? ›

The applicant must make a substantial investment to qualify for the E2 investor visa. However, the law does not state a minimum dollar amount. Generally, the applicant should be prepared to invest at least $100,000 US dollars in the enterprise to have a good E2 visa case.

Which country gives fastest citizenship by investment? ›

Let's look at the countries with the fastest citizenship and what else they offer.
  • Vanuatu: 1–2 months. ...
  • Dominica: 2–6 months. ...
  • St Kitts and Nevis: 2–6 months. ...
  • St Lucia: 3–4 months. ...
  • Grenada: 4–6 months. ...
  • Antigua and Barbuda: 4–6 months. ...
  • Turkey: 6–8 months. ...
  • Malta: 1–3 years.

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