Australia Golden Visa 2025 – Application Process

The Significant Investor Visa (SIV), often called Australia’s Golden Visa, allows high-net-worth individuals to obtain residency by investing at least AUD 5 million into complying Australian investments. It is part of the Business Innovation and Investment Program and provides a pathway to permanent residency and eventually citizenship.

Key Features:

• Minimum Investment: AUD 5 million in approved investment streams
• Visa Validity: 4 years and 3 months (provisional)
• Pathway to PR: Subclass 888 Significant Investor Visa
• No Age Limit: Unlike most skilled visas
• No English Test Required
• Family Members Included: Spouse/partner and dependent children
• Residency Requirement: Flexible – 40 days per year in Australia (main applicant) OR 180 days per year (spouse/partner)

Investment Requirements:

Applicants must allocate AUD 5 million across three categories via registered fund managers:

• Venture Capital & Growth Private Equity (min. AUD 1 million)
  – Invested in start-ups and emerging companies in Australia.
• Small & Medium Enterprise (SME) Funds (min. AUD 1.5 million)
  – Investment in managed funds targeting ASX-listed small and medium companies.
• Balancing Investment (up to AUD 2.5 million)
  – Diversified exposure through bonds, REITs, and listed securities.

Note: Direct residential property investment is prohibited.

Check Also: Australia 10 Year Parent Visa Process – Application

Eligibility Criteria:

• Investment of at least AUD 5 million in complying assets.
• Funds must be legally acquired and verifiable.
• Must be nominated by an Australian State/Territory government or Austrade.
• Genuine intention to reside in Australia while holding the visa.
• Must pass health and character checks.

Application Process of Australia Golden Visa 2025:

Step 1: Investment Planning
Engage an approved Australian fund manager and obtain financial advice.

Step 2: State/Territory Nomination
Apply for nomination from a State/Territory government or Austrade.

Step 3: Submit Expression of Interest (EOI)
Create an account in SkillSelect and lodge your EOI.

Step 4: Invitation to Apply
If nominated, you’ll receive an invitation to apply.

Step 5: Lodge Visa Application (Subclass 188 – Significant Investor Stream)
Submit application within 60 days, including identity, source of funds, and investment plan.

Step 6: Make Investment
Commit full AUD 5 million to complying investments.

Step 7: Visa Grant
Upon approval, visa is issued for 4 years and 3 months.

Pathway to Permanent Residency:

After 4 years on the provisional visa, you may apply for Subclass 888 Significant Investor Visa (PR), if you:

• Maintained the AUD 5 million investment throughout the visa period.
• Met minimum residency requirement (40 days/year or 180 days/year by spouse).
• Complied with visa conditions.

Citizenship Pathway:

Once granted PR, you may apply for Australian citizenship after:

• Living in Australia for at least 4 years (including 1 year as a permanent resident).
• Meeting residence, language, and character requirements.

Fees & Processing Times:

• Visa Application Charge: From AUD 9,450 (main applicant, excl. family)
• Additional Costs: State nomination fees, legal and financial advice, fund management fees.
• Processing Time: Typically 12–24 months depending on complexity and nomination.

Benefits:

1. Residency for the Entire Family

The visa covers the principal applicant, their spouse or partner, and dependent children, all of whom are entitled to live, study, and work in Australia.

2. No Age or English Proficiency Requirements

Unlike many skilled or employment-based visas, the Golden Visa does not impose age limits or mandatory English language tests.

3. Pathway to Permanent Residency and Citizenship

After maintaining the required investment and meeting residency rules for about four years, applicants may apply for permanent residency (subclass 888) and, eventually, Australian citizenship.

4. Access to Healthcare and Education

Permanent residents gain access to Australia’s Medicare healthcare system, and children may attend public schools at domestic rates. University fees for dependants are often reduced, with eligibility for government-backed student loans.

5. Global Mobility and Freedom

Visa holders can travel freely to and from Australia. Permanent residents receive a five-year travel facility, renewable based on residence or strong ties to Australia.

6. Attractive Tax Benefits

Temporary residents may benefit from tax exclusions on foreign income and capital gains from foreign property, providing advantages for wealth structuring.

7. Premium Lifestyle in a Stable Country

Australia consistently ranks among the top countries globally for safety, healthcare, education quality, and quality of life. It also boasts decades of economic stability and growth.

Important Considerations:

• The Australian Government does not guarantee investment returns.
• Investment performance may vary – seek professional financial advice.
• Visa places and program rules may change annually.

Conclusion:

Australia’s Golden Visa remains a leading investment immigration option for high-net-worth individuals. With its AUD 5 million investment threshold, flexible residency requirements, and direct pathway to permanent residency and citizenship, it offers one of the most attractive global residency-by-investment programs.

For official details and updates, visit the Department of Home Affairs.

Frequently Asked Questions: