Overseas Buyers
The Australian Government welcomes foreign investment. It has helped build Australia's economy and will continue to enhance the wellbeing of Australians by supporting economic growth and prosperity.
Frequently Asked Questions
I am a foreign person. Can I invest in Australia?
Yes, but you may require approval depending on what you wish to buy.
Please refer to the Foreign Investment Policy for further information.
How long does it normally take to get a decision?
Under the Foreign Acquisitions and Takeover Act 1975, the Treasurer has 30 days to consider your application and make a decision. There is no time limit for applications made under the Policy only. However, the Government also aims to consider these proposals within 30 days, where possible.
For residential real estate applications, if you have not received a response after 15 working days, you may contact us at: firbenquiries@treasury.gov.au.
Can I lodge an application before finding a property?
No, approval is required for a specific property you wish to purchase. You cannot apply for a general or 'in principle' approval.
Can I apply for several properties at once?
Yes, but you must submit a separate application for each property you wish to purchase.
If I buy a property, can I rent it out?
Established (or second-hand) dwellings bought by temporary residents cannot be rented However, new dwellings, dwellings built on vacant land and dwellings built as part of a redevelopment, can be rented.
Do I still need approval if my spouse is an Australian permanent resident and I am a foreign non-resident?
Yes, you still require approval even if your spouse is an Australian permanent resident.
Exemptions
It is possible that you may not need to submit an application for approval to acquire real estate in Australia. Please click here to determine if you meet any of these exemptions.
Visit their website for more details: http://www.firb.gov.au/content/real_estate/residential.asp
Frequently Asked Questions
I am a foreign person. Can I invest in Australia?
Yes, but you may require approval depending on what you wish to buy.
Please refer to the Foreign Investment Policy for further information.
How long does it normally take to get a decision?
Under the Foreign Acquisitions and Takeover Act 1975, the Treasurer has 30 days to consider your application and make a decision. There is no time limit for applications made under the Policy only. However, the Government also aims to consider these proposals within 30 days, where possible.
For residential real estate applications, if you have not received a response after 15 working days, you may contact us at: firbenquiries@treasury.gov.au.
Can I lodge an application before finding a property?
No, approval is required for a specific property you wish to purchase. You cannot apply for a general or 'in principle' approval.
Can I apply for several properties at once?
Yes, but you must submit a separate application for each property you wish to purchase.
If I buy a property, can I rent it out?
Established (or second-hand) dwellings bought by temporary residents cannot be rented However, new dwellings, dwellings built on vacant land and dwellings built as part of a redevelopment, can be rented.
Do I still need approval if my spouse is an Australian permanent resident and I am a foreign non-resident?
Yes, you still require approval even if your spouse is an Australian permanent resident.
Exemptions
It is possible that you may not need to submit an application for approval to acquire real estate in Australia. Please click here to determine if you meet any of these exemptions.
Visit their website for more details: http://www.firb.gov.au/content/real_estate/residential.asp