Australia’s Golden Visa program, which was introduced to draw in high-net-worth individuals, investors, entrepreneurs, and outstanding talent, provides a route to permanent residency with little need for sponsorship. As of June 2025, obtaining long-term residency in Australia is now simpler than ever thanks to the simplified procedure, increased eligibility, and digital lodgement alternatives.
What Is the Australia Golden Visa?
The Golden Visa for Australia is a pathway to permanent residency intended for:
- High‑net‑worth investors
- Entrepreneurs & founders
- Exceptional talent & specialized professionals
- Outstanding graduates
After being granted a Golden Visa, individuals and their families are free to travel, live, work, and study in Australia for as long as they choose without the need for employer sponsorship.
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Benefits of Visa:
- Fast-Track Pathway to Australian Permanent Residency Through Investment: The Golden Visa (Significant Investor Visa—Subclass 188C) allows wealthy individuals to gain PR by investing AUD $5 million in approved assets.
- No Age Limit or English Language Requirement for Eligibility: Unlike other visa programs, the Golden Visa process does not impose age restrictions or mandatory English proficiency.
- Opportunity to Include Spouse and Children Under One Application: The visa allows family members to be included, giving them access to the same benefits, including education and healthcare.
- Access to World-Class Healthcare Through Medicare After PR: Permanent residents can enjoy Australia’s publicly funded healthcare system, including free hospital and doctor services.
- Eligibility to Apply for Australian Citizenship After 4 Years: Once granted PR, you can apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency and character requirements.
- Freedom to Live, Work, and Study Anywhere in Australia: There are no geographical restrictions, so you can choose to reside in any state or territory, including regional or major cities.
- Invest in a Stable Economy With Strong Legal and Political Systems: Australia offers a secure, low-risk investment climate backed by transparent regulations and strong governance.
- Enjoy Tax Benefits and Asset Protection Through Structured Investments: Investors may benefit from tax planning opportunities and secure legal structures when investing in managed funds.
- Access to High-Quality Education for Children With Domestic Tuition Fees: Your children can attend Australian public or private schools and universities at local resident rates.
- Multiple Investment Options Available for Portfolio Diversification: Choose from venture capital, emerging companies, property funds, and other qualifying managed investments.
- No Direct Business Management Involvement Required: Unlike other business visas, you don’t need to manage a business yourself—passive investment is sufficient.
- Five-Year Temporary Visa With Option to Extend and Transition to PR: The initial visa is valid for 5 years, with options to renew or transition directly to permanent residency (Subclass 888).
- Enjoy a High Standard of Living in a Safe, Clean, and Multicultural Society: Australia is consistently ranked among the top countries for quality of life, healthcare, education, and safety.
- Access to Free Public Services and Infrastructure: Golden Visa holders who gain PR can enjoy public benefits like transportation, libraries, parks, and other community services.
- Travel Freely In and Out of Australia With Fewer Restrictions: The visa provides multiple re-entry rights and allows holders to travel freely while maintaining residency status.
Eligibility Criteria:
In 2025, Australia introduced five primary streams to its Golden Visa criteria. One of the following conditions must be met:
- Significant Investor (Subclass 188B):
- Make four years’ worth of investments in authorized managed funds totaling at least AUD $5 million.
- Entrepreneur Stream (188E):
- AUD 500,000 or more in funding from a state government, angel investor, or venture capital fund.
- operations of active businesses in Australia.
- Outstanding Ability (188D):
- globally renowned leader in the arts, sports, research, or academia.
- endorsement by the appropriate Australian organization.
- Outstanding Graduate (188F):
- Recent PhD graduate from an Australian university in Group A/B with a GPA of at least 3.5/4.0.
- nomination by the administration of the state or territory.
- International Talent & Business (188G):
- a business turnover of at least AUD $1 million and a demonstrated strategic advantage for Australia.
- Department of Home Affairs endorsement.
Required Documents:
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport copy | Valid for ≥ 12 months beyond lodgement |
| Expression of Interest (EOI) | Submitted via SkillSelect for streams requiring nomination |
| Proof of Investment/Funding | Bank statements, fund certificates, investor letters |
| Business Plan & Financial Model | For entrepreneur, business turnover & operational details |
| Endorsement Letters | From VC fund, state government, or industry body (if applicable) |
| Academic Transcripts & Awards | For outstanding graduate or exceptional talent streams |
| Health Examination Certificate | From approved panel physician |
| Police Clearance Certificates | From all countries lived ≥ 12 months in past 10 years |
| Proof of Funds | To cover initial living expenses (if required) |
| Digital Photos | Passport‑style, per DHA specifications |
Fees & Processing Times:
| Item | Fee (AUD) | Processing Target* |
|---|---|---|
| Golden Visa Application (each stream) | 5,000 – 6,500 | 75% within 6 months |
| Significant Investor (188B) additional fee | 6,000 | |
| Entrepreneur & Business streams surcharge | 4,000 | |
| Health & Character Checks | Variable | 2–4 weeks |
| Total Estimate (Primary applicant) | ~11,500+ |
Step by Step Application Process of Australia Golden Visa Process for PR:
- Choose Your Stream & Check Criteria:
- Determine which of the 188 streams best fits your profile and go over the specific requirements in the annex.
- Prepare an Expression of Interest (EOI):
- Use SkillSelect to submit for streams (188E, F, and G) that need EOI.
- Wait for a 60-day invitation to apply (ITA).
- Gather Supporting Documents:
- Notarize and translate all papers that are not in English.
- Compile company ideas, personal identity documents, endorsements, and investment evidence.
- Lodge Your Application Online:
- Choose your stream, upload supporting documentation, pay the visa cost, and log into ImmiAccount.
- Undergo Health & Character Checks:
- Schedule a medical exam with a panel physician.
- Provide police clearances in response to the Department’s requests.
- Respond to Requests for Information:
- Keep an eye on your ImmiAccount every day and submit any extra paperwork by the due date.
- Receive Visa Grant & Plan Arrival:
- You will receive a letter of visa grant with entrance permission upon approval.
- Enter Australia within the allotted time, which is typically 12 months.
Frequently A sked Questions:
What is the Australia Golden Visa?
It’s an investment-based visa that allows wealthy individuals to gain permanent residency in Australia.
How much investment is required for the Golden Visa?
A minimum investment of AUD $2.5 million under the Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) is required.
Can family members be included in the Golden Visa application?
Yes, you can include your spouse and dependent children in the same application.
