Australia used to have a citizenship by investment program that granted citizenship to investors who made substantial investments in the country. However, this program was discontinued in 2015. Currently, there is no direct pathway to obtain Australian citizenship solely through investment.
Previous Australia Investment Citizenship Program
Up until 2015, Australia had a citizenship by investment program called the Significant Investor Visa (SIV). This visa required a minimum investment of AU$5 million into complying investments in Australia. It allowed visa holders a pathway to permanent residence and citizenship after holding the visa for 4 years.
Discontinuation of Direct Investment Citizenship
In 2015, the Australian government abolished the SIV program. This removed the only existing pathway that enabled foreign investors to obtain citizenship directly through investment. The government felt the program no longer aligned with Australia’s national interest.
Current Options for Citizenship by Investment
Currently, the main options for citizenship by investment in Australia are the Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) and Global Talent Visas. The BIIP offers a pathway to permanent residence for investors who start or purchase an Australian business. Global Talent Visas are for highly skilled individuals in key industries.
Investment Required for Each Current Option
The BIIP requires an investment of at least AU$200,000 for 4 years. Applicants must own at least one third of the business and be involved in its day-to-day management. The Global Talent Visa has no minimum investment but requires international recognition and experience in one of the target sectors.
In summary, Australia no longer has a direct citizenship by investment program. The only options currently available require substantial business investment and involvement or exceptional talent in specialized fields. There is no quick or easy way to buy Australian citizenship purely through financial investment.