Obtaining Australian citizenship by making an investment in the country has become an increasingly popular path in recent years. With global political and economic uncertainty, more high net worth individuals are seeking the safety and stability provided by an Australian passport. However, the total costs can vary greatly depending on the specific investment visa program chosen. This article analyzes the main options such as the Business Innovation and Investment Program, Global Talent Visa, Investor Retirement Visa, and Significant Investor Visa. We compare application criteria, investment thresholds, processing times, benefits and privileges, as well as total expenses to gain permanent residency and citizenship for an entire family.
Business Innovation and Investment Program requires medium investment but has fast processing
The Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP) allows applicants to obtain permanent residency by owning and managing an eligible Australian business. For the Business Innovation stream, the minimum investment is only AUD 800,000. In return, investors can apply for permanent residency within 3-4 years. When you add consulting fees, due diligence, business set-up costs over several years, the total expenses for a family of 4 could be AUD 1.5 million.
Global Talent Visa has no investment but high salaries and skill criteria
The Global Talent Visa has no mandatory investment, but does require meeting a high skilled occupation list, internationally recognized record of exceptional achievement, and minimum salary between AUD 153,600 and AUD 216,000 depending on occupation. Applicants can obtain permanent residency in just 3-4 years. With application and agency fees, total cost for a family of 4 may be AUD 250,000.
Investor Retirement Visa requires AUD 750,000 investment
The Investor Retirement Visa mandates a passive investment of AUD 750,000 into State/Territory bonds. It offers a slower route to permanent residency in 4-5 years. Total expenses for a family of 4 come to approximately AUD 1 million factoring the investment principle, application and professional fees over several years.
Significant Investor Visa fastest option but investment of AUD 5 million
The Significant Investor Visa (SIV) entails the highest investment threshold at a minimum AUD 5 million. However, it provides the fastest route to permanent residency and citizenship within 2-3 years in most cases. Given the substantial capital commitment, total costs approach AUD 7.5 million for a family of 4.
In summary, Australia offers a range of investment visa pathways for high net worth individuals seeking the privileges and security of Australian citizenship. Total costs over several years can vary from as low as AUD 250,000 under the skills-focused Global Talent program. Up to nearly AUD 7.5 million for the top-tier Significant Investor Visa. Choosing the optimal program requires assessing one’s personal circumstances, finances, and priorities.