Australia has always been a preferred destination for High Net Worth Individuals (HNWIs) who are looking for a stable economy, high standard of living and excellent education system. Australia’s Golden Visa program, officially known as the Significant Investor Visa (SIV) – subclass 188C , provides such investors with a path to obtain residency in Australia. In 2025, the program continues with some changes and new possibilities.
What is Australia Golden Visa?
Australia’s Golden Visa is designed for wealthy individuals who are willing to make significant investments in the Australian economy. Under this visa, applicants have to invest at least AUD 5 million (approximately ₹27 crores) in specified Australian investment options and maintain business or investment activity in Australia. This visa provides investors with an opportunity to obtain temporary residency and eventually permanent residency status.
Please note: According to some latest reports, the Australian Government has closed the Business Innovation and Investment Program (BIIP), under which this visa fell, for new applicants from July 2024. However, applications already submitted are still being considered. Therefore, the possibility of new applications for this visa in 2025 is uncertain. The information given in this article is based on currently available information and may change in the future. Applicants are advised to check the official website of the Australian Government for the latest information.
Who can apply for Golden Visa?
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible for the Golden Visa in 2025:
- Compliant investments: AUD 5 million must be invested in specified Australian investment options. This investment is divided into the following categories:
- Venture Capital and Growth Private Equity Funds (minimum 10% – AUD 500,000): Investing in startups and small private companies.
- Approved Managed Funds (Minimum 30% – AUD 1.5 million): Funds that invest in growth companies listed on the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX).
- Balance investments (remaining 60% – AUD 3 million): Managed funds that invest in listed equities, corporate bonds or commercial property. Investment in residential real estate is restricted, and there are limits on cash holdings in the investment portfolio.
- Health and Character Assessment: Applicants must meet health and character requirements.
- Genuine commitment to maintain business or investment activity in Australia: Applicants must show a genuine desire to maintain their business or investment activity in Australia.
Benefits of Golden Visa
The Australia Golden Visa offers investors several key benefits:
- No upper age limit: Unlike many other Australian visa categories, there is no upper age limit for this visa.
- No English Language Proficiency Requirement: Applicants are not required to prove proficiency in the English language.
- No Points-Based Assessment: There is no points-based assessment system for this visa.
- Inclusion of Family: Primary applicants can include their spouse and dependent children in their application.
- Access to a stable and prosperous economy: Australia offers a stable political and economic environment.
- High-quality healthcare and education systems: Visa holders get access to Australia’s excellent healthcare and education facilities.
- Excellent quality of life and safety: Australia is considered one of the best places to live in the world.
Application Process and Validity Period
The application process for an Australia Golden Visa usually involves the following steps:
- Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit your interest via the SkillSelect system.
- Invitation to Apply: If your EOI is selected, you will receive an official invitation.
- Formal Application: Submit your completed application along with all required documents.
- Decision: Evaluation and determination of visa.
Visa processing times can vary, but currently around 90% of applications are processed within 25 months.
Golden visa holders can apply for permanent residence (subclass 888) after maintaining their investments during their temporary visa period and meeting the requirement of staying in Australia for at least 40 days per year.
Benefits of permanent residence
The permanent residence route offers the following benefits:
- Permission to remain in Australia indefinitely.
- The right to work and study.
- Access to healthcare benefits.
- Travel privileges.
- Possible path to citizenship after meeting additional requirements.
Latest Updates and Changes in 2025
Australia’s Golden Visa program is constantly evolving to better align with national economic priorities. Recent developments may include (check the official website for the latest information):
- Possible changes in investment categories.
- Efforts to streamline application processes.
- Changes aimed at reducing processing times.
conclusion
The Australia Golden Visa in 2025 remains a premium route for high net worth individuals seeking to obtain residency in Australia through investment. The minimum investment threshold of AUD 5 million ensures that applicants are serious investors who can make a significant contribution to the country’s economy.
For those considering this route, it is essential to consult qualified migration experts to understand the complex requirements and maximize your chances of success. It is also important to check the latest information on the official government website, especially given the current status of the program.