Investor Visa Costs in Australia: What You Need to Know

Navigating the path to an investor visa in Australia requires a significant financial commitment, and understanding the costs involved is crucial for prospective investors. The Investor Visa (subclass 891) and the Significant Investor Visa (subclass 188) are two popular options, each with its own financial requirements. This article delves into the specific costs associated with each visa type, providing a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.

Investor Visa (subclass 891)
For the Investor Visa (subclass 891), applicants are required to demonstrate a significant investment in Australia. Specifically, you must have held a designated investment of at least AUD 1.5 million in Australia for a minimum of four years. The costs involved include:

1. Investment Amount: AUD 1.5 million in a designated investment.
2. Visa Application Fee: Approximately AUD 4,240 for the main applicant. Additional fees may apply for family members.
3. Legal and Advisory Fees: Depending on your situation, legal fees can range from AUD 5,000 to AUD 15,000.
4. Other Costs: Medical examinations, police checks, and biometric services, which can amount to an additional AUD 1,000 to AUD 3,000.

Significant Investor Visa (subclass 188)
The Significant Investor Visa (subclass 188) requires a more substantial financial investment, tailored for those with higher net worth. The main requirements include:

1. Investment Amount: You must invest at least AUD 5 million into complying investments in Australia.
2. Visa Application Fee: Approximately AUD 8,770 for the main applicant. Additional fees may apply for family members.
3. Legal and Advisory Fees: Legal fees for the Significant Investor Visa can range from AUD 10,000 to AUD 30,000.
4. Other Costs: Similar to the Investor Visa, expect to pay for medical examinations, police checks, and biometric services, totaling an additional AUD 1,000 to AUD 3,000.

Additional Considerations

1. Ongoing Costs: Both visas require the maintenance of your investment, and there are ongoing costs associated with managing your investments in Australia.
2. Currency Fluctuations: The amounts are in Australian dollars, so fluctuations in currency exchange rates may impact the total cost if you are converting from another currency.
3. Investment Strategy: Choosing the right investment strategy and ensuring compliance with Australian regulations may involve additional financial planning and advisory services.

Conclusion
Securing an investor visa in Australia is a significant financial commitment with varying costs depending on the type of visa. For the Investor Visa (subclass 891), the total initial cost is generally lower but involves a long-term investment requirement. In contrast, the Significant Investor Visa (subclass 188) demands a higher initial investment but offers more flexibility in terms of investment options. It’s essential to factor in all associated costs, including legal fees and ongoing investment management, to ensure a successful application process.