FIRB Application

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If you’re a foreign investor, temporary resident or non-citizen looking to buy property in Victoria or anywhere in Australia, you may need to obtain approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) before making a purchase.

Failing to get the required FIRB approval can result in significant penalties, including forced sale of the property, fines or other legal consequences. At Singh Property Transfers, we help guide buyers through the FIRB requirements to avoid costly mistakes and delays.

Who needs FIRB approval?

You may be considered a foreign person under Australian law if you fall into one of the following categories:

You are not an Australian citizen or not a permanent resident of Australia
You are a temporary visa holder (e.g. student visa, work visa)
You are a foreign corporation or a business in which foreign entities hold substantial ownership
You are purchasing via a trust structure where a foreign individual or corporation has a controlling interest
You are a non-resident buying property on behalf of someone overseas

‼️ If any of these apply to you, you must apply for and receive FIRB approval before signing an unconditional contract or settling on a residential property.

Who is Exempt from FIRB Approval?

You may not require FIRB approval if:

You are an Australian citizen, whether residing in Australia or overseas
You are a New Zealand citizen
You hold permanent residency in Australia
You are purchasing a property jointly with your spouse who is an Australian citizen, permanent resident or New Zealand citizen (as joint tenants not tenants in common)

Still unsure if you need FIRB? Reach out to us we’ll help you assess your eligibility.

What types of properties can foreigners buy?

Under FIRB rules, foreign buyers and temporary residents are generally:

Allowed to buy new dwellings or off the plan properties
Allowed to buy vacant land for development (with conditions)
Not allowed to purchase established dwellings for investment or rental purposes
Only allowed to buy one established dwelling to live in while residing in Australia (must sell when leaving)

Each application is assessed on a case by case basis and strict conditions may apply.

How to apply for FIRB Approval?

While Singh Property Transfers does not submit FIRB applications on your behalf, we provide guidance and support throughout the process.

You can apply directly through the FIRB website here https://firb.gov.au/applications

The application process involves:

Completing an online form
Paying the required government fee (based on property value)
Waiting for assessment and approval which can take up to 30 days or more

‼️ Do not sign a contract unconditionally or proceed to settlement without FIRB approval, unless your contract is subject to FIRB approval in writing

Singh Property Transfers is your trusted local conveyancer in Epping. We offer fixed, transparent pricing with no hidden fees, fast communication and expert guidance at every step. With modern, paperless processes and a client-first approach, we make property transfers simple, stress-free and efficient.