Many temporary visa holders in Australia don’t realise this:

Your visa can directly increase the price you pay for property — sometimes by tens of thousands of dollars.

This isn’t about market trends.

It’s about legal structure.

Are You Paying 8–9% More?

If you are on a temporary visa — including 485 or student visas — the cost structure is different.

Depending on the state:

• NSW applies a 9% foreign purchaser surcharge
• Victoria applies an 8% surcharge
• FIRB approval is required
• Additional land tax or vacancy charges may apply in certain circumstances

Stamp duty is calculated on a progressive scale.

Once the surcharge is added, temporary residents often pay significantly more than permanent residents for the same property.

Exact figures vary by state and property value.

But the structural difference is real.

‍

Why Temporary Visa Holders Are Limited to New Builds

ATO data shows that most foreign-owned residential properties are newly built dwellings.

This is not simply preference.

It reflects regulation.

Under FIRB rules, non-residents and temporary visa holders are generally prohibited from purchasing established dwellings, except in limited circumstances.

In practical terms, this means many temporary residents are restricted to:

• Off-the-plan purchases
• Newly constructed dwellings
• Certain house-and-land packages

Your visa determines your options.

‍

The Real Question: Should You Buy Before PR?

This is where timing matters.

Many clients ask:

• If I’m on a 485 visa, am I paying more?
• Should I wait until I secure PR?
• Could buying too early cost me more long term?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer.

But one thing is clear:

Permanent residency changes your legal position.

It affects:

• Stamp duty treatment
• Purchasing flexibility
• Access to established dwellings
• Long-term planning stability

PR is not just about living in Australia.

It alters your regulatory framework.

‍

Our Role

We are not property advisers.

We are migration lawyers.

Our focus is:

• Visa stability
• Compliance
• Long-term residency strategy

In Australia, legal position comes before investment timing.

‍

If You’re Unsure Where You Stand

If you are currently on a temporary visa and considering:

• Skilled migration
• State nomination
• Employer sponsorship
• Long-term planning after study

and you’re unsure how this affects your property decisions,

DM us and we’ll guide you through the next step.

📅 Book a Consultation: https://www.riverwoodmigration.com/consultation-info

‍💼 Speak with a Migration Lawyer: enquiry@riverwoodmigration.com‍

💬 Chat with Johnny: https://linktr.ee/johnny_lawyer

‍

Disclaimer

This article is based on publicly available information and general legal principles. It does not constitute legal or financial advice. Individual circumstances vary. Please seek advice from a registered migration agent or lawyer before making decisions.