Australia’s Golden Visa program launched to attract high‑net‑worth individuals, investors, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talent—offers a pathway to permanent residency with minimal sponsorship requirements. As of June 2025, the streamlined process, expanded eligibility, and digital lodgement options make it easier than ever to secure long‑term residency in Australia.
What Is the Australia Golden Visa?
The Australia Golden Visa is a permanent residency stream designed for:
- High‑net‑worth investors
- Entrepreneurs & founders
- Exceptional talent & specialized professionals
- Outstanding graduates
On approval, Golden Visa holders and their families can live, work, study, and travel in Australia indefinitely—without employer sponsorship.
Key Benefits
- Secure PR Status: No need for employer or state nomination.
- Family Inclusion: Sponsor spouse/partner and dependent children.
- Business Freedom: 100% ownership of new or existing business ventures.
- Travel Flexibility: Multiple‑entry, no re‑entry restrictions within validity.
- Access to Services: Medicare, education, and social benefits on par with citizens.
Also Check: Australia Work Visa June 2025: Top High‑Demand Skill Shortage Jobs
Australia Golden Visa Eligibility Criteria
Australia updated its Golden Visa requirements in 2025, introducing five main streams. You must meet one of the following:
- Significant Investor (Subclass 188B)
- Invest at least AUD 5 million in approved managed funds for 4 years.
- Entrepreneur Stream (188E)
- Funding of AUD 500 000+ from a specified venture capital fund, angel investor, or state government.
- Active business operations in Australia.
- Exceptional Talent (188D)
- Internationally recognized leader in academia, research, sport, or the arts.
- Endorsement by relevant Australian body.
- Outstanding Graduate (188F)
- Recent Australian PhD graduate at Group A/B universities with GPA ≥ 3.5/4.0.
- Nomination by state/territory government.
- Global Business & Talent (188G)
- Minimum AUD 1 million business turnover and proven strategic benefit to Australia.
- Endorsement by the Department of Home Affairs.
Note: Each stream has specific sub‑criteria. Check the Home Affairs website for annex details.
Required Documents
| Document | Details |
|---|---|
| Passport copy | Valid for ≥ 12 months beyond lodgement |
| Expression of Interest (EOI) | Submitted via SkillSelect for streams requiring nomination |
| Proof of Investment/Funding | Bank statements, fund certificates, investor letters |
| Business Plan & Financial Model | For entrepreneur, business turnover & operational details |
| Endorsement Letters | From VC fund, state government, or industry body (if applicable) |
| Academic Transcripts & Awards | For outstanding graduate or exceptional talent streams |
| Health Examination Certificate | From approved panel physician |
| Police Clearance Certificates | From all countries lived ≥ 12 months in past 10 years |
| Proof of Funds | To cover initial living expenses (if required) |
| Digital Photos | Passport‑style, per DHA specifications |
Fees & Processing Times
| Item | Fee (AUD) | Processing Target* |
|---|---|---|
| Golden Visa Application (each stream) | 5,000 – 6,500 | 75% within 6 months |
| Significant Investor (188B) additional fee | 6,000 | |
| Entrepreneur & Business streams surcharge | 4,000 | |
| Health & Character Checks | Variable | 2–4 weeks |
| Total Estimate (Primary applicant) | ~11,500+ |
*Times vary by applicant country and completeness of application.
Step by Step Australia Golden Visa Application Process
- Choose Your Stream & Check Criteria
- Identify which 188 stream aligns with your profile and review detailed annex requirements.
- Prepare an Expression of Interest (EOI)
- For streams requiring EOI (188E, F, G), submit via SkillSelect.
- Await an Invitation to Apply (ITA)—valid for 60 days.
- Gather Supporting Documents
- Translate and notarize all non‑English documents.
- Assemble investment proofs, endorsements, business plans, and personal identity docs.
- Lodge Your Application Online
- Log into ImmiAccount, select your stream, upload documents, and pay the visa fee.
- Complete health declarations and character questions.
- Undergo Health & Character Checks
- Book a panel physician medical exam.
- Submit police clearances as requested by the Department.
- Respond to Requests for Information
- Monitor your ImmiAccount daily and provide any additional documentation within deadlines.
- Receive Visa Grant & Plan Arrival
- On approval, you’ll receive a visa grant letter with entry permission.
- Enter Australia within specified period (usually 12 months).
FAQs
Q: Can I switch streams after lodging?
A: No—you must meet your chosen stream’s criteria and lodge a fresh application if switching.
Q: Do I need to live in Australia?
A: Golden Visa holders have no residency requirement, but maintaining ties strengthens future citizenship claims.
Q: Can my family apply later?
A: Include spouse and dependent children in your primary application to avoid separate sponsor processes.
Conclusion
The Australia Golden Visa Process June 2025 opens new doors for global investors, entrepreneurs, and exceptional talent seeking permanent residency. By understanding the eligibility criteria, preparing comprehensive documentation, and following this step‑by‑step guide, you can navigate the lodgement process with confidence.