Home Loans for Visa Holders and Temporary Residents
You can buy a home in Australia on a temporary visa, but the rules have tightened, and the property you choose matters as much as the loan. This page explains what’s allowed right now, what lenders look for, and how we help visa holders get from first question to settlement.
Rules as at October 2026. Government settings change; we check them on every application.
The foreign buyer ban on established homes
From 1 April 2025 to 30 June 2029, foreign persons, including temporary residents, cannot buy an established (existing) home in Australia, except in limited cases. The ban was originally due to end on 31 March 2027 and was extended in the 2026–27 Budget.
What temporary residents can still buy, with Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) approval:
- a new or near-new home
- an off-the-plan apartment or house
- vacant residential land to build on
Permanent residents and New Zealand citizens are not affected by the ban. Spouses of Australian citizens, permanent residents or NZ citizens buying jointly may also be exempt.
FIRB approval and extra costs
Temporary residents need FIRB approval before signing a contract, or the contract must be subject to approval. FIRB charges an application fee that rises with the price of the property. Most states also charge a foreign purchaser surcharge on top of normal stamp duty. Together these can add tens of thousands of dollars, so factor them into your budget from day one.
What lenders look for
Policies vary widely between lenders, which is why a broker helps here. Common factors:
- Your visa type and how long it has left to run
- Your deposit. Many lenders want a larger deposit from temporary residents than from citizens
- Your income. Australian income from a stable job counts best; overseas income is often discounted
- Your employer. Sponsored visas like the 482 are well understood by many lenders
- Your partner’s status. If your partner is an Australian citizen or permanent resident, more options open up
We work with a panel of lenders and know which ones accept which visa subclasses.
Visa Holder Home Loan: frequently asked questions
Can I buy an existing house on a 482 visa?
Not during the ban (to 30 June 2029), unless an exception applies. You can buy a new home, off-the-plan property or land with FIRB approval.
What if I get permanent residency after buying?
Once you’re a permanent resident, the ban and FIRB rules for temporary residents no longer apply to future purchases. Speak to us about refinancing to better terms.
Can my Australian partner buy without me?
Yes, and that may avoid FIRB entirely, but think carefully about ownership. Get legal advice.
Related finance options
Not quite the right fit? These pages cover options that often suit people in a similar position:
Prefer to talk it through? Book a free consultation or call +61 405 142 021.