SweetGirl

can immigrants but a house when they get to oz or do they have to wait til they are permanent residents?And if so do they have to buy new-builds?

BullcreekBob

If you are not a PR you can only buy Real Estate with the approval of the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB).

It is normal for the FIRB to approve the purchase of a *new* house to non PR's. It is very unusual for the FIRB to approve the purchase of a property that has been previously owned. This include properties owned by a building company.

SweetGirl

hope you dont think im thick but can you explain a bit simpler,as im not sure what you mean.if houses are put for sale on real.estaate.com..au , if we get to oz can we look into buying one thanks gail

Centurion

Basically if you are not holding a PR visa then no you cannot buy one without approval of a government body. They will usually grant approval if its a brand new property. Any contract to buy you would have to put a clause in saying "subject to FIRB approval".

If you hold a PR visa then you can buy - even if you intend to return to the UK and move finally later on. There are no restrictions, providing you hold a resident visa and not just a tourist visa.

Hope that helps set it better in your mind.

Buzzy--Bee

You can normally buy a secondhand property on temporary visa subject to FIRB approval if it is to be your primary residence and if you promise to sell it when you leave Oz.



Buzzy