Australia

Australia offers exceptional quality of life, a stable economy, and strong legal framework, though immigration pathways now focus on skilled migration rather than investment. The Significant Investor Visa (SIV) program was abolished in January 2024, with the government citing money laundering risks and insufficient economic benefits.

Australia operates a progressive tax system with a top marginal rate of 45% on income over AUD 190K , plus a 2% Medicare levy. Capital gains are taxed as income (with a 50% discount for assets held over 12 months). There is no inheritance tax or wealth tax. Australia maintains an extensive network of tax treaties.

The SIV program had required AUD 5.0M in compliant investments and attracted over 2,300 applicants, predominantly from China. Refunds for pending applicants were processed from September 2024. The opposition Liberal Party has indicated plans to revive a similar program if elected.

Currently, Australia offers the Global Talent Visa for highly skilled individuals in priority sectors, but no investment-based residency pathway exists. New residents may benefit from foreign income exemptions during a transitional period.

The country remains attractive for its stable economy, high quality of life, and world-class education system, though immigration options are more limited than in the past.