Overview of FIRB for Foreign Buyers in 2026
The Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) reviews applications from overseas buyers who wish to purchase residential property in Australia. For 2026, the rules set out the application process, including a mandatory fee and a review timeline, and identify common reasons why applications are refused.
Application Fee and Approval Process
Applicants must submit a formal application to FIRB and pay the prescribed application fee. The fee amount is set by the government each year and applies to all foreign buyers. After submission, FIRB assesses the application against national interest criteria; most applications are approved, but the process can take several weeks. If additional information is required, FIRB will request it, and the timeline may extend.
Common Rejection Reasons
FIRB rejects applications when the proposed purchase does not meet the national interest test. Common reasons include buying an established dwelling without meeting the new-development exemption, failing to provide sufficient evidence of the buyer’s status or financial capacity, or attempting to buy in a way that would increase housing supply constraints. Also, applications may be refused if the buyer does not intend to live in the property (for temporary residents) or if the purchase would breach condition limits such as the number of properties a foreign person may hold.