The short version
With no tax treaty, Hong Kong buyers should plan around the full Australian tax bill: the state surcharge, the FIRB application fee, non-resident income tax on rent (30% from the first dollar), and 15% foreign resident capital gains withholding when you sell. Ask a tax adviser how Hong Kong treats the income before you buy.
Are Hong Kong residents foreign persons in Australia?
Yes. HKSAR passport holders and Hong Kong residents are foreign persons unless they hold Australian citizenship or a permanent visa.
Tax treaty
No. Treasury’s list of income tax treaties does not include Hong Kong, so there is no treaty relief on Australian rental income or gains.
Home loans and HKD income
Broker lists put the Hong Kong dollar in the top tier of currencies accepted by Australian lenders that take foreign income. How much you can borrow depends on the lender and on your residency status — see the home loans page.
Lender policy changes. See our home loans guide for how lenders generally treat overseas borrowers.
Visas
Home Affairs lists a Hong Kong stream of the Permanent Residence (Skilled Regional) visa 191, alongside the usual Skills in Demand (482), 189/190, student and partner routes. On a temporary visa you are still a foreign person.
Next steps
- Check the application fee and your state’s surcharge.
- Read the FIRB approval guide.
- Look at new homes foreign buyers can purchase.
Need a loan from Hong Kong?
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need FIRB approval to buy property in Australia from Hong Kong?
Yes, unless you are an Australian citizen or permanent visa holder (or a New Zealand citizen with a Special Category visa, or buying as a joint tenant with such a spouse). Foreign persons need approval to buy a new home or vacant land, and cannot buy established homes until 30 June 2029.
Does Australia have a tax treaty with Hong Kong?
No. Treasury’s list of income tax treaties does not include Hong Kong, so there is no treaty relief on Australian rental income or gains.
Sources
- Treasury — Income tax treaties
- Home Affairs — Visa listing
- Treasury — Guidance Note 2: Key concepts (v5, 12 December 2025)
- ATO — Banning foreign purchases of established dwellings
- ATO — Tax rates for foreign residents
- Home Loan Experts — Foreign income home loans (broker page)
- Odin Mortgage — Australian expat home loans (broker page)
Checked 5 October 2026.
firbapproval.com.au is an independent guide. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by or connected to the Foreign Investment Review Board, the Australian Treasury or the Australian Taxation Office. We do not lodge or process applications. Applications are made to the ATO. General information only, not legal, tax, migration or financial advice.