Non Permanent Resident Visa Home Loan: Can I get a Home Loan without PR?

Many banks and lenders will simply refuse to lend to applicants that do not hold a permanent resident visa or Australian citizenship. For many lenders it is simply too risky to lend to an applicant without permanent residency as most are worried about what happens if the temporary resident visa is not extended.

Is a home loan in Australia possible if I do not hold permanent residency PR?

Yes! Whilst many lenders will not lend to you there are a good number that will at normal standard interest rates. Thats right, you will not be paying more because you do not hold permanent residency. The key to getting approved is simply applying with the right bank and that is where MAP can help. We specialise in home loans for visa holders and know which lenders approve non-PR applicants. With access to 31+ lenders, we know exactly which ones are open to non-PR borrowers.

How much deposit will I require?

As a general rule, applicants for home loans that do not have a permanent resident visa will require a 20% deposit. There is an exception to this if the applicant without permanent residency is buying with an Australian Citizen or permanent resident. In this scenario a home loan with only a 5% deposit is possible. For a full breakdown by visa type, see our guide on how much deposit overseas buyers need.

What about FIRB and property restrictions for temporary residents?

If you are a temporary resident (not yet holding PR or citizenship), you need to be aware of the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) rules. From April 2025 to March 2027, the Australian Government has banned temporary residents from purchasing established dwellings. This means temporary residents can only purchase new dwellings during this period.

This is actually an opportunity rather than a barrier. New-build properties often come with stamp duty concessions and depreciation benefits that established homes do not. Many of our 482 visa and other temporary resident clients are taking advantage of this to buy brand new homes and apartments.

Does it matter what sort of temporary resident visa I am on?

It does to some lenders. Some lenders will only lend to you over 80% LVR if you are on a spouse visa subclass 309 or 820. Other lenders don’t mind what sort of visa you are on providing you are buying with an Australian Citizen or permanent resident. Holders of a 482 visa also have strong borrowing options with the right lender.

What if I am close to getting permanent residency?

If you are close to obtaining PR, it is worth knowing what opens up. Since October 2025, Australian Citizens and Permanent Residents have access to the 5% Deposit Scheme with no income caps and no place caps. This means once your PR comes through, you could potentially buy with just a 5% deposit and avoid lenders mortgage insurance entirely. If you are waiting on a PR decision, we can help you plan ahead so you are ready to move quickly once it is granted. Find out more about permanent resident home loans.

Is the First Home Owners Grant (‘FHOG’) available if I do not hold permanent residency?

Only if you are buying with an Australian citizen or permanent resident – and otherwise qualify. If neither purchaser holds citizenship or permanent residency then the FHOG is not available. However, sometimes it is possible to get these benefits post settlement if your permanent residency visa was to come through within 1 year of purchase.

More information:

More information on home loans without permanent residency can be found here. You can also read about Australian expat home loans if you are an Australian citizen living abroad.