🌏 Foreign ETF Exemption for 482 Visa Holders
🌏 Foreign ETF Exemption for 482 Visa Holders
If you’re on a 482 visa and investing in overseas Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), you might wonder —Do I need to pay tax in Australia, or is it exempt?
The answer depends on your tax residency status — not your visa type.
You don’t pay Australian tax on your ETF income if:You’re a non-resident or eligible temporary resident for tax purposes.The ETF is foreign-based — not listed or managed in Australia.The income (dividends or capital gains) is foreign-sourced.
You don’t include the income in your Australian tax return.No tax is payable in Australia on that foreign ETF income.📝 Tip: Keep records of where your ETF is managed and proof of your non-residency status.🇦🇺 When It’s TaxableIf you live, work, and stay in Australia long-term — even on a 482 visa —the ATO is likely to treat you as an Australian resident for tax purposes.That means your foreign ETF income is taxable.
You must declare all foreign income and capital gains.Income should be converted to AUD at ATO exchange rates.No deductions are available for ETF investments.
Many think: “I’m on a temporary visa, so I’m not a resident.”But the ATO decides based on:Where you live and work,How long you stay, andWhether you have a home or family in Australia.If you meet residency conditions, all foreign income becomes taxable.
🎁 Example 1: You live overseas but invest in a U.S. ETF — it’s foreign income, likely exempt.💼 Example 2: You live and work full-time in Australia — your U.S. ETF earnings are taxable.📅 Example 3: You move between countries — the ATO checks where your main home base is.
🌍 Foreign ETF income is exempt only if you’re non-resident or eligible temporary resident.💰 Residents must declare all worldwide income.📑 482 visa alone doesn’t decide your tax — your residency and income source do.📝 Always confirm your ATO residency status before lodging your tax return.
