NSW Foreign Buyer Stamp Duty
Calculate stamp duty and the foreign buyer surcharge for property purchases in New South Wales. Updated for 2025-26.
NSW Foreign Buyer Surcharge Breakdown
Example at $750,000 — how the surcharge adds to standard duty.
Standard Duty
$28,162
Foreign Surcharge
+$67,500
9% of $750,000
Total Foreign Duty
$95,662
Who Is Considered a Foreign Buyer?
Non-Australian citizens who are not permanent residents (including temporary visa holders).
Foreign corporations — companies where foreign persons hold a substantial interest (typically 20%+ for individuals or 40%+ aggregate).
Trustees of foreign trusts — where a foreign person holds a beneficial interest.
FIRB Approval Required
Foreign buyers generally need approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) before purchasing residential property in Australia. FIRB application fees apply separately from stamp duty.
Federal Temporary Ban on Foreign Purchases
The federal government has imposed a temporary ban on foreign purchases of established residential dwellings. New developments and vacant land for building may still be permitted. Check current FIRB guidelines for the latest status.
NSW Foreign Buyer Duty at Common Prices
| Price | Standard Duty | Surcharge | Total Foreign Duty |
|---|---|---|---|
| $500K | $16,912 | +$45,000 | $61,912 |
| $750K | $28,162 | +$67,500 | $95,662 |
| $1M | $39,412 | +$90,000 | $129,412 |
| $1.5M | $64,512 | +$135,000 | $199,512 |
| $2M | $92,012 | +$180,000 | $272,012 |
NSW Foreign Buyer FAQ
What is the foreign buyer stamp duty surcharge in NSW?
Foreign buyers in NSW pay an additional 9% surcharge on the dutiable value of residential property, on top of standard stamp duty. The surcharge is calculated on the full dutiable value.
Do NZ citizens pay the foreign buyer surcharge in NSW?
New Zealand citizens should check with New South Wales Revenue whether they qualify for any exemptions from the foreign buyer surcharge.
Do I need FIRB approval to buy property in NSW?
Generally, yes. Foreign buyers must obtain approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) before purchasing residential property in Australia, including in NSW. FIRB application fees apply separately from stamp duty.
Can foreign buyers get first home buyer concessions in NSW?
Foreign buyers are typically not eligible for first home buyer stamp duty concessions or the First Home Owner Grant in NSW. The surcharge applies regardless of whether it is your first property purchase.
More NSW Stamp Duty Pages
NSW Calculator
View full calculator →NSW First Home Buyer
View FHB concessions →Compare All States
Compare duty side by side →Foreign Buyer Guide
Read the full guide →Duty on $750,000
Foreign duty: $95,662
Duty on $1,000,000
Foreign duty: $129,412
Duty on $1,500,000
Foreign duty: $199,512