How to Open a Business as a Foreigner in Australia – Guide for Ahmedabad & Gujarat Entrepreneurs

Australia is one of the most attractive destinations for foreign entrepreneurs. If you are planning to start a business in Australia from Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, or anywhere in Gujarat, understanding the process is crucial. Many aspiring business owners often ask: “Can a foreigner register a company in Australia?” or “How do I get a business licence as a non-resident?”

At Mahi Visa Services, we specialize in helping Indian entrepreneurs navigate the legal and administrative steps to set up a business in Australia smoothly. In this guide, we will cover Australia business setup for non-residents, company registration procedures, licence requirements, costs, local challenges, and expert tips for Gujarat-based business owners.

Understanding Business Setup for Foreigners in Australia

Overview of Business Options

Foreign entrepreneurs have several options for setting up a business in Australia. The main business structures include:

• Pty Ltd (Proprietary Limited Company): Ideal for non-residents because it limits liability and allows multiple shareholders.
• Sole Trader: Simple structure, but personal liability applies.
• Partnership: Shared responsibilities with other partners.
• Branch Office: Allows foreign companies to operate in Australia without forming a new legal entity.

For entrepreneurs from Ahmedabad or Gandhinagar, Pty Ltd is often the preferred choice due to liability protection and investor confidence.

Internal Link: Learn more about visa options that support business setup on our Temporary Graduate Visa page.

Key Requirements for Foreign Entrepreneurs

Before registering a business in Australia, non-residents must meet certain requirements:

1. Nominee Director: Non-residents may appoint an Australian resident as a nominee director.
2. Tax Registration: Apply for an Australian Business Number (ABN) and register for GST if annual turnover exceeds AUD 75,000.
3. Business Licences and Permits: Industry-specific licences are mandatory.
4. Legal Compliance: Adhere to Australian company incorporation rules and local council regulations.

At Mahi Visa Services, we guide Gujarat entrepreneurs through all these requirements, ensuring full compliance and minimal delays.

Step-by-Step Guide to Register a Business in Australia as a Foreigner

Australian Company Incorporation Rules

The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) regulates company registration. Foreign applicants must:

• Submit identification documents (passport, proof of address).
• Choose a unique company name.
• Determine shareholder structure.
• Appoint directors (including nominee directors if non-resident).

Example: Entrepreneurs from Ahmedabad often choose a Pty Ltd company to benefit from limited liability and ease of raising capital.

Registering a Business Overseas

Non-residents can register their company online through ASIC or via a professional agent. Required steps include:

• Completing the application form and paying the registration fee.
• Providing certified copies of identification documents.
• Submitting shareholder and director details.

Cost Tip: Registration fees for a standard Pty Ltd company start from AUD 512.

Setting Up Pty Ltd as a Non-Resident

Benefits of Pty Ltd for foreign entrepreneurs include:

• Limited liability for shareholders.
• Easier access to Australian business banking and credit.
• Credibility for investors and clients.

Checklist for Ahmedabad/Gandhinagar applicants:

• Ensure nominee director is an Australian resident.
• Check company name availability through ASIC.
• Prepare and certify all identification documents locally.

Internal Link: For guidance on post-study work and business opportunities, explore our Employer Sponsored Visa services.

Obtaining a Foreigner Business Licence in Australia

Certain businesses require licences from local councils or federal authorities. Steps include:

1. Identifying the correct licence type based on your industry.
2. Submitting licence applications with certified documents.
3. Paying licence and permit fees.

Tip: Entrepreneurs from Gujarat may need to coordinate with Australian consulates for document attestation.

Costs and Fees Overview

The main costs for setting up a business in Australia as a foreigner include:

• ASIC Registration Fees: AUD 512–512 for Pty Ltd companies.
• Business Licence Fees: AUD 50–500 depending on industry and state.
• Professional Service Fees: AUD 500–1,500 for agents handling registration and compliance.
• Additional Costs: Legal or accounting support, ABN registration, GST setup.

For Ahmedabad-based entrepreneurs, the total cost typically ranges between AUD 1,500–3,000, depending on the structure and services used.

Local Scenarios: Entrepreneurs from Gujarat

Challenges for Ahmedabad/Gandhinagar Applicants

Starting a business in Australia as a foreigner comes with unique challenges:

• Document Verification: Indian documents must be attested for Australian authorities.
• Banking Compliance: Opening business accounts may require proof of Australian address or nominee directors.
• Time Zone Differences: Coordination with Australian officials can take longer due to time zones.

Nearby Areas Guidance

We also provide guidance to entrepreneurs from surrounding Ahmedabad areas:

• Satellite, Maninagar, Ghatlodia, Paldi, Vastrapur, Ellisbridge, SG Highway, Chandkheda – assistance with document attestation, embassy coordination, and online company registration.

For visa-linked business opportunities, check our Study in Australia page.

Expert Tips & Checklist for Smooth Business Registration

To avoid delays:

1. Pre-checklist: Verify company name, nominee director details, and ABN registration.
2. Avoid Common Mistakes: Missing nominee director information or unverified documents can delay processing.
3. Stay Updated: Follow the latest Australian company incorporation rules.
4. Professional Support: Engage an experienced agent like Mahi Visa Services to review applications before submission.

Warning: Incomplete applications can delay registration by several weeks.

When to Call a Professional in Ahmedabad

Certain situations require professional intervention:

• Complex business structures, joint ventures, or franchise registration.
• Assistance with nominee director requirements.
• Guidance on licences, permits, and ongoing compliance.

Mahi Visa Services offers full-service support for Gujarat entrepreneurs to ensure a smooth business setup in Australia.

Schedule your consultation today via our contact page or call +91 76240 50022.

Why Choose Mahi Visa Services in Gujarat

Choosing Mahi Visa Services ensures:

• Expert guidance for foreign entrepreneur business Australia.
• Local support for Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar clients.
• Complete assistance with company registration, licences, and compliance.
• Real-time updates on 2026 incorporation rules and regulations.

Explore additional opportunities via our Employer Sponsored Visa page.

Maintenance & Compliance Tips After Registration

Once your company is registered, maintaining compliance is crucial:

• Submit annual statements and renew ASIC registration.
• Ensure GST and income tax compliance.
• Regularly review business licences and permits.
• Keep corporate records organized for audits and legal purposes.

CTA Section

Are you ready to open your business in Australia as a foreigner from Ahmedabad or Gandhinagar?

Mahi Visa Services provides expert guidance in company registration, business licences, and ongoing compliance. Contact us today:

• Email: study.ahm@mahivisaservices.com
• Phone: +91 76240 50022
• Contact Page: Reach out now

Start your Australian business journey with confidence and professional support!

FAQs

1. Can an Indian citizen open a business in Australia without residency?
Yes, foreign entrepreneurs can register a company and obtain licences, often with a nominee director.

2. How long does it take to register a company as a foreigner in Australia?
Typically 1–3 weeks for Pty Ltd registration, but licence approvals may take longer.

3. What are the main costs for foreign company registration in Australia?
ASIC registration fees, licence costs, and professional service charges, usually AUD 1,500–3,000.

4. Can Mahi Visa Services help with both business registration and visas?
Yes, we provide end-to-end guidance including visas linked to business setup.

5. Do entrepreneurs from Ahmedabad/Gandhinagar need local attestation?
Yes, Indian documents must be properly attested for Australian authorities.