Can Foreigners Invest in Singapore Property in 2025? Direct Answer
Foreigners can invest in Singapore property in 2025, with the most accessible option being private condominiums and apartments. However, there are significant regulatory restrictions, especially on landed homes and HDB flats, and foreign buyers face a high Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) of 60% on residential purchases[1][2][3][4].
Homejourney ensures all property listings and investment advice are verified, up-to-date, and tailored for a safe, trusted experience for foreign investors in Singapore.
Connecting to the Pillar: Singapore Property Investment Fundamentals
This cluster article builds on our main Singapore Property Investment Pillar by focusing on the unique regulatory landscape, financial considerations, and tactical investment tips for foreigners. For a complete overview of market trends and best practices, see our main pillar guide Property Investment for Foreigners in Singapore: 2025 Guide by Homejourney .
Key Regulations for Foreign Property Investment in Singapore (2025)
What Properties Can Foreigners Buy?
- Private Condominiums & Apartments: Freely available for foreign ownership. These are the most common entry points[1][2][3].
- Executive Condominiums (ECs): Only ECs that have been privatized (over 10 years old) are available to foreigners[1][2].
- Landed Properties: Generally restricted. Foreigners may only purchase landed homes (e.g., Good Class Bungalows, terrace houses) with special approval from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA), typically only for those making substantial economic contributions[1][2][3].
- Sentosa Cove: Exceptionally, foreigners can apply to buy landed homes in this exclusive enclave, subject to approval[2].
- Commercial & Industrial Properties: No restrictions; foreigners may purchase shophouses, offices, and industrial assets[2].
Properties Foreigners Cannot Buy
- HDB Flats: Not permitted, as these are public housing reserved for Singaporeans and Permanent Residents[1][2].
- New Executive Condominiums (ECs): Only available after 10 years, when they are fully privatized[1][2].
Taxation: ABSD and Other Costs
- Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD): Applies to all property purchases, up to 6% of the purchase price as of 2025[1].
- Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD): 60% for all residential property purchases by foreigners (except for U.S., Swiss, Icelandic, Norwegian, and Liechtenstein citizens, who benefit from Free Trade Agreements and lower rates)[1][2][3][4][5].
- Legal and Administrative Fees: Budget for legal conveyancing, due diligence, and other transaction costs[1].
- Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratios: Foreigners are typically eligible for up to 50% LTV for residential property financing, and up to 60% for non-residential properties[7]. For current rates, see Bank Rates .
Singapore Property Market 2025: Key Stats & Trends
- Private residential prices increased by 2.8% year-on-year in Q3 2025, driven by continued demand from affluent international buyersStraits Times Housing News .
- Rental yields for prime condominiums remain robust at 3-3.5%, with the Core Central Region (CCR) and city-fringe locations most in demand by expatriatesHow to Assess Rental Yields and Resale Value in 2026 | Homejourney Trusted Guide .
- Transaction volume for foreign buyers has moderated post-ABSD hike, but high-net-worth individuals continue to value Singapore’s stability, transparency, and legal protectionsEdgeProp Property News .
Homejourney’s data-driven approach and transparent project directory Projects Directory empower investors with the latest verified market information.
Actionable Investment Tips for Foreigners in 2025
1. Prioritise Non-Landed Private Properties
Private condominiums offer the most straightforward entry for foreign investors, with no need for government approval and a wide range of choices across Singapore’s prime and emerging districts. Use Homejourney’s Property Search to filter for verified, safe listings.
2. Budget for Taxes and Financing
- Carefully factor in the 60% ABSD and up to 6% BSD when calculating your total investment outlay. For financing options, compare verified mortgage rates at Bank Rates and Mortgage Rates .
- Foreigners typically face stricter LTV ratios and may need to demonstrate higher income or provide larger down payments[7].
3. Understand the Approval Process for Landed Homes
If you are seeking a landed property, prepare a strong case for SLA approval, focusing on your economic contributions (e.g., business activities, tax paid, or investments over S$50 million)[2][3]. Note that approval is rare and not guaranteed.
4. Evaluate Rental Yield and Exit Strategy
- Focus on projects with strong rental demand and proven resale liquidity. For deeper analysis, see How to Assess Rental Yields and Resale Value in 2026 | Homejourney Trusted Guide .
- Review historical rental yields and resale trends in Homejourney’s Projects section.
5. Ensure Safe and Hassle-Free Property Management
- Engage only verified service providers for property maintenance. For reliable air-conditioning servicing, use Aircon Services .
- Homejourney’s trusted network prioritizes user safety and transparent service quality at every step.
Decision Framework: Should You Invest as a Foreigner?
- Can you meet the total upfront cost, including ABSD, BSD, and legal fees?
- Is your preferred property type (condo, EC, commercial) available to foreign buyers?
- Are your financing options viable under current LTV and TDSR limits?
- Does your investment align with your yield, capital appreciation, and exit goals?
- Are all service providers, listings, and agents verified for safety and compliance via Homejourney?
Frequently Asked Questions: Foreign Property Investment in Singapore (2025)
What is the ABSD rate for foreigners in 2025?
The ABSD for foreigners buying residential property in Singapore is 60% in 2025. There are exceptions for U.S., Swiss, Icelandic, Norwegian, and Liechtenstein citizens, who may qualify for lower rates under Free Trade Agreements[1][2][3][4][5].
Can foreigners buy HDB flats or new Executive Condominiums?
No, foreigners are not allowed to buy HDB flats or new ECs. Only privatized ECs (over 10 years old) are open for foreign purchase[1][2].
Are there restrictions on buying landed property?
Yes. Foreigners need government approval to buy landed homes, which is rarely granted except for Sentosa Cove or for those who can demonstrate substantial economic contributions[2][3].
What are the main upfront costs for foreign buyers?
Expect to pay the property price, 60% ABSD, up to 6% BSD, legal fees, and any mortgage-related costs. Use Homejourney’s Bank Rates for financing calculations.
How can Homejourney help ensure a safe investment?
Homejourney verifies all property listings, service providers, and agents, prioritizes user feedback, and offers transparent market data for confident, secure decision-making.
Take the Next Step with Homejourney
For the most comprehensive, up-to-date guidance on property investment in Singapore, explore our main pillar content Property Investment for Foreigners in Singapore: 2025 Guide by Homejourney . Homejourney is committed to your safety, transparency, and investment success every step of the way.
References
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for general reference only. For accurate and official information, please visit HDB's official website or consult professional advice from lawyers, real estate agents, bankers, and other relevant professional consultants.
Homejourney is not liable for any damages, losses, or consequences that may result from the use of this information. We are simply sharing information to the best of our knowledge, but we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability of the information contained herein.