Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore: 2026 Rules
Foreigners in Singapore can primarily buy private condominiums and apartments without approval, while landed properties require special Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU) clearance from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA). This cluster article details eligible property types, restrictions, and ABSD impacts, linking back to our pillar guide on Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners for the full journey.
Homejourney prioritizes your safety by verifying market data and regulations, helping you navigate confidently. All foreigners face a flat 60% Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) on residential purchases in 2026, making informed choices essential.
Private Condominiums and Apartments: Freely Accessible
Private condos and apartments form the core of what foreigners can buy without prior approval under the Residential Property Act.[5] This includes freehold and 99-year leasehold units, both new launches and resales. For example, popular developments like The Sail @ Marina Bay or upcoming projects in District 15 offer strata-titled units ideal for foreigners.
These properties suit investors and residents alike, with amenities like pools and gyms. Foreigners enjoy full ownership rights, including renting out after purchase (subject to MCST rules). Use Homejourney's property search to filter foreigner-eligible condos by location and price.
Insider Tip: Opt for condos near MRT stations like Orchard or Tanjong Pagar for easy access—walking times under 5 minutes boost rental yields up to 4% annually in prime areas.
Landed Properties: Approval Required with Strict Conditions
Foreigners cannot freely buy landed properties like bungalows, semi-detached houses, or terrace homes.[1][3] Approval from SLA's LDAU is case-by-case, typically needing 5+ years as a Permanent Resident and exceptional economic contributions, such as high employment income taxable in Singapore.[5]
Even if approved, conditions apply: exclusive residential use for you and family (no renting), 5-year minimum holding period from legal completion or TOP, and no subdivision.[2][3] Sentosa Cove offers a fast-track for landed homes like cluster houses, but still requires approval.
Rare successes often involve executives in tech or finance relocating with families. Check Homejourney's projects directory for Sentosa Cove insights.
Executive Condominiums (ECs): Limited Access Post-MOP
Foreigners cannot buy new ECs, but resale ECs after the 5-year Minimum Occupancy Period (MOP) are possible if paired with a Singapore PR.[4] Privatised ECs over 10 years old function like condos, fully accessible.
For instance, Punggol ECs like Treelodge@Punggol now qualify post-MOP. One foreigner + one PR buyer combo works, but both must meet eligibility. ABSD still applies at 60%.[3]
What Foreigners Cannot Buy: Key Restrictions
- HDB Flats: Strictly for Citizens and PRs—no exceptions for foreigners.[3]
- New ECs: Reserved for first-time Singaporean buyers.
- Non-Sentosa Landed: No approval without LDAU greenlight.
- Commercial/Industrial: Separate rules apply, not for residential foreigners.
Short-term leases (up to 7 years) on landed properties are allowed without approval, suitable for temporary stays.[5]
ABSD and Stamp Duties: Critical Financial Hurdles
All foreigners pay 60% ABSD on residential purchases in 2026, regardless of first or subsequent buys—e.g., S$1.2M on a S$2M condo.[1][2] Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD) adds 1-6% progressively. Pay within 14 days of Option to Purchase (OTP) exercise via IRAS e-stamping.
Exemptions: Foreigners married to Citizens (first property, refundable on sale within 6 months), or FTA nationals like US citizens (0% first, 12-15% later).[4] Taiwanese face the full 60% Taiwanese ABSD rate, with no special remission.
Use Homejourney's ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator for precise calculations. Link to bank rates for LTV up to 75%, but TDSR limits apply.
Step-by-Step Buying Process for Eligible Properties
- Search & View: Use Homejourney property search for verified listings.
- OTP Exercise: Pay 5% deposit, trigger stamp duties.
- Lawyer Engagement: Handle conveyancing; 8-12 weeks to completion.
- Financing: Secure loans—see Financing Options for Foreign Buyers.
- Completion: Pay balance, register at SLA.
Post-purchase: Pay MCST fees (S$300-600/month) and property tax (concessionary if owner-occupied).[2]
Decision Framework: Pros, Cons, and Tips
| Property Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Condos | No approval, amenities, rentable | 60% ABSD, strata fees |
| Landed (Approved) | Privacy, space | Hard approval, no rent, 5-yr hold |
| ECs (Post-MOP) | Spacious, subsidized origins | PR pairing needed |
Practical Tips: Factor 65-70% total upfront costs (ABSD + BSD + deposit). Avoid overleveraging under TDSR. For maintenance, book via aircon services. Seek Homejourney advisors for personalized verification.
Disclaimer: This is general info; consult lawyers/IRAS for advice. Regulations per SLA/URA 2026.[5]
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming HDB access—leads to wasted viewings.
- Ignoring ABSD in budgets—shocks at OTP stage.
- Skipping lawyer review—misses title issues.
- Not checking MCST health—future fee hikes.
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can foreigners buy landed property in Singapore?
Yes, with LDAU approval—rare, needs PR status and economic contribution. Sentosa Cove easier.[1][5]
What is the ABSD rate for foreigners in 2026?
Flat 60% on purchase price/valuation.[1][2]
Can foreigners buy resale HDB flats?
No, only Citizens/PRs.[3]
Are freehold condos open to foreigners?
Yes, fully accessible like leasehold.[4]
How does ABSD affect Taiwanese buyers?
Full 60% rate applies—no FTA remission.[3]
Ready to explore? Start with Homejourney's safe, verified property search today. For full guidance, read our pillar on Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners.
