Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore | Homejourney
Foreigners can buy private condominiums and apartments in Singapore without prior approval, but landed properties require Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU) consent from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA). HDB flats and most Executive Condominiums (ECs) are off-limits.[1][3][4]
This cluster article dives deep into these restrictions, connecting to our pillar guide on Foreigner vs PR vs Citizen: Singapore Property Buying Guide. At Homejourney, we prioritize your safety with verified data, helping you navigate 2026 rules confidently.[3]
Properties Foreigners Can Buy Without Approval
Private condominiums and apartments form the core of foreigner-friendly options. These include high-rise units in strata-titled developments, typically six stories or more, available as freehold or 99-year leasehold.[1][2][4]
Strata landed houses within approved condominium developments also qualify—no SLA nod needed. Examples include upscale projects like those in Ardmore Park or Paterson Hill, where foreigners snap up units starting from S$2.5 million.[3]
Short-term leasehold estates in landed properties (up to 7 years, renewable) are another niche, ideal for temporary stays without long-term commitment.[4][5]
- Key Tip: Use Homejourney's property search to filter foreigner-eligible condos by location and price.
- Insider Insight: Districts 9 and 10 (Orchard, River Valley) see high foreign demand due to proximity to MRT stations like Orchard Boulevard (5-min walk).[3]
Landed Properties: Approval Required
Foreigners may purchase landed homes—bungalows, semi-detached, terrace houses—but only with LDAU approval under the Residential Property Act.[1][2][4]
Approval criteria include at least five years as a Singapore Permanent Resident (PR) and exceptional economic contributions, like high employment income taxed in Singapore. Sentosa Cove offers fast-track approval for landed options, popular among ultra-high-net-worth foreigners.[3][4][5]
Even if approved, conditions apply: exclusive residential use for owner and family (no renting), 5-year minimum holding period from legal completion or Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP), and no subdivision.[2][3]
Real Example: A tech executive with 7 years PR status secured approval for a Sentosa Cove semi-detached at S$8 million, but sold after 5 years per rules.[2]
Properties Foreigners Cannot Buy
HDB flats are reserved for Singapore Citizens and PRs—foreigners are fully restricted.[1][3][5]
ECs follow suit: no access until after 5-year Minimum Occupation Period (MOP), and only if paired with a PR or Citizen. Resale HDBs require a Singapore spouse or PR co-buyer.[5]
Commercial, industrial, and agricultural land are also off-limits for residential foreigners.[3]
Foreigner PR Citizen Comparison: Ownership and Costs
Understanding foreigner PR citizen comparison is crucial for property buying comparison. Here's a breakdown:
| Buyer Status | HDB Flats | ECs (Post-MOP) | Private Condos | Landed (Non-Sentosa) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Singapore Citizen | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| PR | Resale (conditions) | Yes (post-MOP) | Yes | Approval needed |
| Foreigner | No | No | Yes | Approval (rare) |
Source: SLA, HDB guidelines.[1][4][5] For ABSD different status, foreigners pay flat 60% ABSD on all buys (2026 rate), vs 0% for Citizens' first property, 5-30% tiered for PRs.[2][3][6]
Exemptions: Foreigners married to Citizens (first buy remission if sold within 6 months of second), or FTA nationals (US, Iceland etc.—Citizen-like rates).[5]
ABSD and Financial Implications in 2026
ABSD different status hits foreigners hardest at 60% flat rate, e.g., S$3 million condo incurs S$1.8 million ABSD plus 1-5% Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD).[2][6]
Loan-to-Value (LTV) caps at 75% for foreigners, with Total Debt Servicing Ratio (TDSR) at 55%. No CPF use—full cash or bank loans.[1][2]
Actionable Step: Use Homejourney's ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator and check bank rates for financing.[6]
- Hidden Cost: S$200-500/month condo maintenance fees.
- Tax: Annual property tax on Annual Value, higher for non-owner-occupied.[2]
Step-by-Step Buying Process for Foreigners
Link to our detailed guide: Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners. Key steps:
- Verify Eligibility: Confirm property type via projects directory on Homejourney.
- Calculate Costs: ABSD + BSD + agent fees (1-2%).
- Exercise Option to Purchase (OTP): Pay 1-5% option fee.
- Apply for Approval (Landed Only): Submit to LDAU, 4-8 weeks.
- Secure Financing: See Financing Options for Foreign Buyers.
- Legal Completion: 8-12 weeks post-OTP, pay balance.[2][6]
Timeline: 3-6 months total. Documents: Passport, PR status (if applicable), income proof.[3]
Common Mistakes and Insider Tips
Mistake 1: Assuming all condos are equal—check freehold vs leasehold; freehold holds value better (e.g., Leedon Green freehold).[3]
Mistake 2: Ignoring 5-year MOP on approved landed—plan long-term residency.[2]
Insider Tip: Visit sites via Homejourney verified listings; avoid unapproved landed to prevent rejection. Post-purchase, budget for aircon services in humid Singapore.[2]
Disclaimer: This is general info; consult lawyers/IRAS for personalized advice. Rates current as of 2026 per IRAS/SLA.[1][4]
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can foreigners buy HDB flats?
No, HDB flats are restricted to Citizens and PRs.[1][3]
What's the ABSD for foreigners in 2026?
Flat 60% on all residential purchases.[2][6]
Can foreigners buy Sentosa Cove landed properties?
Yes, with fast-track SLA approval.[3][5]
Freehold condos for foreigners?
Yes, no restrictions.[4][5]
Can foreigners rent out purchased condos?
Yes, after complying with URA minimum tenancy period (6 months for HDB-owned, varies).[2]
Ready to explore types of properties foreigners can buy in Singapore? Start safely with Homejourney's verified tools. Search properties, calculate ABSD, and compare options today. Link back to our pillar: Foreigner PR Citizen Comparison.
