Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore | Homejourney
Foreigners can buy private condominiums, apartments, strata-landed houses in approved developments, and landed properties on Sentosa Cove in Singapore, subject to Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) at 60% and other regulations.
These restrictions under the Residential Property Act (RPA) prioritize housing for Singapore citizens and PRs while allowing foreigners access to select private properties. This cluster article dives into eligible property types for non-PR foreigners, building on our pillar guide to Buying Property in Singapore as a Foreigner. Homejourney verifies all market data to ensure you make safe, informed decisions.
What Foreigners Cannot Buy: Key Restrictions
Under the RPA, foreigners without PR status face strict limits. HDB flats are off-limits entirely, even resale units, as they are reserved for citizens and eligible PRs.
Landed properties like bungalows, semi-detached houses, and terrace houses are prohibited nationwide, except on Sentosa Cove with approval. Vacant residential land, non-approved strata-landed (e.g., cluster houses), and shophouses for residential use also require rare Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU) permission from the Singapore Land Authority (SLA), typically granted only for exceptional economic contributions.
Recent 2026 updates classify mixed-use commercial-residential properties under RPA, mandating government approval for foreigners to curb speculation.
Eligible Property Types for Foreign Buyers in 2026
Non-PR foreigners can purchase these without special approval:
- Private Condominiums and Apartments: Both freehold and 99-year leasehold, new launches or resale. Most popular choice, e.g., The Sail @ Marina Bay or Parc Olympia in District 5.
- Strata-Landed Houses in Approved Condo Developments: Townhouses or cluster homes within Planning Act-approved projects, like those in Upper Thomson.
- Landed Properties on Sentosa Cove: Unique exception allowing bungalows, good-class bungalows (GCBs), and cluster houses. Prices start at S$5 million; insider tip: check berths for yacht owners at Ocean Drive.
- Short-Term Leasehold Landed (≤7 Years): Rare, for temporary use.
Privatized Executive Condominiums (ECs) over 10 years old are also eligible. Use Homejourney's Projects Directory ">projects directory to filter foreigner-friendly options with verified details.
Special Case: Sentosa Cove for Luxury Buyers
Sentosa Cove stands out as the only area where foreigners can buy landed homes routinely. Options include waterfront villas (S$10-50 million) and clusters (S$4-8 million). Approval is straightforward via SLA, but expect 60% ABSD. Pro tip: Properties near One°15 Marina Club offer premium lifestyle; walking distance (5 mins) from Sentosa Cove MRT (under construction 2026).
Financial Implications: ABSD and Costs Breakdown
ABSD for foreigners remains 60% in 2026 on purchase price or valuation (whichever higher), payable within 14 days of Option to Purchase (OTP). Example: S$2 million condo incurs S$1.2 million ABSD + Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD) ~S$64,600.
| Property Value | ABSD (60%) | BSD (Est.) | Total Duties |
|---|---|---|---|
| S$1.5M | S$900,000 | S$45,000 | S$945,000 |
| S$2M | S$1.2M | S$64,600 | S$1.26M |
| S$5M (Sentosa) | S$3M | S$200,000 | S$3.2M |
Joint purchase with Singapore citizen spouse reduces ABSD (citizen rate on their share). Calculate precisely with Homejourney's ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026 | Homejourney ">ABSD calculator. Loans capped at 60% LTV for foreigners; check Bank Rates ">bank rates via Homejourney.
Indian Buyers Guide: NRI Tips for Singapore Property
Indian citizens and NRIs can buy the same eligible types: condos and Sentosa Cove landed. Key considerations: Remit funds via authorized channels per RBI rules; provide Indian tax returns (ITR) for mortgages. Popular picks: Jadescape (freehold, S$2.2M avg) or Indian community hubs like Serangoon Gardens condos.
Insider tip: NRIs often favor 99-year leaseholds for value; avoid overpaying in hype launches. See our Indian Citizens Guide to Buying Property in Singapore 2026 ">Indian Citizens Guide. Homejourney prioritizes your safety with verified listings.
Step-by-Step Buying Process for Eligible Properties
- Search Verified Listings: Use Homejourney's Property Search ">property search for foreigner-eligible condos.
- Secure OTP: Pay 1-5% deposit; 14-21 days to exercise.
- Pay Stamp Duties: ABSD/BSD within 14 days post-OTP.
- Apply for Loan: Submit passport, work pass, payslips; expect 4-6 weeks. Details in Financing Options for Foreign Buyers in Singapore | Homejourney ">financing guide.
- Complete Purchase: 8-12 weeks; lawyer handles SLA title transfer.
Full process in Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney ">Step-by-Step Guide.
Pros, Cons, and Decision Framework
| Property Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Condo/Apartment | Accessible, amenities, liquidity | High ABSD, strata fees |
| Sentosa Cove Landed | Privacy, prestige, yacht access | S$5M+ entry, maintenance |
Evaluate: Budget post-ABSD? Lifestyle needs? Rental yield (condos ~3-4%)? Consult professionals; Homejourney connects you safely.
Common Mistakes and Red Flags
- Misjudging ABSD: Always calculate first.
- Buying ineligible types: Verify RPA compliance via SLA.
- Ignoring mixed-use rules: Seek approval for shophouses.
- Red flag: Sellers pressuring quick OTP without lawyer review.
Post-purchase, budget for maintenance like Aircon Services ">aircon servicing.
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can Indian citizens buy property in Singapore?
Yes, condos and Sentosa Cove; see NRI guide above.
What is ABSD for foreigners in 2026?
60% on residential purchases.
Can foreigners buy landed property?
Only Sentosa Cove or with rare LDAU approval.
Are HDB flats allowed for foreigners?
No, reserved for citizens/PRs.
How to finance as a foreigner?
60% LTV max; docs include passport, payslips. Link to Bank Rates ">rates.
Disclaimer: This is general info; consult lawyers/banks. Homejourney ensures transparency for trusted transactions. Start your safe search on Homejourney today—link back to our pillar for the full guide.
