Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore | Homejourney
Foreigners can freely buy private condominiums, apartments, and properties in Sentosa Cove without approval, but landed properties outside require rare Singapore Land Authority (SLA) consent, and HDB flats or Executive Condominiums (ECs) are off-limits.[1][2][5]
At Homejourney, we prioritize your safety and trust in navigating Singapore's strict property rules. This cluster article breaks down options for foreign buyers, including Taiwanese investors, linking to our pillar guide on Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney ">Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners. Use our verified Property Search to explore listings securely.
Properties Foreigners Can Buy Without Approval
Private condominiums and apartments form the core of foreign purchases in Singapore. These include freehold and 99-year leasehold units in high-rise developments across districts like Orchard, Marina Bay, and Tanjong Pagar.[1][2][3]
No prior SLA approval is needed, making them accessible for quick transactions. For example, a Taiwanese investor might target a 2-bedroom condo in District 10, like Ardmore Park, with prices around S$2.5-3.5 million in 2026.[1]
Sentosa Cove stands out as a unique exception: foreigners can buy landed properties here without restrictions, including bungalows and good-class bungalows (GCBs). This waterfront enclave offers luxury villas starting at S$5 million, ideal for ROC Singapore property seekers.[2]
- Condominiums/Apartments: Free purchase; resale or new launches.
- Sentosa Cove Landed: Unrestricted; high-end, family-friendly.
- Strata Landed (some): Cluster houses in approved estates.
Landed Properties: Approval Required Outside Sentosa
Landed properties like bungalows, semi-detached houses, and terrace homes outside Sentosa Cove are restricted under the Residential Property Act.[1][2][5]
To qualify for SLA approval, foreigners typically need 5+ years as Permanent Residents (PRs) and proof of exceptional economic contribution, such as high employment income taxed in Singapore. Approval is rare and case-by-case.[5]
If granted, conditions include: exclusive residential use (no renting), 5-year minimum holding period from legal completion or TOP/CSC, and no subdivision.[1][2]
Insider tip: Even approved owners face scrutiny; Homejourney verifies compliant listings via Projects Directory to protect your investment.
Properties Foreigners Cannot Buy
HDB flats are reserved solely for Singapore Citizens and PRs, enforcing affordable housing for locals.[1][2]
ECs are inaccessible to solo foreigners; joint purchases with PRs are possible only post-5-year MOP.[2]
Vacant residential land, worker dorms, and commercial properties used residentially are prohibited.[1]
| Property Type | Foreigner Access | Key Restriction |
|---|---|---|
| HDB Flats | No | Citizens/PRs only |
| ECs | Limited joint post-MOP | No solo buys |
| Landed (non-Sentosa) | SLA approval only | Rare, 5-yr hold |
| Condos/Apts | Yes | Unrestricted |
Financial Implications: ABSD and Costs for Foreign Buyers
Foreigners face 60% Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) on the purchase price or valuation (whichever higher), payable in cash within 14 days of Option to Purchase—no CPF use.[1][2][3]
On a S$2 million condo, that's S$1.2 million ABSD, plus Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD) up to 6%. Married to a Singapore Citizen? First property may be exempt; refunds possible on switches if sold within 6 months.[2]
Other costs: property tax (concessionary if owner-occupied), condo maintenance fees (S$300-600/month), and legal fees. Check Bank Rates for financing; foreigners get 70% LTV max, subject to TDSR.[1]
For Taiwan investors, see our Taiwan Nationals Singapore Property Investment Analysis 2026 | Homejourney ">Taiwan Nationals Singapore Property Investment Analysis.
Actionable Steps for Foreign Buyers
- Verify Eligibility: Confirm non-restricted types via SLA guidelines.
- Budget with ABSD: Use Homejourney's ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026 | Homejourney ">ABSD Calculator.
- Search Safely: Explore verified condos on Property Search .
- Finance Check: Review options in Financing Options for Foreign Buyers in Singapore 2026 | Homejourney ">Financing for Foreign Buyers.
- Engage Pros: Consult lawyers; maintain properties with Aircon Services .
Avoid mistakes like ignoring 5-year holds on approved landed—penalties include fines. Homejourney's transparency ensures safe decisions.[1][2]
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can foreigners buy landed properties in Singapore?
Yes in Sentosa Cove unrestricted; elsewhere, rare SLA approval needed with 5-year PR and economic contribution.[2][5]
What is the ABSD for foreigners buying condos in 2026?
60% flat rate on price/valuation, cash only, no exemptions unless married to citizen.[1][3]
Can Taiwanese buy property in Singapore?
Yes, same rules: condos freely, check Taiwan Nationals Singapore Property Investment Analysis 2026 | Homejourney ">Taiwan buyer analysis for insights.[2]
Are HDB flats available to foreigners?
No, strictly for citizens/PRs.[1]
How does Homejourney help foreign buyers?
Verified listings, ABSD tools, and safe search prioritize your trust and security.
Ready to explore types of properties foreigners can buy in Singapore? Start with Homejourney's Property Search for trusted options. This connects to our pillar on property buying processes—link back for the full guide. Disclaimer: Not legal/financial advice; consult professionals. Rules per SLA/URA 2026.[5]
