Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore: 2026 Rules
Foreigners can freely buy private condominiums and apartments in Singapore without approval, but landed properties require rare Singapore Land Authority (SLA) clearance, except in Sentosa Cove.[1][2][4]
This cluster focuses on foreigner property eligibility, linking to our pillar guide on Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney ">Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners. Homejourney verifies data from official sources like SLA and URA to ensure safe, trusted decisions in Singapore's tight market.[1][4]
Private Condominiums and Apartments: Freely Accessible
Private condos and apartments form the core of foreigner purchases, covering freehold and 99-year leasehold units in high-rises (typically 6+ stories).[1][2][3][4]
No prior approval needed under the Residential Property Act. Examples include popular districts like District 10 (Bukit Timah) or District 15 (East Coast), where resale condos average S$2-3 million.[1][2]
Insider tip: Check URA's Master Plan via Projects ">Homejourney Projects Directory for upcoming launches near MRT stations like Orchard or Tanjong Pagar—walking distances under 10 minutes boost value.[1]
Key Advantages for Foreign Buyers
- Flexibility: Buy new launches or resales; rent out after minimum periods per URA rules.
- Financing: Up to 75% Loan-to-Value (LTV) for foreigners, subject to TDSR.[3]
- No Residency Required: Open to all non-citizens without PR status.[1][4]
ABSD hits 60% on purchase price or valuation (whichever higher) for 2026—e.g., S$1.2 million on a S$2 million condo, payable within 14 days of Option to Purchase.[1][2]
Landed Properties: Strict Restrictions and Exceptions
Landed homes—bungalows, semi-detached, terrace houses—are largely off-limits without SLA approval, needing 5+ years PR status and exceptional economic contribution (e.g., high-taxable income or business investments).[1][3][4]
Approval is case-by-case, rarely granted; conditions include exclusive family use, no renting, 5-year hold from completion or TOP, no subdivision.[1][3]
Sentosa Cove Exception: Foreigners buy landed properties here unrestricted—no SLA approval needed. Think luxury waterfront bungalows starting S$10 million+, ideal for high-net-worth families seeking privacy.[1]
SLA Approval Criteria Breakdown
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| PR Status | At least 5 years |
| Economic Contribution | Taxable employment income, investments in Singapore economy[4] |
| Post-Approval Rules | Residential only, 5-year hold, no rent[1][3] |
Strata landed in approved condo developments also allowed without approval.[4]
Properties Foreigners Cannot Buy
HDB flats are reserved for citizens and PRs—no exceptions.[1][5]
Executive Condominiums (ECs): Solo foreigners barred; joint PR-non-PR possible post-5-year MOP.[1][5]
Commercial, industrial, agricultural land restricted.[1]
Financial and Ownership Considerations
Beyond ABSD, expect Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD) up to 6%, property tax (concessionary if owner-occupied), condo maintenance fees (S$300-600/month).[1][3]
Foreigners married to citizens skip ABSD on first buy if no prior property; refundable on switch if sold within 6 months.[1]
Check financing via Bank Rates ">Homejourney Bank Rates or Financing Options for Foreign Buyers in Singapore 2026 | Homejourney ">Financing Options for Foreign Buyers; use ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026 | Homejourney ">ABSD Calculator.[1][2]
Practical Steps and Decision Framework
Step 1: Use Property Search ">Homejourney Property Search to filter condos by district, price.
Step 2: Calculate costs: ABSD 60%, BSD, legal fees (1-2%).
Step 3: Engage lawyer for Option to Purchase; 8-12 weeks to completion.[3]
- Verify eligibility on SLA site.[4]
- Prioritize condos in Districts 9/10 for liquidity.
- Assess Sentosa for landed if qualified.
- Budget 65%+ cash due to LTV/ABSD.
Pros of condos: Amenities, liquidity; cons: High ABSD. Landed: Prestige, space; cons: Restrictions.[1][2]
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming HDB access—leads to wasted time.[1]
- Ignoring 5-year hold on approved landed—penalties apply.[3]
- Underestimating ABSD—plan remittances early.[2]
- Skipping lawyer—red flag for unverified titles.
Homejourney verifies listings for safety; post-purchase, check Aircon Services ">aircon services for maintenance.[1]
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can foreigners buy landed properties in Singapore?
Yes, with SLA approval (rare, needs 5-year PR + economic contribution) or freely in Sentosa Cove.[1][4]
What is the ABSD rate for foreigners in 2026?
60% flat rate on all residential buys.[1][2]
Can foreigners buy HDB flats?
No, reserved for citizens/PRs.[1][5]
Are ECs open to foreigners?
Limited: Joint PR-non-PR post-5-year MOP only.[1][5]
How to start buying as a foreigner?
Search verified options on Homejourney, calculate duties, consult lawyer.[3]
Disclaimer: This is general info from official sources (SLA/URA 2026). Not financial/legal advice—consult professionals. Homejourney prioritizes verified data for your safety.
Ready to explore? Start with Property Search ">Homejourney Property Search and our pillar on Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney ">Property Buying for Foreigners. Trust Homejourney for transparent Singapore property journeys.
