Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore: Your 2026 Guide
Foreigners can buy private condominiums, apartments, strata landed houses in approved developments, and short-term leasehold landed properties (up to 7 years) without government approval in Singapore. Properties requiring Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU) approval include vacant land, terrace houses, semi-detached houses, bungalows, and non-approved strata landed houses—but approvals are rare and come with strict conditions. HDB flats, Executive Condominiums (ECs), and worker dormitories remain off-limits.
This cluster article dives deep into these rules, offering foreigner PR citizen comparison and property buying comparison for informed decisions. As part of Homejourney's pillar on Foreigner vs PR vs Citizen: Singapore Property Buying Rules 2026 ">Foreigner vs PR vs Citizen: Singapore Property Buying Rules 2026, it equips you with actionable insights in a trusted, verified environment prioritizing your safety.
Properties Foreigners Can Buy Without Approval
Under the Residential Property Act (RPA), administered by the Singapore Land Authority (SLA), foreigners have unrestricted access to high-demand categories representing most foreign purchases[1][4]. These options suit both owner-occupiers and investors, with full rental flexibility.
- Private Condominiums and Apartments: The go-to choice, including freehold and 99-year leasehold units in developments like The Sail @ Marina Bay or upcoming launches near MRT stations. Foreigners bought over 20% of new private homes in 2025 per URA data. Insider tip: Check MCST fees (S$400-800/month) via Projects Directory ">Homejourney's projects directory for hidden costs.
- Strata Landed Houses in Approved Condominium Developments: Townhouses or cluster houses under Planning Act approval, like those in Upper Thomson. Enjoy landed privacy with condo facilities—no approval needed[1][4].
- Short-Term Leasehold Landed Properties (≤7 years): Temporary options for defined stays, renewable only if specified[4]. Ideal for expats on short contracts.
These allow 100% foreign ownership, rental income, and resale without restrictions, making them practical for types of properties foreigners can buy in Singapore[5].
Properties Requiring LDAU Approval: Rare and Restrictive
Foreigners may apply for vacant residential land, terrace/semi-detached houses, bungalows, non-approved strata landed, Sentosa Cove landed, or shophouses (non-commercial)[4]. Approval demands 5+ years as PR and exceptional economic contribution, like high-taxable income[1][4].
Even if granted, conditions bind buyers: exclusive family use (no renting), 5-year hold (from TOP/CSC for new builds), no subdivision[1][3]. Approvals are exceptional; SLA assesses case-by-case. Example: A tech executive in Orchard Road might qualify after 6 years PR status, but speculative investors rarely do.
Ownership comparison: Unlike citizens/PRs with free landed access, foreigners face barriers preserving housing for locals[4].
Properties Completely Off-Limits
HDB flats, ECs (first 10 years), worker dorms, and residential-use commercial properties are reserved for citizens/PRs[1][2]. This policy ensures affordable public housing—HDB supplies 80% of residences.
ABSD and Foreigner PR Citizen Comparison: Key Cost Differences
ABSD different status hits foreigners hardest at a flat 60% on purchase price/valuation (whichever higher), unchanged since 2023[1][2]. No exemptions, even for first buys—e.g., S$2M condo triggers S$1.2M ABSD, due 14 days post-OTP[2].
Compare via this table:
| Buyer Status | 1st Property ABSD | 2nd Property ABSD | Landed Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Singapore Citizen | 0% | 20% (joint w/PR: 5%) | Full |
| PR | 5% | 25% | With conditions |
| Foreigner | 60% | 60% | Approval only (rare) |
Citizens/PRs use CPF; foreigners cannot. LTV caps: foreigners 75% max[2]. Joint buys take highest rate (60% for whole property)[1]. Use Homejourney's ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026 | Homejourney ">ABSD Stamp Duty Calculator & Guide 2026 for precise property buying comparison.
Practical Steps and Decision Framework
1. Verify eligibility on SLA site.
2. Search condos via Property Search ">Homejourney property search.
3. Calculate costs: Add 60% ABSD, 1-4% BSD, lawyer fees (S$2-3K).
4. Secure financing—check Bank Rates ">Homejourney bank rates or read Financing Options for Foreign Buyers in Singapore 2026 | Homejourney ">Financing Options for Foreign Buyers 2026.
5. Engage lawyer for OTP; follow Step-by-Step Property Buying Process for Foreigners | Homejourney 2026 ">Step-by-Step Process for Foreigners.
Decision tips: Prioritize condos near MRT (e.g., 5-min walk from Orchard MRT) for liquidity. Pros of strata landed: space; cons: higher MCST. Avoid overpaying—use Homejourney's verified data for trust.
Common Mistakes and Insider Tips
Mistake: Assuming PR speeds approval—still needs 5 years + contribution[4]. Tip: Start as non-PR with condos; apply PR via ICA for future options.
Mistake: Ignoring joint-buy ABSD trap. Tip: Citizens marrying foreigners trigger 60%—plan profiles early.
Post-buy: Budget S$5K/year maintenance; link to Aircon Services ">Homejourney aircon services for upkeep. Homejourney verifies listings, ensuring safe transactions amid 2026 market (prices up 5% YoY per URA).
FAQ: Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy in Singapore
Can foreigners buy landed property in Singapore?
Only with rare LDAU approval or strata in approved developments/short leases[1][4].
What is the ABSD for foreigners buying a condo in 2026?
Flat 60% on full value—no reductions[1][2].
Foreigner vs PR property buying: Key differences?
PRs get 5-25% ABSD, some landed access; foreigners 60% ABSD, condos mainly. See Foreigner vs PR vs Citizen: Singapore Property Buying Rules 2026 ">comparison guide.
Can foreigners rent out purchased properties?
Yes for approval-free types; no for approved landed[1].
How does Homejourney help foreign buyers?
Verified searches, ABSD tools, and safe processes prioritize your trust.
Disclaimer: This is general info; consult lawyers/IRAS for advice. Rules per SLA/URA 2026.
Ready to explore types of properties foreigners can buy in Singapore? Start safely with Property Search ">Homejourney's property search and link back to our pillar on Foreigner vs PR vs Citizen: Singapore Property Buying Rules 2026 ">Singapore Property Buying Rules 2026.
