Can Foreigners Buy Property in Singapore? A Complete 2025 Guide

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Navigating rules as a non-resident? This guide explains the types of properties you can own and how to apply.

Singapore remains one of the most attractive places in Asia for property investment. With its political stability, strong legal system, and high standard of living, the city-state consistently draws interest from global investors. But can foreigners buy property in Singapore? And if so, what are the rules in 2025?

This complete guide outlines the types of properties foreigners can purchase, the restrictions involved, additional taxes payable, and key things to know before investing in Singapore real estate.

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Singapore?

Yes, foreigners can buy property in Singapore — but with specific restrictions depending on the type of property. The Residential Property Act governs foreign ownership and is designed to strike a balance between welcoming foreign investment and protecting local housing supply.

1. Types of Properties Foreigners Can Buy Freely

Foreigners are allowed to purchase the following without prior approval:

Private condominiums and apartment units
Executive condominiums (ECs) that are at least 10 years old (fully privatised)
Commercial properties (e.g., shophouses zoned commercial, offices, industrial units)
Strata-titled retail units in malls or mixed-use developments
Landed commercial properties

These properties can be purchased under personal name or through a company, subject to taxes.

2. Restricted Properties: What Foreigners Need Approval To Buy

The following require approval from the Land Dealings Approval Unit (LDAU):

Landed residential property (e.g., bungalows, semi-detached houses, terrace houses)
Strata landed homes not within approved condominium developments
HDB flats and new Executive Condominiums (within the 10-year MOP period)

Approval is generally granted only to foreigners with strong economic ties to Singapore — such as permanent residents (PRs), global business owners, or individuals contributing significantly to the economy.

Note: Foreigners cannot buy HDB flats, including resale flats, under any circumstance unless they are part of a mixed Singaporean family unit.

3. Stamp Duties Payable by Foreign Buyers (As of 2025)

When buying residential property in Singapore, foreigners are subject to Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) in addition to standard Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD).

Current ABSD Rates for Foreigners (2025):

ABSD for foreigners: 60% of the property purchase price or market value (whichever is higher)

This rate is applicable to all residential property purchases by foreigners who are not Singapore citizens or permanent residents.

BSD (Buyer’s Stamp Duty) also applies to all buyers:

1% on first $180,000
2% on next $180,000
3% on next $640,000
4–6% for portions above $1 million (progressive scale)

Commercial and industrial properties are not subject to ABSD, making them an attractive option for foreign investors.

4. Financing Restrictions for Foreigners

Foreigners can apply for property loans in Singapore, but Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratios may be lower than for citizens or PRs. Typically:

Up to 75% LTV with proper financial documentation
TDSR (Total Debt Servicing Ratio) applies, limiting loan repayments to 55% of monthly gross income

Foreign buyers may also face higher interest rates, and banks often require proof of overseas income, assets, and tax records.

5. Can Foreigners Rent Out Their Property?

Yes, foreigners who own private residential property in Singapore are allowed to rent out their units, provided they comply with:

Minimum rental period of 3 months for private condos
Registration with the URA for short-term rental guidelines
Restrictions on partitioning or overcrowding (up to 6 unrelated tenants per unit)

HDB flats and ECs under 10 years cannot be rented out to foreigners who own them (though this is mostly theoretical, as ownership is restricted).

6. Key Considerations Before You Buy

Tax planning: High ABSD rates can impact investment returns
Exit strategy: Consider rental yields, capital appreciation, and resale demand
Legal representation: Engage a local law firm experienced in foreign transactions
Ongoing costs: Include maintenance fees, property tax, and insurance in your calculations

Final Thoughts

Yes, foreigners can buy property in Singapore — but with careful planning and awareness of legal and financial restrictions. While condos and commercial units are accessible, landed residential properties and public housing remain largely out of reach.

If you're a foreign buyer considering an investment in Singapore in 2025, it’s essential to work with qualified agents, lawyers, and financial advisors to ensure a smooth and compliant transaction.