Guide to Owning a Property: Can Foreigners Buy Property in Singapore?
/
Many expats ask the question, “Can foreigners buy property in Singapore?” The short answer is yes, you can! However, the type of property you’re allowed to purchase will depend on a few important factors, like its location and whether you have been granted special approval.
What Can Foreigners Own?
While landed properties have specific restrictions, foreigners can lease or buy specific types of properties.
Here’s what’s allowed:
Private condo in Singapore (no restrictions)
Leasehold apartments in approved developments
Executive condos after 10 years (fully privatised)
Why Consider Renting First?
If you're unsure about a long-term stay, leasing offers flexibility with luxury.
Here are some top reasons to rent before buying:
Experience different neighbourhoods
Access high-end amenities without ownership costs
Easier exit if plans change
Taxes and Regulations to Know
Foreigners buying or leasing property are subject to taxes and eligibility requirements.
Keep these in mind:
Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) applies to foreigners
Minimum rental period is 3 months for private properties
Government approval needed for landed homes
Whether leasing or aiming to buy the best condo in Singapore, working with a trusted property expert is key.
Additional Information About ABSD
As of current regulations in Singapore, nationals and permanent residents of five countries are exempted from paying the ABSD when purchasing residential property, under the Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) that grant them the same treatment as Singapore citizens for property ownership purposes.
These five countries include:
United States
Iceland
Switzerland
Liechtenstein
Norway
This means that if you’re a citizen of any of these countries (not PT or resident), and you’re buying your first residential property in Singapore as an individual, you pay the same stamp duties as a Singaporean—meaning no ASBD applies to the first property.
This is due to Singapore’s obligations under free trade agreements, such as the U.S.-Singapore FTA and EFTA (European Free Trade Association) agreements.
High-end Condos for Rent in Singapore
If you’re looking for high-end condos to rent in Singapore, here’s a guide to expensive rental condos by district, including typical monthly rent ranges and what you get at each price point:
District 4 – Sentosa / Keppel / Harbourfront
Seafront, marina lifestyle
Examples and Rental Price:
Reflections at Keppel Bay – $8K–$18K/month (2–4BR with views)
The Oceanfront at Sentosa Cove – $10K–$25K/month
Seascape / Cape Royale – $15K–$30K/month
Why rent here?
Waterfront living, rare sea views, resort-style, exclusivity
District 9 – Orchard / River Valley
Top-tier, walkable to Orchard Road.
Examples and Rental Price:
The Marq on Paterson Hill – $25K–$45K/month (4–5BR ultra-luxury units)
Ardmore Park / Sculptura Ardmore – $20K–$35K/month
Cairnhill Nine / 3 Orchard by-the-Park – $8K–$18K/month (2–4BR)
Why rent here?
Prestige, walk-to malls, luxury concierge service, and expat-friendly.
District 10 – Tanglin / Holland / Bukit Timah
Lush, exclusive, near embassies and top schools.
Examples and Rental Price:
Leedon Residence – $12K–$25K/month (3–5BR, huge layouts)
Nouvel 18 – $12K–$22K/month
Ardmore 3 / Boulevard Vue – $18K–$30K/month
Why rent here?
Green space, prestigious addresses, family-focused.
District 11 – Newton / Novena
City fringe, good schools and MRT
Examples and Rental Price:
26 Newton / Lincoln Suites – $6K–$10K/month (2–3BR)
Gilstead Two / Trilight – $8K–$15K/month
Why rent here?
Convenience, less pricey than D9 and D10, but still upscale.
This exemption can significantly improve affordability, giving eligible foreign buyers a significant advantage in Singapore’s competitive property market.
Discover the Best Living Options Today
Can foreigners buy property in Singapore? With the proper guidance of an expert real estate agent, securing your ideal home or rental can be a smooth and rewarding experience.
Explore your options and step confidently into Singapore’s premium real estate market.
