Singapore residence by buying real estate

Can You Get Singapore Residency by Buying Real Estate?

Singapore is one of the world's most expensive real estate markets, and many people assume buying property automatically leads to residency. The reality is different: purchasing real estate in Singapore does not automatically grant you residency or a visa. Property ownership and immigration status are separate matters. However, buying property can support your residency application if you already qualify through other pathways.

Who Can Buy Property in Singapore?

Singapore's real estate rules differ based on your citizenship and residency status:

• Permanent Residents (PRs) can buy landed properties and HDB flats with fewer restrictions
• Singapore Citizens have full purchasing freedom
• Foreigners face strict limitations—generally, only completed condominiums and very few other properties are available to non-PRs
• Property purchases typically require approval from the Foreign Investor Committee or Urban Redevelopment Authority

Visa Pathways That Support Property Investment

If you want to live in Singapore long-term, you need a valid visa first. Property ownership might strengthen certain applications:

• Employment Pass (EP) – For skilled workers earning above a minimum salary. Property ownership shows stability but isn't required
• Tech.Pass or other specialist visas – For tech workers, scientists, and other in-demand professionals
• Entrepass – For entrepreneurs starting a Singapore-based business
• Investor visa (if available) – Some countries offer investor pathways; check if Singapore has one currently

Steps to Buy Property While on a Singapore Visa

If you already hold a valid visa:

1. Get a Singapore bank account (required for most property transactions)

2. Hire a lawyer to review contracts and handle legal paperwork

3. Arrange financing (mortgages may be harder to access as a foreigner)

4. Pay the Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) and other taxes

5. Complete the purchase and registration

Building Toward Permanent Residency

Many people buy property after obtaining Permanent Resident status, not before. The typical path is: get a work visa → work for several years → apply for PR → then consider property investment. Property ownership itself doesn't speed up PR applications, but it demonstrates commitment to Singapore.

What to Know Before Investing

• Property prices are very high; expect to budget significantly
• Foreigners can only purchase in certain locations and property types
• Mortgage approval is more difficult for non-residents
• Annual property taxes and maintenance fees apply
• Currency exchange risk affects international buyers

This is general self-help information, not legal advice. Always verify current rules on the official government website.