Buying Property in Europe: Conditions by Country (2025)

What are the conditions for non-EU nationals to buy property in Europe?

Apr 12, 2025

Disclaimer: I tried to put together the conditions for acquiring property in Europe for non-eu citizens. I did the best I could, but be sure to check the current status with a local professional before buying.

Albania 🇦🇱

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. Foreigners can freely buy residential property (houses, apartments). Only agricultural land is off-limits – non-citizens cannot own farmland but may lease it for up to 99 years . No special permits are required for buying urban real estate.

Restrictions: No legal hurdles for city properties. Farmland over 1,000 m² cannot be purchased by foreigners (can be rented long-term or bought via an Albanian company) . There are no residency requirements for buyers.
Taxes: Low. Albania imposes virtually no property purchase taxes – transaction costs are minimal (no stamp duty, just nominal legal fees) . Ongoing property taxes are very low, keeping carrying costs cheap.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. A straightforward, foreigner-friendly market for buying homes (aside from excluded farm plots).

Andorra 🇦🇩

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed with conditions. Non-residents may buy property but must obtain prior authorization from the Andorran government . This approval process is standard for all foreign buyers.

Restrictions: Foreigners were traditionally limited to one property unless they became residents. As of 2024, a new tax on foreign real estate investment (3–10% depending on number and type of properties) was introduced to curb speculation . A 4% transaction tax applies to purchases (for all buyers) .
Taxes: Moderate. Standard transfer taxes total about 4% of the price . The new progressive foreign-investor tax can raise transaction costs for multiple-property buyers. There are no annual property taxes, but owning in Andorra now carries higher upfront costs for non-residents.
Ease of Purchase: Medium. Purchasing is feasible with government permission. The process is not overly complex, but additional taxes and the authorization step add some friction.

Austria 🇦🇹

Non-EU Ownership: Restricted. Non-EU citizens can buy Austrian real estate only under specific conditions: having EU/EEA citizenship, holding an Austrian residence permit, purchasing via a company registered in the EU, or obtaining explicit permission from the local land authorities . Many provinces tightly regulate foreign purchases.
Restrictions: Strict regional rules. Around half of Austria’s federal states (e.g. Vienna, Salzburg, Tyrol, etc.) impose limits or approval requirements on non-resident buyers . In practice, without residency or EU ties, buying property is very challenging. Each transaction may be subject to review by the Land Commission before a foreigner can acquire title.
Taxes: Moderate-High. Closing costs run ~10% of the purchase price (3.5% transfer tax, 1.1% land registry fee, notary and agent fees) . Ongoing property taxes are low in Austria. Transaction costs are significant, but not the highest in Europe.
Ease of Purchase: Difficult. Austria’s property market is one of the toughest for non-EU buyers to access. Unless you have legal residency or an EU company setup, expect a complicated process with case-by-case approvals.

Belgium 🇧🇪

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. There are no restrictions on foreign citizens buying property in Belgium – non-EU buyers have the same rights as locals. The market is open and foreign investment is common in Belgian real estate.
Restrictions: None legally – no permits or residency requirements. A foreign buyer can purchase any residential property (house or apartment) freely. (Only standard checks like money-laundering due diligence apply.)
Taxes: High. Belgium has one of Europe’s highest purchase costs . Registration duties and notary fees typically total around 10–12% of the property price, which is substantial . Renting out property is also tax-heavy (rental income can be taxed around 50%) . Annual property levies exist but are moderate.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. Legally, it’s easy for a non-EU buyer to purchase a home in Belgium. The only downside is the hefty transaction tax load, which increases the cost of an otherwise straightforward purchase.

Bosnia & Herzegovina 🇧🇦

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed (reciprocity required). Foreigners can buy homes and apartments in Bosnia under mostly the same conditions as locals, provided the buyer’s home country allows Bosnian citizens to purchase property there . In practice, this reciprocity clause is satisfied for most Western countries.
Restrictions: The primary requirement is a reciprocity agreement between Bosnia and the foreigner’s country . There is no general permit process; once reciprocity is confirmed, a foreigner may acquire property. (Bosnia’s two entities have slightly different regulations, but both allow foreign ownership given reciprocity.) Agricultural land may be restricted for foreign individuals, so farmland purchases often require setting up a local company.
Taxes: Moderate. Transaction costs vary by region: in the Federation entity, a 5% transfer tax is typical, while Republika Srpska currently has either a lower tax or exemptions. Overall, purchase fees are mid-range. Annual property taxes are minimal to none in many cases, keeping ownership costs low.
Ease of Purchase: Easy/Medium. For most foreign nationals (U.S., EU, etc.), buying a residential property is relatively straightforward once legal reciprocity is confirmed (a standard procedure). The process, paperwork, and closing costs are not onerous, making Bosnia a reasonably accessible market for non-EU buyers.

Bulgaria 🇧🇬

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. Foreigners (including non-EU citizens) can freely buy apartments and buildings in Bulgaria . Residency in Bulgaria is not required to purchase real estate . The property rights of foreign buyers are nearly the same as those of locals.
Restrictions: The main restriction is on land ownership: non-Bulgarian individuals cannot directly own land (e.g. the plot under a house or any agricultural land) . A common workaround is to register a Bulgarian limited company, which can purchase land and thus effectively own a house with land . (EU citizens are exempt from this and may own land due to Bulgaria’s EU obligations.) Other than the land issue, there are no permits or approvals needed for foreigners buying condos or standalone houses (minus the land title).
Taxes: Low to Moderate. Purchase costs are relatively low: around 2–3% local transfer tax and notary fees. There is no stamp duty beyond this local tax . Annual property taxes are very low (a small fraction of the property’s value). Overall, transaction costs are affordable by European standards.
Ease of Purchase: Medium. Buying an apartment or holiday home is straightforward and easy. Buying a house with land adds a step (setting up a Bulgarian company), which is a routine process but does add complexity. In general, Bulgaria is welcoming to foreign buyers and known for its inexpensive real estate.

Croatia 🇭🇷

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed with formalities. Non-EU citizens may purchase residential properties in Croatia, but they must obtain approval from the Ministry of Justice before the sale is finalized . This approval (essentially a check for reciprocity and security concerns) is largely a formality for most nationalities and is usually granted. (If the foreign buyer purchases via a Croatian company, no permission is required .)
Restrictions: Foreign individuals cannot buy agricultural or forest land in Croatia as of now (consistent with regional practices). The approval process for urban real estate can take some time, but it rarely blocks a purchase for citizens of countries friendly with Croatia. EU citizens face no such requirement, but non-EU buyers do need that Ministry nod. In practice, the biggest restriction is just the paperwork and waiting period for the buying permission.
Taxes: Low. Croatia has a 3% property transfer tax on real estate purchases (for both locals and foreigners), which is relatively low in Europe. If buying a newly built property directly from a developer, VAT (25%) may apply instead of the transfer tax, but most individual buyers purchase resale homes at 3%. There are minimal notary and admin fees. Annual property taxes are negligible – Croatia currently has no annual property tax on real estate (only a very small municipal fee in some cases).
Ease of Purchase: Medium. The process for a foreigner is quite straightforward apart from the required purchase permission (which introduces a delay). Once approved, the transaction proceeds like a normal sale. Overall difficulty is moderate – far from impossible, but not as instantaneous as in countries with zero formalities.

Cyprus 🇨🇾

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed with conditions. Non-EU citizens can buy property in Cyprus, but they must obtain official permission from the Council of Ministers for the purchase . In practice this is readily granted for one residential property (house or apartment) on a plot up to 4,014 m² (about 3 donums) .
Restrictions: Non-EU buyers are generally limited to one housing unit or plot. Owning multiple properties requires special permissions or use of a local company. By law, a non-EU individual cannot own more than one piece of real estate in Cyprus (a second property would have to be bought in a spouse’s or relative’s name, for example) . Commercial properties can only be bought via a Cypriot-registered company . Other than these limits, Cyprus is welcoming – thousands of non-EU investors own holiday homes here.
Taxes: Moderate. Cyprus imposes transfer fees on a sliding scale (around 3–8% depending on property value) for resale properties. Stamp duties are small (~0.2%). VAT of 19% applies only to new developments (often waived or reduced for first-time buyers). Annual property taxes in Cyprus are low (and as of recent years, the immovable property tax has been abolished). Transaction costs are in the mid-range for Europe.
Ease of Purchase: Medium. The buying process is straightforward and permission is almost always a rubber stamp for a standard home purchase, but the one-property limit and paperwork step keep it from being “easy” in absolute terms. Still, Cyprus is considered very foreign-buyer-friendly with relatively light regulation.

Czech Republic 🇨🇿

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. The Czech Republic places no restrictions on foreign buyers. Both EU and non-EU citizens are generally allowed to purchase property without limitations . (Earlier restrictions on foreigners buying property were lifted after 2009.)
Restrictions: None for typical residential real estate. Foreign individuals and companies can buy apartments, houses, and land freely. No permits, no residency requirements, and no quotas – the market is open. (Acquiring certain agricultural land might have some procedural nuances, but there is no outright ban for non-EU owners in general nowadays.)
Taxes: Low. Notably, the Czech Republic has no property transfer tax as of 2020 (it was abolished) – a big plus for buyers. You’ll mainly pay a notary or legal fee and a small cadastral registration fee. Annual property taxes are very minimal (just a few CZK per square meter in most cases). Overall transaction costs are among the lowest in Europe.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. Buying property in Czechia as a foreigner is as simple as it is for a local. With a straightforward process, no special approval needed, and low transaction costs, the Czech Republic offers a very accessible environment for non-EU real estate buyers.

Denmark 🇩🇰

Non-EU Ownership: Heavily restricted. Non-EU citizens cannot buy residential property in Denmark unless they intend to use it as their primary residence or business base and meet certain conditions . Specifically, a foreigner must either have previously lived in Denmark for at least 5 years, or currently have a valid residence permit (or EU citizenship with Danish employment) to be eligible .
Restrictions: Essentially, Denmark requires a strong personal or professional connection to the country before allowing property purchase by a foreigner . Holiday homes for non-residents are generally not allowed. In exceptional cases, the Ministry of Justice may grant dispensation for a non-EU buyer who doesn’t meet the criteria, but this is rare. In short, unless you’re moving to Denmark long-term or have deep ties, you cannot buy property there as a non-EU national.
Taxes: Low (transaction) / Moderate (holding). Denmark has very low purchase costs – no stamp duty in the usual sense (only a token fixed fee plus 0.6% registration fee) . This makes upfront costs “almost no taxes” . However, Denmark’s annual property taxes (land and municipal taxes) are relatively high, which means ongoing costs for owners can be significant.
Ease of Purchase: Difficult. For a typical non-EU investor or second-home seeker, Denmark is essentially off-limits. Only those who obtain Danish residency or have lived there for years can buy, making it one of the most restrictive markets in Europe for foreigners.

Estonia 🇪🇪

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. Foreigners (non-EU) are free to buy residential real estate in Estonia, with no permit required for city properties or standard plots. Key exceptions exist for certain types of land.
Restrictions: Non-EU/EEA citizens cannot purchase agricultural or forest land in Estonia . (This is a firm ban; such land can only be owned by Estonian/EU/EEA citizens or entities.) Additionally, foreigners may not buy property in designated border zones for security reasons . Other than those two categories (farmland/forest and border areas), Estonia imposes no special restrictions – foreigners can buy apartments, houses, and commercial units freely. If a foreigner wished to acquire over 10 hectares of land, they’d need special permission, but typical home purchases are well below that threshold .
Taxes: Low. Estonia’s purchase costs are very low – roughly around 1–2% total. There’s no hefty transfer tax; you mainly pay notary and state fees (which are modest). The Euronews report confirms Estonia’s buying costs are about 1.3%, among the lowest in Europe . Annual property taxes are also minimal (Estonia has no annual building tax, only a land tax which is small). This makes the ongoing cost of ownership quite low.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. Outside of restricted rural land and border strips, foreign buyers face no impediments. The process is quick and simple, and transaction fees are negligible. Estonia is considered very friendly to international buyers looking for homes or investment properties.

Finland 🇫🇮

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed with permit. As of 2020, Finland requires non-EU/EEA foreigners to obtain a permission from the Ministry of Defence to buy real estate anywhere in Finland . This law was introduced for national security, but it means a permit application is now a standard step for non-EU buyers. (EU/EEA citizens are exempt, and shares in housing companies – how apartments are owned in Finland – are generally not affected by this rule.)
Restrictions: All non-EU buyers must go through the permit process, though in most cases it’s a formality. Certain sensitive properties (e.g. near military sites) might face rejection, but ordinary residential purchases usually get approved. Åland Islands: A special case – even Finnish citizens need right-of-residence status to buy on Åland. Foreigners cannot buy property on the semi-autonomous Åland Islands without meeting strict local residency conditions . Apart from Åland, and the new permit requirement, Finland does not restrict property types – foreigners can buy homes, land, etc., after clearance.
Taxes: Moderate. Finland’s transfer tax is 4% for real estate (and 2% for apartment shares). Notary costs are low, but buyers usually pay a few percent in taxes overall. Annual property taxes are moderate as well – municipalities levy roughly 0.3–1% of assessed value per year. In sum, transaction costs are average, and holding costs not excessive.
Ease of Purchase: Medium. The new permission requirement adds an extra step (and a bit of waiting) for foreign buyers, preventing Finland from being “frictionless.” However, with approval typically granted, the process remains manageable. Many non-EU buyers do successfully purchase homes (especially apartments) in Finland. It’s a fairly accessible market, but not as straightforward as it was pre-2020.

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France 🇫🇷

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. France does not impose restrictions on foreign buyers – non-EU citizens enjoy the same property rights as French nationals. Buying a holiday home or investment property in France as a foreigner is common practice and requires no special status.
Restrictions: None legally. No permits, no quotas, and no citizenship conditions. (Certain rural or protected zones may have planning rules, but they apply equally to locals and foreigners.) In essence, any non-EU individual can purchase real estate in France freely. France welcomes international buyers, which is reflected in its large expat property ownership community.
Taxes: Moderate-High. The costs of buying property in France are relatively high. Transaction fees (notary fees, registration taxes) typically run about 7–8% for existing properties. These costs are borne by the buyer and are considered among the higher in Europe . If you rent out the property, rental income is taxed (often around 20% for non-residents, higher if treated as French-sourced progressive tax). Annual taxes include the taxe foncière (property ownership tax) which is moderate, and taxe d’habitation (phased out for many). Overall, while there’s no foreigner surcharge, France’s standard closing costs and taxes make the total expense substantial .
Ease of Purchase: Easy. From a legal standpoint, it’s very easy – foreigners can buy without hindrance. The process is well-defined (usually handled by a notary). Aside from navigating the paperwork in French and paying the usual fees, a non-EU buyer won’t face special barriers.

Germany 🇩🇪

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. Germany imposes no restrictions on foreign purchasers. Non-EU citizens are free to buy property (houses, condos, land) in Germany, with the same ownership rights as Germans . There are no approval requirements based on nationality.
Restrictions: None. Foreigners can buy any type of real estate – residential or commercial – without needing residency or special permits. The German market is very open; many international investors and expats own property in cities like Berlin, Munich, etc. (One only needs to comply with standard legal procedures, which apply equally to locals.)
Taxes: Moderate. Germany’s property purchase costs are mid-range. The main tax is the property transfer tax (Grunderwerbsteuer) which ranges from 3.5% to 6.5% of the price, depending on the state. On top of that, notary and registration fees (~1.5%) apply, and if you use an agent, their commission (3–7% + VAT) adds to the cost. Without an agent, total closing costs are roughly 5–8%. Annual property taxes are quite low in Germany (the yearly Grundsteuer is a small fraction of property value). Overall, transaction taxes are not the lowest, but Germany doesn’t reach the extreme high end either.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. The process for a foreigner is the same as for a German buyer – it’s straightforward, albeit with some bureaucracy (sales are executed by notaries). Financing might be slightly more involved for overseas buyers, but legally there’s no extra hurdle. Germany is considered a secure and accessible market for foreign real estate buyers.

Greece 🇬🇷

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. Foreigners (non-EU) can buy property in Greece freely except in certain designated sensitive areas . The vast majority of locations (including Athens, islands like Mykonos, Santorini, etc.) are open to international buyers without special permission.
Restrictions: Greece prohibits non-EU/EEA citizens from buying property in regions near national borders and military bases for security reasons . These include parts of Northern Greece, areas in Crete and Rhodes, the Dodecanese and East Aegean islands close to Turkey, and some border zones . In these zones, a foreigner would need special clearance from the Ministry of Defense, which is not commonly granted – effectively making those areas off-limits. Outside of those limited zones, there are no extra restrictions. So, a non-EU buyer can freely purchase in all popular tourist and urban areas.
Taxes: Moderate-High. Buying costs in Greece include a property transfer tax of ~3% on most sales (for older properties) or 24% VAT on new construction, plus legal fees and a notary fee (~1.5%). For most resale home purchases, expect around 5% total in transaction costs. Greek property taxes on owners (ENFIA) are moderate, but the Euronews index notes that Greece has relatively high overall costs for property investors (including income taxes on rental, etc.) . Still, purely for purchasing a home to use, the one-time taxes are not exorbitant (around European average).
Ease of Purchase: Easy. Apart from avoiding the small number of restricted border areas, a non-EU buyer will find Greece very accessible. The purchase process is straightforward (using a notary and lawyer), and no special permit is needed in the open zones. Greece is a popular destination for foreign buyers due to its openness and reasonable buying process.

Hungary 🇭🇺

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed with permit. Non-EU citizens may buy property in Hungary, but must obtain prior permission from the local authorities (usually the county government office) . This is a standard procedure for foreign buyers of real estate in Hungary.
Restrictions: Foreigners cannot purchase agricultural land in Hungary at all (only Hungarian/EU farmers can, per law) . For residential properties, the main rule is the foreign buyer’s permit. In most cases, this is a formality taking a few weeks; however, permission can be denied in certain cases (for example, properties in designated resort areas like around Lake Balaton or Hévíz might be restricted ). If the foreigner sets up a Hungarian company to buy the property, then no individual permit is required . Generally, ordinary apartment and house purchases by foreigners are approved without issue, apart from rare strategic exemptions.
Taxes: Moderate. Hungary charges a transfer tax (stamp duty) of 4% of the property value for buyers. Other closing costs (notary, registration) are minor. This 4% is a middle-of-the-road rate internationally. Annual property taxes are low (Hungary doesn’t have a significant annual property tax on homes; only small local taxes in some cases). According to a recent report, taxes for property investors in Hungary are moderate .
Ease of Purchase: Medium. The necessity of obtaining a purchase permit makes the process a bit longer and more involved for non-EU buyers. Still, Hungary remains quite accessible: the permit is typically granted and is more of an administrative step. Many foreigners do successfully buy in Budapest and elsewhere. So while not as effortless as some countries, Hungary’s property buying process for non-EU citizens is reasonably straightforward.

Iceland 🇮🇸

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed with permit. Non-EEA foreigners (including non-EU) must seek permission from the Ministry of Justice to purchase real estate in Iceland . This is an established legal requirement – essentially, if you are not an Icelandic citizen or an EEA resident with domiciled status, you need a waiver to own property.
Restrictions: Iceland tightly controls property rights for outsiders. Typically, only those who become resident in Iceland or have EEA free-movement rights can purchase without a permit . Others must provide a valid reason (such as intending to settle or invest in a business) when applying for approval. There are also special restrictions: foreigners (even EEA) cannot buy homes on the Åland-like island of Grímsey or certain strategic locations, but generally the main hurdle is the permission itself. Each case is reviewed by authorities. It’s not a blanket ban, but casual purchases (like a purely vacation home) by non-residents may face difficulty obtaining approval.
Taxes: Low. Iceland’s transaction costs are quite low . There is a nominal transfer tax (called stamp duty) of about 0.8% for individuals, and around 1.6% for companies. Other costs include a small registration fee. There is no significant buyer’s tax beyond that. Annual property taxes exist at municipal levels, but are moderate (commonly 0.2–0.3% of value). Overall, the tax burden on property ownership is light in Iceland, with “almost no” acquisition taxes compared to other countries .
Ease of Purchase: Difficult. Without some connection to Iceland (residency or special approval), it’s hard for a non-EU foreigner to buy property. The need to secure government permission makes the process uncertain and potentially lengthy. Those who do get approval (often for personal residence or substantial investment) will find the buying process itself straightforward, but Iceland is not an on-a-whim purchase market for non-Europeans.

Ireland 🇮🇪

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. Ireland has an open-door policy for property ownership – non-EU citizens can buy property without any restrictions or permits. There are no nationality-based barriers to purchasing real estate.
Restrictions: None. Foreign buyers are free to purchase residential (and commercial) properties just as locals would. No requirement to become a resident or seek special consent. Even agricultural land is not explicitly barred to foreign nationals (Ireland generally allows foreign ownership of land). The only considerations are practical (opening a bank account, obtaining a PPS number for tax if renting out, etc., which are procedural).
Taxes: Moderate. Ireland’s stamp duty is 1% on properties up to €1 million (and 2% on value above that). This is relatively moderate, though luxury properties incur more. Legal fees and miscellaneous costs might add another ~1–2%. So, transaction costs in many cases total ~2–3% (higher for very expensive homes). Annual property taxes (Local Property Tax) are modest, a few hundred euros per year on average home values. Note that if a foreign buyer leaves the property vacant or rents it out, there aren’t extra taxes specific to foreigners (though rental income would be taxed normally).
Ease of Purchase: Easy. Buying in Ireland as a foreigner is practically the same as for an Irish person. The process is simple, and agents/notaries are experienced with overseas buyers. Other than handling currency exchange and possibly not being physically present for some steps, a non-EU buyer will face no special hurdles in Ireland.

Italy 🇮🇹

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. Italy permits non-EU citizens to buy property without significant limitations . In principle, as long as the foreigner’s home country has some form of reciprocity agreement with Italy, they can purchase real estate. (Italy’s law of reciprocity means if an Italian can buy property in your country, you can do the same in Italy – this covers most countries, including the US and UK.) There are no residency requirements to buy a home in Italy.
Restrictions: Virtually none for residential properties. Once the reciprocity condition is met (which it is for most non-EU countries of interest ), a foreign buyer can purchase apartments, villas, land, etc., just like an Italian. Some special cases: if a foreign state strictly prohibits Italians from owning property there, Italy might enforce a ban in return, but this is rare. Also, buying in historic city centers may involve extra permission if renovating (for heritage reasons), but that’s unrelated to nationality. Overall, Italy is very welcoming to foreign buyers – it even has “Golden Visa” programs to encourage property investment.
Taxes: Moderate-High. Italy’s transaction taxes can be on the higher side. If you buy a second home (or you’re not an Italian resident buying your primary home), the registration tax is 9% of the cadastral value (which is typically a bit lower than market price) . Notary fees ~2–3% and some fixed taxes apply as well. All told, a foreign buyer can expect roughly 10% in purchase costs. (If one becomes an Italian resident and buys a primary home, the tax drops to 2%, but non-residents don’t get that benefit.) Annual property taxes (IMU) are moderate for non-primary residences (around 0.4–0.6% of value, but exempt if the property is classified as a primary home and you eventually become resident). Italy’s purchase costs are substantial, potentially exceeding 12% in certain cases , making it one of the higher-cost jurisdictions in Europe tax-wise.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. Legally and practically, it’s easy for a foreigner to buy in Italy. The process is well-trodden (many non-EU citizens own holiday homes in Italy). With a good notaio (notary) to handle paperwork, a non-resident can complete a property purchase without hassle. Aside from the sizeable taxes, Italy poses no special barriers to non-EU buyers.

Latvia 🇱🇻

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. Foreigners (non-EU) may purchase apartments, houses, and commercial properties in Latvia without needing any permit. There are, however, restrictions on certain categories of land.
Restrictions: Non-EU/EEA citizens cannot purchase agricultural or forest land in Latvia . Such rural lands are off-limits to third-country nationals. Additionally, there are some protected zones where no foreigner (even EU) can buy, such as border buffer zones, nature reserves, the protective coastal dunes along the Baltic Sea/Gulf of Riga, and areas of strategic mineral deposits . These are quite specific and not typically where residential real estate is. For standard city and suburban real estate, there are no special restrictions on foreign buyers. No residency or approval is required. Latvia even ran “residence permit through real estate” programs in the past to attract foreign buyers, indicating its openness.
Taxes: Moderate. The property transfer duty in Latvia is 2% of the purchase price (capped at €42,300), which is reasonable. Notary and registration fees are small. If a foreigner buys through a company, there might be some additional stamp duties, but for individual buyers the costs are straightforward. Annual property tax is levied on cadastral values at progressive rates (typically 0.2–0.6% for most residential property; higher for very expensive ones). This ongoing tax is moderate. Overall, Latvia’s transaction costs are mid-range (roughly 3–5% in total with fees) .
Ease of Purchase: Easy. Buying an apartment or house in Latvia as a non-EU citizen is simple and not burdened by bureaucracy. Unless one is trying to buy restricted rural land (which most ordinary buyers wouldn’t), the process is direct. Riga and Jurmala, for instance, have seen many non-EU buyers (Russians, etc.) purchase properties without issue (though note recent geopolitical changes can affect specific nationalities). In summary, Latvia is quite accessible for foreign purchasers.

Liechtenstein 🇱🇮

Non-EU Ownership: Severely restricted. In Liechtenstein, only residents of the country are permitted to purchase real estate . Foreigners who do not hold Liechtenstein residency (regardless of EU or non-EU) generally cannot buy property there. This micro-state has perhaps the most restrictive property laws in Europe regarding foreign ownership.
Restrictions: Liechtenstein employs a very strict system. Even Liechtenstein residents require special approvals to buy a second home, and non-resident foreigners are essentially barred entirely. There are extremely few exceptions (e.g. an individual who obtains a special permit or citizenship by exception, which is rare). The country’s size and policy of protecting its land for locals mean the door is effectively closed to foreign buyers. In practice, a non-citizen would need to obtain a residency permit in Liechtenstein (which itself is very difficult and quota-limited) before being allowed to purchase property.
Taxes: Moderate. If one were able to purchase, the transaction costs in Liechtenstein are similar to Switzerland’s – around 3%–5% (including a purchase tax and notary fees). Annual property taxes are low. However, these tax considerations are moot for most foreigners due to the legal inaccessibility of the market.
Ease of Purchase: Difficult. For a non-resident, it is effectively impossible to purchase property in Liechtenstein under current laws. Only by becoming a resident (or via an unlikely special exemption) could a foreigner buy a home. Thus, from an outsider’s perspective, Liechtenstein’s real estate market is not practically attainable.

Lithuania 🇱🇹

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. Lithuania permits foreign individuals to buy residential and commercial properties without residency or special permits. The only exclusion is agricultural land.
Restrictions: Non-EU citizens cannot purchase agricultural land or forest land in Lithuania . Those types of land can only be leased long-term or purchased via a legal entity registered in Lithuania . For typical houses, condos, or development land in cities, there are no restrictions on foreign ownership. Lithuania, like its Baltic neighbors, opened its real estate market widely; many foreigners have bought apartments in Vilnius and seaside homes, for example, with no issues.
Taxes: Low-Moderate. Lithuania’s purchase costs are relatively low. There is no significant transfer tax on property transactions (only a flat notary fee and registration fee, which together usually amount to around 0.5%–1% of the price). If the deal involves an agent, their commission (around 2%–3%) might be the largest extra cost. Annual property tax in Lithuania is only charged on expensive properties – there’s a threshold (around €150k cadastral value per owner) under which there’s no annual tax for individuals; above that, a 0.5–2% tax applies on the excess. This means most average homes are not subject to any annual property tax. In short, transactional and holding taxes for typical buyers are quite low.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. Lithuania is very hospitable to foreign buyers. The acquisition process is straightforward and foreign nationals have nearly the same rights as locals (apart from farmland). With low costs and few barriers, buying a home or investment property in Lithuania as a non-EU citizen is a smooth process.

Luxembourg 🇱🇺

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. Luxembourg does not restrict foreign ownership of real estate. Foreigners (EU or not) are permitted to acquire property – including land – without any restrictions, and enjoy uniform property rights regardless of nationality .
Restrictions: None. Luxembourg has a completely open real estate market. A non-EU buyer can purchase apartments, houses, rental properties, or land in the Grand Duchy just as a local can. There are no special approvals or conditions imposed on foreign buyers. (The market’s only challenge is high prices, but legally speaking, nationality is not a factor.)
Taxes: High. Transaction costs in Luxembourg are on the higher side. There is a 7% registration tax on property purchases (plus a 3% transcription tax in the capital), effectively ~10% in taxes. Notary fees add ~1–2%. Overall, total closing costs often range about 12–16% – quite significant. However, first-time owner-occupiers get a hefty tax credit (the “Bëllegen Akt” rebate) that can offset up to €20k in purchase tax, but foreign investors or second-home buyers won’t benefit from that. Annual property taxes in Luxembourg are remarkably low (almost negligible amounts), so the main tax hit is at purchase time.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. From a procedural standpoint, it’s easy for a foreigner to buy in Luxembourg – there are no extra hoops. The notary system and property laws are clear and equally applied. The only downsides are the high transaction taxes and the costly market itself. But legally, non-EU investors have it straightforward in this stable, wealthy market.

Malta 🇲🇹

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed with conditions. Malta allows non-EU citizens to purchase property, but requires them to obtain an AIP (Acquisition of Immovable Property) Permit from the authorities . This permit process ensures the buyer meets certain criteria (primarily that the property price exceeds set minimums). Non-EU foreigners are generally limited to owning one residential property in Malta (unless buying in special designated zones).
Restrictions: For a foreigner outside the EU, the property’s value must be above a government-specified threshold (around €137,000 for apartments and €236,000 for houses, figures periodically adjusted) . The buyer must obtain the AIP permit for any purchase outside the Special Designated Areas (SDAs). SDAs are specific projects/locales where foreigners can buy freely without a permit or quantity limit – typically luxury developments. Outside of SDAs, a non-EU individual can only own one property on the islands, and they cannot rent it out (unless it’s in those designated zones or they get a rental permit). Essentially, Malta lets foreigners buy for their own use, especially higher-end property, but controls multiple acquisitions and investment uses.
Taxes: Moderate. Purchasing property in Malta incurs a 5% stamp duty (though first-time buyers get an exemption on the first €200k). There’s also a one-time registration fee (~1%) and the cost of the AIP permit is nominal. So total purchase costs for a foreign buyer are roughly 6% of the price, which is average. Malta has no annual property tax, so holding the property is tax-free (aside from income tax if you rent it out). Overall transaction costs are in line with other countries.
Ease of Purchase: Medium. While many non-EU nationals successfully buy homes in Malta, the AIP permitting process and the one-property rule add a layer of complexity. It’s not difficult to get the permit (it’s usually granted as long as you meet the price threshold and have no legal barriers) , but it’s extra paperwork. If you stick to buying in a Special Designated Area, the process becomes Easy (no permit needed). So the ease largely depends on whereand what you choose to buy in Malta.

Monaco 🇲🇨

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. Monaco imposes no restrictions on foreign buyers – anyone, regardless of nationality, may purchase property in the Principality . In fact, Monaco’s real estate market is predominantly foreign-owned, and the government welcomes international capital.
Restrictions: None on purchase. A foreign buyer can buy apartments or houses (mostly apartments, as Monaco is a high-rise city-state) freely. One does not need to be a resident to buy, though owning property in Monaco does not automatically grant residency. The only “restriction” is that background checks and proof of funds are usually required as part of doing business in Monaco, but that applies equally to all buyers to ensure reputation and compliance (Monaco is very secure and regulated). There might be higher registration fees for non-residents in some cases , but generally the legal right to own is unrestricted .
Taxes: Moderate-High (purchase)/Low (ongoing). Monaco has no annual property tax and no capital gains tax, which is attractive. However, buying property involves a 6% registration tax (if it’s a resale) plus notary fees ~1.5%, so roughly 7.5% upfront. If buying new from a developer, there’s 20% VAT instead (often embedded in the price) plus 2.5% notary, making new-builds effectively ~20–22.5% tax-paid, but most Monaco sales are resales. There are also some minor differences if the buyer uses an offshore company (then 9% tax). In summary, for an individual, expect around 7–8% in purchase costs, which is on par with many places. Zero ongoing taxes significantly offsets this over time.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. Monaco is used to foreign buyers (Russians, Brits, Americans, etc.) and has a streamlined process. Transactions are handled by notaries and estate agents proficient in international dealings. As long as the buyer can meet Monaco’s financial due diligence (show legitimate source of funds), there’s no barrier. The market is high-end, but from a purely regulatory viewpoint, non-EU nationals face no extra burden.

Montenegro 🇲🇪

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed (mostly). Montenegro allows foreign individuals to buy residential properties, including houses and apartments, quite freely. Foreigners can also purchase land with a building on it up to a size of 5,000 m² (1.2 acres) . Purchasing larger tracts of undeveloped land would require doing so via a Montenegrin company.
Restrictions: Key limitations include: raw land over 5,000 sqm can’t be bought by a foreign individual (vacant development land beyond that size needs a corporate purchase) ; foreigners also cannot own property in certain protected areas (national parks) or near the national borders (no property ownership within 1 km of a border) . Additionally, assets like those on military/naval strategic sites or on natural islands are off-limits to non-citizens . Despite these, typical coastal apartments, homes in towns, and even smaller plots with houses pose no issue. No general permit is required for foreigners buying allowed property types – the restrictions are categorical (size/location) rather than procedural.
Taxes: Low. Montenegro’s closing costs are low. The property transfer tax is 3% for resales (new properties can be subject to 21% VAT instead, but if you’re buying from a developer that’s usually included in the price). Notary and registration fees are small. So for most purchases, ~3% is the tax cost. Annual property tax runs about 0.25%–1% of the property’s estimated value, varying by municipality and property usage, which is moderate. Overall, transaction costs are favorable.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. In practice, Montenegro is quite foreign-investor friendly (it even offers citizenship by investment via real estate for large investments, as an aside). As long as you’re not trying to buy forbidden land or something in a national park, the process is straightforward and foreigners have the same rights as locals. Many coastal properties are owned by Russians, Europeans, etc. Thus, for the typical non-EU buyer, Montenegro offers a hassle-free experience with minimal taxation.

Netherlands 🇳🇱

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. The Netherlands places no restrictions on foreign buyers acquiring property. Non-EU individuals are free to buy houses, apartments, or any other real estate, and enjoy full ownership rights.
Restrictions: None on ownership. You don’t need Dutch residency or any permit to buy. Foreign investors commonly buy property in Amsterdam and other Dutch cities. The only practical “restriction” could be that obtaining a local mortgage might be harder for non-residents, but legally the purchase itself has no nationality barriers. Agricultural land is also not explicitly restricted to foreigners (though large transactions might come under scrutiny for zoning reasons, not buyer nationality). The Dutch housing market is regulated in terms of tenancy laws and sometimes purchase conditions (for example, some new housing developments require buyers to live in the property to avoid speculation, regardless of nationality). Such conditions, if any, apply equally to everyone.
Taxes: Moderate to High (for investors). The Netherlands charges a transfer tax on property purchases. For buyers intending to occupy the home as their primary residence, the transfer tax is 2%. But for non-resident investors (or anyone buying a second home or buy-to-let property), the transfer tax is currently 10.4% (as of 2023, this rate was increased to discourage investors). This distinction means many foreign buyers, who won’t be living full-time in the property, face a higher tax. Apart from that, notary fees are modest (~1%). So a non-resident foreign buyer can expect around 11–12% in purchase costs due to that tax. Annual property taxes (ozb) are low to moderate (set by municipalities, a few hundred euros typically). So, taxes are low if you move in, high if it’s an investment/secondary purchase.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. The buying process in the Netherlands is transparent and foreigner-friendly. Agents and notaries often speak English and are experienced with international buyers. No special approval is needed. The main consideration is the higher purchase tax category if applicable. Overall, legally and logistically it’s easy for a non-EU national to buy Dutch property, albeit with somewhat higher transaction cost if not using it as a primary home.

Norway 🇳🇴

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. Norway does not restrict property purchases by foreigners. Non-EU citizens have the same right to buy, own, and sell real estate as Norwegians . You do not need to be a resident or get any permit – if you have the funds, you can buy property in Norway.
Restrictions: Virtually none. Foreigners can buy apartments, houses, cabins, etc. across Norway. Even rural land has no general prohibition (though certain remote arctic islands like Svalbard have some special rules for all buyers, and some small municipalities have their own quirks or pre-emption rights in remote areas – but these are rare and apply regardless of nationality). By and large, Norway treats foreign buyers equally. It’s noted that in “very rare cases” a specific municipality might restrict sales of secondary homes to outsiders to protect local housing availability , but such cases are few and not nationality-based.
Taxes: Low. Norway’s purchase costs are low. The primary cost is a 2.5% stamp duty on property transfers (and even that is waived if you buy a new construction as your first transfer). There’s a small title registration fee and typically no requirement for an attorney in straightforward deals, which keeps transaction expenses minimal . Annual property taxes exist in some municipalities but not all, and where levied are modest (~0.1–0.3% of value). Norway does have a wealth tax that can include real estate value if you become tax resident, but non-resident owners aren’t subject to that. Summarily, closing costs are around 2.5–3%, making Norway one of the lighter-tax environments for buying property.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. The process is simple and foreign-friendly. There are no additional steps for a foreign buyer beyond the normal transaction process. Many properties are sold via well-regulated bidding processes. Foreign buyers routinely acquire holiday cabins, city apartments, etc., with no fuss. With low taxes and no legal barriers, Norway is very accessible – the main challenge might just be the high property prices in some areas.

Poland 🇵🇱

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed with permit (for land). Non-EU citizens can freely buy apartments in Poland (no permit required for flats) . However, buying any property that comes with land (e.g. a standalone house with a plot, or an empty land parcel) will require obtaining a purchase permit from the Polish Ministry of Internal Affairs . This permit is typically granted if the buyer can demonstrate some connection to Poland or reason for purchase (examples: having a temporary or permanent residence permit in Poland, Polish heritage, or a Polish spouse) .
Restrictions: Flats (condominiums) – no restrictions at all for foreigners . Houses/land – non-EU foreigners must go through the permit process. The permit is a formality if the foreigner has a credible tie to Poland, but without local ties it can be tricky. Often, foreign buyers who lack a personal connection will establish a Polish company to buy houses or land, as a company purchase bypasses the need for the individual permit. Additionally, any property located in a designated border zone also requires special permission to acquire . Agricultural land over 1 hectare is mostly off-limits (Poland severely restricts farmland sales to foreigners unless special permission is granted for certain cases) . Summing up: foreigner buying a city apartment – easy and no approval; buying a suburban home – permit needed (unless using a company or qualifying via residency); buying farmland – very difficult.
Taxes: Moderate. Poland’s transaction costs sit around the middle. For resale properties, the buyer pays a 2% transfer tax (PCC) on the purchase price, plus notary and small land registry fees (perhaps ~0.5%). For newly built properties bought from a developer, there’s no transfer tax but instead VAT is included in the price (8% VAT for smaller residences, 23% for larger luxury ones). Either way, total purchase costs are usually in the ~2–3% range for most standard transactions (not counting any agent commission if applicable). Annual property taxes in Poland are very low – a token tax on land/building area that amounts to very little (for example, a few złoty per square meter per year, often under €100 annually for an apartment). According to rankings, Poland has moderate taxes and strong rental yields, making it attractive .
Ease of Purchase: Medium. It depends what you’re buying. Purchasing a condo in Warsaw or Kraków as a foreigner is easy – no paperwork hurdles. But if your heart is set on a house with a white-picket fence, the required Interior Ministry permit makes the process medium difficulty; you’ll need to justify your purchase (often via some personal link to Poland). Many foreigners do succeed (especially those who live/work in Poland or have some heritage). The system is manageable but does require patience. Overall, Poland welcomes foreign buyers, especially in the urban market, though a bit of red tape exists for landed properties.

Portugal 🇵🇹

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. Portugal allows foreigners full rights to purchase property – non-EU citizens can buy real estate under the same conditions as locals . There are no nationality-based restrictions; indeed Portugal has actively encouraged foreign buyers through programs like the (now winding down) Golden Visa.
Restrictions: None for ownership. Foreign individuals can buy houses, apartments, land, etc. without any special permission. Some coastal or border properties might have specific rules (like needing approval to ensure they are not in nature reserves), but those apply to all buyers, not just foreigners. Recently, there has been political discussion about housing affordability and possibly limiting certain sales to non-residents, but as of 2025 no law restricts foreign ownership – policies have instead targeted residency permits rather than the act of buying. In summary, Portugal is very open: foreigners can and do own property from the Algarve to Lisbon to the Douro valley just as freely as any Portuguese citizen.
Taxes: Moderate. Portugal’s purchase costs include a property transfer tax (IMT) which is progressive up to 6-8% depending on property price and type (with lower or zero rates for low-cost housing). Additionally, there’s a fixed stamp duty of 0.8%. In total, most transactions will incur around 5–8% tax in Portugal. Notary and registration fees are relatively small. Thus, closing costs can be in the mid-high single digits percentage-wise. On an ongoing basis, property owners pay an annual municipal property tax (IMI), which ranges roughly 0.3–0.45% of the cadastral value (capped at 0.8% in a few areas). The Euronews report noted that while Portugal is popular for foreign buyers, part of the reason is tax benefits: rental income for non-residents is taxed at a flat 24% (or 19% if EU resident) and there are attractive non-habitual resident tax schemes. Overall, Portugal’s transaction taxes are around average, not the lowest but not exorbitant.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. The process in Portugal is straightforward and well-trodden by foreign buyers. No special approval needed – you sign a contract ( CPCV) then a deed at a notary. Many lawyers and agents in Portugal speak English and cater to international clients. The environment is very foreign-buyer-friendly. The only slight caution is rapid price rises and competition in popular areas, but from a pure access standpoint, Portugal is one of the easiest European markets for a non-EU citizen to buy into.

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Romania 🇷🇴

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed (buildings). Foreigners (non-EU) can purchase apartments and buildings in Romania without significant restrictions . However, they cannot directly own land in Romania in their name . This means a non-EU buyer may buy a flat (since it comes with a share of land owned by the building association) or even a house – but the land underneath that house cannot be owned by them unless an exception applies or they use a legal entity.
Restrictions: By law, non-EU citizens are not allowed to own land (either agricultural or urban) as individuals, except under very limited cases or treaties . EU/EEA citizens gained the right to own land in Romania after transitional periods, but non-EU citizens still face this restriction. In practice, a foreigner can buy a house with a yard by establishing a Romanian company which then holds title to the land (the foreigner can fully own the company). Alternatively, certain reciprocity agreements exist – for example, citizens of countries that have reciprocal arrangements (and perhaps those who become Romanian residents) might acquire land, but these cases are specific . Buying an apartment is straightforward since you’re not directly owning the land. So in summary: Buildings = Yes, Land = No (for non-EU individuals).
Taxes: Low. Romania’s buying costs for an individual are low. There is no transfer tax for the buyer – instead, the seller pays a small tax on the transaction (if applicable). The buyer’s costs are mainly notary fees and a registration fee, totaling around 1% or so. If a company is buying, there might be VAT on new properties, but for individual resale purchases it’s quite cheap tax-wise. Annual property taxes in Romania are modest; for individuals, it’s around 0.1% of the property’s taxable value (and somewhat higher for properties held through companies). Thus, the transaction and holding costs are not burdensome.
Ease of Purchase: Medium. Purchasing a condo as a foreigner is easy – Romania has no issue with that. Purchasing a house or land parcel is trickier since you’d need to navigate the land ownership restriction. That typically means setting up a Romanian LLC, which is an extra step (though a fairly routine one). Because of that extra complication for land, Romania is not as seamless as some of its neighbors for non-EU buyers. Still, many foreigners do buy (especially in cities like Bucharest, or buying vacation homes in Transylvania via a company), so it’s very doable with proper legal guidance.

San Marino 🇸🇲

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed with residency. In San Marino, foreigners (including non-EU) are allowed to buy property, but they must obtain a residency permit in San Marino before purchasing . In practice, this means you need to be approved to reside in San Marino (through work, family, or investment visas) to own real estate there.
Restrictions: The key restriction is the residency requirement. Simply being a foreign tourist or investor is not enough; one has to become a resident of San Marino to buy a home. This involves an application process to the government (with criteria such as having employment in San Marino, or making an approved investment, etc.). There is also a limit on the number of properties a non-citizen resident can own (often one property per resident non-citizen, aimed at primary residence). San Marino is a very small republic, so it controls property ownership tightly. Foreigners cannot buy real estate at all if they do not have a San Marino residence permit. Owning property itself does not automatically confer residency – it’s the other way around: one must have residency to own property .
Taxes: Moderate. San Marino’s property transfer taxes are similar to Italy’s, roughly in the 5%–8% range of the property value (this may include a registration tax and stamp duty). There might be some additional approval fees during the purchase process since transactions involving foreigners go through a vetting (but that’s more administrative). Annual property taxes are low to negligible in San Marino. Since it’s a small jurisdiction, detailed info isn’t widely published, but costs are not known to be extreme – the main hurdle is legal, not fiscal.
Ease of Purchase: Difficult. For a non-EU foreigner, buying in San Marino is quite challenging because you first need to qualify for residency in one of Europe’s smallest states. This significantly raises the bar (San Marino residency is limited and comes with conditions like a minimum investment or job offer). If one does manage to become a resident, the actual process of buying is straightforward enough, but until then, it’s not an accessible market. In short, San Marino is not a place where an average foreign investor can easily pick up a holiday flat – it requires commitment to the country.

Slovakia 🇸🇰

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. Slovakia generally allows foreign citizens to buy residential and commercial real estate without needing special permission. In 2011, Slovakia lifted most restrictions on foreign ownership of property.
Restrictions: The main exception is agricultural and forest land – foreign individuals (non-Slovaks) cannot purchase agricultural or forest plots in Slovakia , unless they are EU citizens meeting certain conditions (non-EU foreigners remain excluded from farmland). Aside from that, there are no specific nationality-based restrictions. A non-EU person can buy apartments, houses, and even ordinary land (if it’s not classified as agricultural/forest). No permit or residency is required for urban real estate. So the only category off-limits is farmland/forest, reflecting Slovakia’s effort to protect these until a few years ago (even EU citizens had restrictions during a moratorium period post-EU accession). Now EU citizens can buy farmland with conditions, but non-EU still cannot except via perhaps a Slovak company. Regular residential plots in towns are usually not categorized as agricultural, so those are fine.
Taxes: Low. Slovakia has no property transfer tax at all – buying property does not incur a transfer duty. Buyers pay only minimal administrative fees and usually a fee to the cadastre to register the deed. If an agent is used, their fee (around 3%–5%) is the major cost, but often in Slovakia the seller covers the agent’s fee. Annual property tax is very low; it’s set by municipalities based on area, and for an apartment it’s often only tens of euros per year. In summary, transaction and holding costs in Slovakia are among the lowest in Europe.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. It’s very straightforward for a foreigner to buy a flat or house in Slovakia. With zero transfer tax and no need for permissions, the process is as per normal sale. Just avoid trying to buy agricultural land, which is a specialized scenario anyway. The real estate purchase process is notarized and secure. Many foreigners (especially EU nationals) have bought property in Bratislava and the Tatra mountain region; non-EU nationals too can do so (there’s no distinction in the law for typical properties). Therefore, Slovakia is an accessible market with minimal friction for non-EU buyers.

Slovenia 🇸🇰

Non-EU Ownership: Largely not allowed. In Slovenia, individuals who are not EU citizens generally may NOT buy real estate . The only way for a non-EU foreigner to acquire property is to either (a) be a citizen of a country with a special reciprocity agreement or OECD membership (Slovenia does extend reciprocity to a short list of countries like the USA – because Slovenia deems U.S. laws reciprocal – and some OECD members), or (b) purchase via a company registered in Slovenia . Essentially, for most non-EU individuals, direct ownership is prohibited.
Restrictions: The Slovenian constitution originally forbade foreign ownership of land except by reciprocity. Now EU citizens can buy freely (EU treaty), but non-EU citizens can only buy if their home country is on a list of permitted countries. The USA, for example, is allowed by reciprocity law (so American citizens can buy property in Slovenia as individuals, because Slovenians can buy in the US) . But many nationalities (especially from countries without reciprocal treaties) cannot. In practice, this means a Chinese or Russian individual cannot directly buy property in Slovenia, whereas an American or Canadian can (due to OECD reciprocity policies). These nuances aside, a foreigner can always establish a Slovenian company (even 100% foreign-owned) and have that company purchase real estate – that is legal . Agricultural land is even more tightly protected – virtually no non-Slovenian (including most foreigners) can purchase it. Summing up: Slovenia is restrictive, but check reciprocity; if none, you need to use a local corporate entity to own property.
Taxes: Moderate. Slovenia’s real estate transfer tax is 2% on the sale price for resale properties. If buying new from a developer, VAT (9.5% for most residences) is applied instead of transfer tax. Notary fees and other closing costs are small (maybe ~1%). So total purchase costs tend to be around 3% for a typical transaction. Annual property taxes in Slovenia are quite low (there is talk of reform, but currently only a minor municipal fee on real estate). So purely on taxes, Slovenia is friendly.
Ease of Purchase: Difficult. For a non-EU buyer from a country without a reciprocity arrangement, Slovenia is essentially closed – you’d have to go through the complexity of setting up a company to own the property . Even for those who are allowed by reciprocity (like U.S. citizens), navigating the confirmation of that status and the buying process can be more involved. The market is not as accustomed to foreign individual buyers as some others, so it can be slower. Thus, unless you have a special status, purchasing in Slovenia ranges from challenging to impossible (directly). For those who do qualify or choose the company route, it’s doable but requires good legal assistance. This puts Slovenia in the more difficult bracket for non-EU investors.

Spain 🇪🇸

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. Spain places no legal restrictions on non-EU foreigners buying property. International buyers (whether from Europe, America, Asia, etc.) are free to purchase apartments, houses, land, etc. in Spain just as locals do.
Restrictions: Virtually none nationwide. Foreigners even frequently buy rural and coastal properties without issue. (There are a few narrow exceptions: for example, purchases of large rural estates on the islands or near military installations might theoretically require a defense ministry nod, but this is rarely encountered in practice.) Recently, there have been political proposals to restrict foreign buyers in overheated markets or impose extra taxes (like in the Balearic Islands), but as of 2025 no such ban is in force . So, legally speaking, Spain is fully open. Non-resident buyers simply have to obtain an NIE number (foreigner ID) for the transaction, which is routine. Spain has also incentivized foreign investment via its Golden Visa program (investment of €500k+ in property grants a residency visa), underlining that it welcomes foreign buyers.
Taxes: High. Spain’s property transaction costs are on the higher end. Transfer tax (Impuesto de Transmisiones Patrimoniales) on resale properties ranges by region but is often around 8–10% of the price. In some regions, for more expensive properties or second homes, it can go up to 11–13%. New properties have 10% VAT (IVA) plus ~1.5% stamp duty. Add notary, registry fees (~1%) and possibly an agency fee. All told, a typical foreign buyer might see around 10–13% in purchase costs, which is among the highest in Europe . Annual property taxes (IBI) are moderate (perhaps 0.4–1.1% of cadastral value, depending on municipality). Non-resident owners also pay an imputed income tax on property (around 1.1% of cadastral value taxed at 19–24% for non-residents). If renting out, net rental income is taxed at 24% for non-EU owners. In short, transaction taxes are quite high in Spain, and there are some ongoing taxes for foreign owners of holiday homes.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. The buying process is well-established for foreigners – Spain is one of the most popular countries for international homebuyers. No special permission needed. The main “difficulty” might be competition in popular areas or dealing with bureaucracy to get your tax number, but legally there’s no barrier. With the help of a notary and usually a lawyer, foreigners regularly buy properties all over Spain. Recent political discourse about curbing foreign ownership has not translated into law (apart from extra taxes in Catalonia for empty homes or such, which apply to all owners). Therefore, Spain remains one of the easiest places for a non-EU citizen to buy, aside from the hefty taxes involved.

Sweden 🇸🇪

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. Sweden does not restrict foreign ownership of property. Non-EU citizens are welcome to purchase real estate, and there are no permits or residency requirements to do so.
Restrictions: None specific to nationality. Foreigners can buy condominiums, houses, summer cottages, etc. There is not even a requirement to be an EU citizen – anyone can buy. One nuance: much of Sweden’s housing stock are cooperative apartments (“bostadsrätt”), which means buying the right to an apartment via membership in a housing association. These co-ops sometimes have their own rules (such as needing the board’s approval or an intention to use the unit as a primary residence), but those apply to any buyer, not specifically foreigners. Otherwise, Sweden is completely open. You don’t have to be a resident to own property, although if you plan to live there for more than 90 days, you’d need the appropriate visa/status.
Taxes: Low (transaction). Sweden’s purchase costs are relatively low. For buying real property (like a house or a title apartment), there is a stamp duty of 1.5% for individuals. For buying a cooperative apartment (bostadsrätt), there’s actually no stamp duty at all, which means costs can be even lower (just a small membership transfer fee). Brokerage fees are typically paid by the seller in Sweden, so the buyer usually doesn’t pay the agent. Annual property tax on houses is capped and typically quite low (max around 0.75% of assessed value, with an annual cap amount ~SEK 8,524 in 2025). Many apartments (co-ops) don’t have individual property tax; the association might pay a small tax collectively. Overall, transaction taxes are among the lowest in Europe, and holding costs are moderate.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. Sweden’s market is transparent and foreigner-friendly. There are no legal hurdles – an overseas buyer might just need to acquire a Swedish personal identification number or coordination number for paperwork, but that’s a simple formality. The process often involves open bidding and a quick closing. Foreign buyers should be aware that getting a local mortgage as a non-resident can be tough, but if you have cash or financing elsewhere, the transaction itself is smooth. In summary, Sweden is one of the most accessible markets for a non-EU buyer.

Switzerland 🇨🇭

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed but heavily regulated. Switzerland has strict rules (the “Lex Koller” law) limiting foreign non-resident purchases. Non-resident foreigners are generally only allowed to buy certain types of properties (typically vacation homes) in approved tourist areas, and even then with quotas and size limits . Foreign residents living in Switzerland (with a Swiss residence permit) have fewer restrictions, being able to buy a primary residence. But purely non-resident non-EU buyers face significant constraints.
Restrictions: Extensive. If you are not residing in Switzerland, you can usually only purchase a holiday home or apartment in designated resort cantons (like parts of Valais, Vaud, Graubünden, Ticino) and there is a yearly quota on how many such properties can be sold to foreigners . The property size is capped (around 200 m² of living space, land plot not exceeding 1,000 m²) . You cannot rent out the property year-round (short-term rental is allowed in many cantons, but it must predominantly serve as a vacation home for you). Non-resident foreigners cannot buy property purely as an investment (no buying to rent – that’s not permitted under Lex Koller) . Each canton may have slightly different implementations, but the general theme is that foreign non-residents can own at most one holiday property and nothing more. Foreigners also cannot buy real estate in cities for personal use unless they become Swiss residents. Even foreign companies face strict rules in purchasing Swiss real estate . In short: without residency, options are limited to holiday homes in alpine and lake resort towns, and even those are under strict control. With residency, one can buy a primary home, but still cannot own a second home or rental property without special permission.
Taxes: Moderate. Transaction costs in Switzerland vary by canton but are generally moderate (~3-5%). There may be a property purchase transfer tax or notary fee (in some cantons around 1% each, others have none). Annual property taxes are low (some cantons have a small tax, others don’t). However, there is an annual “imputed rental income” tax on homeowners, and if you are non-resident, you’ll be taxed in Switzerland on income from the property (or a deemed income if not rented). Also, Swiss properties contribute to wealth tax for owners (if you are subject to Swiss wealth tax or in your home country treaty). But overall, pure transaction taxes are not high compared to many countries. The main “tax” is the opportunity cost of the regulation, not monetary tax.
Ease of Purchase: Difficult. Switzerland is one of the hardest European markets for a non-resident foreigner to break into. There are limited properties one is eligible to buy; one must obtain a cantonal foreign buyer permit for the specific property (ensuring it falls under allowed quota and size); and the process can be competitive due to quota caps. Many attractive areas fill their foreign buyer quota each year. If you do get a property, expect ongoing scrutiny (cantons check that you don’t violate rental rules or exceed size limits). For someone intent on owning in Switzerland, the easiest path is to become a legal resident (via work, family reunion, or as some do, via a lump-sum tax agreement for retirees) – then you can buy a house or apartment for personal use with less fuss (though still one per family and no subletting initially). In sum, Switzerland is Difficult for non-EU (indeed for all non-resident) buyers; it’s a privilege that comes with many strings attached.

Turkey (including its European part) 🇹🇷

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. Turkey permits foreign individuals to purchase property, with a few quantitative limits. Non-Turkish citizens can buy residential and commercial real estate in Turkey without needing residency, as long as they abide by certain restrictions on acreage and location .
Restrictions: Foreigners cannot buy more than 30 hectares (300,000 m²) of land in total in Turkey , and there’s a rule that foreigners cannot own over 10% of the land area in any given district/town . Properties in military zones or strategic areas are off-limits to foreign buyers . Additionally, certain nationalities have been restricted: citizens of a few countries (notably Armenia, Syria, North Korea, Cuba, and as of some years, Nigeria and Yemen) are not allowed to buy property in Turkey directly . (These people can only purchase via setting up a Turkish company.) Otherwise, Americans, Europeans, Russians, etc. are free to buy. Each foreign buyer’s cumulative property in the country must stay under the 30-hectare cap. In practice, these limits rarely affect ordinary homebuyers – they are more for large land investors. Most foreigners buy apartments or villas in resort areas well within these limits. Turkey also prohibits any foreign ownership on islands and certain sensitive provinces, but these are seldom in play for normal transactions.
Taxes: Moderate. Turkey’s closing costs are moderate: there is a 4% transfer tax (title deed fee) calculated on the assessed value (often lower than market value) – customarily split 2% buyer, 2% seller, but in many cases the buyer might end up paying it all (effectively ~4% on paper value). There’s also a small earthquake insurance and notary cost. So ~4–5% total. Annual property taxes are low (0.2% of value in big cities for residential). If the property is rented out, rental income for non-residents is taxed on a sliding scale (with exemptions for a base amount). Overall, buying and owning taxes are not high, which is one reason Turkey has attracted foreign buyers.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. Turkey is quite welcoming to foreign buyers; the process is straightforward. You need a tax number and an appraisal report, but many agencies handle these. The transaction goes through the land registry with an interpreter if needed. Turkey has actively sought foreign investment in real estate (even offering residence permits or citizenship if investment thresholds are met). Provided one isn’t from a banned nationality or attempting to buy in a forbidden zone, the procedure is routine. Many foreigners from the Middle East, Europe, and Asia have bought in Istanbul and along the Mediterranean coast in recent years. So despite some limits in law, Turkey remains among the easier places for a non-EU citizen to buy, with a vibrant market catering to overseas clients.

Ukraine 🇺🇦

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. Foreigners, including non-EU citizens, are permitted to buy residential and commercial real estate in Ukraine. There is no general prohibition on foreign ownership of houses, apartments, or business premises. A foreign buyer doesn’t need residency to purchase urban property.
Restrictions: The major restriction is a ban on foreigners owning agricultural land. Ukraine has recently started allowing sales of farmland (after a long ban), but only to Ukrainian citizens; the law explicitly forbids foreign individuals (and companies) from buying agricultural land until at least 2024 or pending a referendum. So if it’s classified as farmland, foreigners cannot buy it. Other than that, foreigners can buy apartments, houses, plots in cities, etc. For land that is not agricultural (say a plot within city limits or designated for construction), foreign ownership is allowed. There are also restrictions on buying property close to borders for security, but those are not commonly encountered in normal transactions. In practical terms, a non-EU buyer can freely purchase a flat in Kyiv or a dacha near Lviv, but cannot purchase a hectare of farmland in the countryside.
Taxes: Low. Ukraine’s purchase costs are low: typically a buyer pays a state duty of 1% and a pension fund contribution of 1% on the purchase price . So about 2% total tax. Notary fees and other admin fees are minimal. (Often the 1% duty is paid by seller and 1% pension fund by buyer, but it can vary – in many cases the buyer covers both, totaling ~2%.) Annual property taxes in Ukraine are very light: there is an annual tax on real estate but only for the portion exceeding 60 m² for an apartment or 120 m² for a house, and even then the rates per m² are quite low (a few hryvnias per m²). Many average properties are below those size thresholds, effectively incurring no annual tax. Thus, cost-wise Ukraine is inexpensive for property owners.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. Buying an apartment or house in Ukraine as a foreigner is generally straightforward. You need a Ukrainian tax identification number (which foreign buyers can obtain), and the transaction must be in the local currency (hryvnia), but these are minor formalities. Plenty of foreigners have bought properties in cities like Kyiv, often for personal use or investment, with no special permission required . Of course, as of 2025, the ongoing conflict in parts of Ukraine means buyers should exercise caution and perhaps limit purchases to safer regions. Legally, though, the process remains accessible. The biggest restriction is on farmland which remains off-limits. Otherwise, Ukraine’s market is open and known for its low entry costs and relatively simple procedures for foreigners.

United Kingdom 🇬🇧

Non-EU Ownership: Allowed. The UK places no restrictions on foreign nationals purchasing property. Non-EU citizens are free to buy real estate (residential or commercial) anywhere in the UK, and ownership rights are the same as for British citizens.
Restrictions: None based on citizenship. You do not need to be a UK resident or have any permit to buy a house or flat. High-profile sales of London property to international buyers testify to this openness. The only “restrictions” in play are practical: buying certain types of property (like former council houses) might have resale covenants, but those apply to any buyer, and some sensitive rural estates near military sites might be scrutinized (rarely an issue). After Brexit, nothing changed regarding property rights – EU and non-EU are on equal footing in terms of the ability to buy. Owning property in the UK, however, does not confer residency status; a foreign owner still must adhere to visa rules if they plan to stay in their property beyond standard visitor allowances.
Taxes: Moderate to High. The UK’s stamp duty land tax (SDLT) on purchases is progressive. For foreign buyers, since April 2021, there’s an additional 2% surcharge on top of the standard rates for non-UK residents. Standard rates in England for a second home or investment start at 3% for the first £125k and go up to 15% for very expensive properties (these include a 3% second-home surcharge) . So a non-resident foreigner buying any property will pay 2% extra above those, meaning the top marginal rate can hit 17% for portions of price above £1.5m. For more moderately priced properties, a foreign buyer might pay around 5–7% in SDLT in total. Scotland and Wales have similar taxes (LBTT/LTT) with slightly different bands, also with a foreign buyer surcharge. Annual property taxes (Council Tax) are moderate, based on property value bands, typically a few thousand pounds a year for a standard home. The UK’s transaction costs can be quite high for expensive properties , but for an average home, the tax might be a moderate few percent.
Ease of Purchase: Easy. The UK property market is very accustomed to foreign buyers. The process (offer, conveyancing, contract, completion) is the same regardless of nationality. A solicitor will do the legal work; there’s no need for any government consent. The main difference is tax: a non-resident will pay a bit more SDLT. Financing might also be a bit more complex if you need a mortgage, as some UK banks prefer domestic borrowers, but cash buyers face no issues. The title registration, etc., is straightforward. Overall, the UK is one of the easiest places for a non-EU person to buy property, with transparent laws and no barriers—only the tax bill and high prices in areas like London might pose a challenge.

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