Real estate related taxes are a major part of the true cost of owning property abroad. Our research team has compared real estate taxation in 80+ countries, making it easy to benchmark markets side by side.
The table below highlights the four main taxes investors should consider:
- Property Transfer Tax – tax paid when buying property (often called stamp duty in some countries).
- Annual Property Tax – recurring tax on holding real estate, usually based on assessed or market or cadastral value.
- Rental Income Tax – tax paid by non-resident individuals on rental income earned from property.
- Capital Gains Tax – tax on the profit from selling real estate.
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Important Note
The data is updated annually and reflects average national figures. Tax rates can change, and actual liabilities may depend on local rules, property type, or personal circumstances. We strongly recommend consulting a qualified local tax advisor before making investment decisions.
Methodology
All figures apply only to real estate and are based on national averages, official tax codes, and verified secondary sources. The data is collected and updated annually. Where multiple tax rates exist, we present the most commonly applicable figures for residential property.
Other Costs
- Survey fees: Fees for property surveys or inspections, which may be required during the purchase process.
- Acquisition fees for tax numbers or residency permits: Costs associated with obtaining tax identification numbers or residency permits in certain countries.
- Company setup costs: Fees for establishing a company, which may be necessary for foreign buyers in some countries.
- Buying/Selling Fees: When buying or selling property, the transfer tax is just one of many costs, others include notary fees, agent commissions, and various administrative charges.
Sources
Global Property Guide Research, with inputs from local real estate agents, government agencies, World Bank Doing Business, PwC, and Deloitte.
