Overview of Foreign Ownership of Land and Property in Pakistan
Let’s get to know, Can foreigners buy property in Pakistan? Foreign ownership of land and property in Pakistan is governed by the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FEDA) of 1947 and the Pakistan Citizenship Act of 1951. In light of these laws, except under particular circumstances such as diplomatic missions, foreign companies, and joint ventures with Pakistani citizens, foreigners can’t buy property in Pakistan. Foreigner ownership of land and property is restricted to 18% of the total land area, but there is no restriction on agricultural land. Some foreign nationals have been able to buy a property through nominees or by transferring the title to a Pakistani relative. However, this is an illegal practice, and it can result in the seizure of real estate by the government. In 2013, there were 17677 registered foreign investors in Pakistan.
The Restrictions on Foreign Ownership of Property in Pakistan Include
- Foreign nationals are not allowed to own property in Pakistan, except under special circumstances such as diplomatic missions, foreign companies, and joint ventures with Pakistani citizens.
- Foreign companies can explore a world best business opportunity by owning property in Pakistan for the purpose of setting up a business or industry there, but they must first obtain permission from the government.
- Foreigners are also not allowed to purchase real estate within the federal capital of Islamabad.
- Foreigners are not allowed to own land larger than 300 square meters in any provincial capital, and foreigners are generally not allowed to own agricultural land.
- Foreigners are allowed to purchase up to two residential properties in Pakistan.
- Pakistan limits the amount of land that can be owned by foreigners to only 2 percent of the total land area.
- Foreign investors are required to obtain a permit from the government in order to purchase or lease land in Pakistan.
- In some provinces, such as Sindh and Baluchistan, foreigners are restricted from owning any type of real estate at all.
Required Permits for Foreign Ownership of Property in Pakistan
The following permits are required for foreign ownership of property in Pakistan:
- The first step is to acquire a property purchase permit from the provincial government. This permit is generally only granted to nationals of countries that have diplomatic relations with Pakistan. The permit costs around $2,000 and must be renewed every six months.
- NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the Ministry of Interior
- Approval from the Pakistan Board of Investment
- Approval from the Foreign Exchange Regulation Act (FERA)
- A valid passport and visa
- Proof of funds for the purchase.
Foreign ownership of property in Pakistan can be a beneficial investment for foreigners and locals alike. However, the above-mentioned permits are required in order to own property in Pakistan, and these permits can often be difficult to obtain.
After acquiring the purchase permit, the next step is to obtain a construction permit from the local municipality. This permit is required if any work is going to be done on the property, including remodeling or adding onto it.
Different Approaches to Buying Property in Pakistan
There are two main ways to buy property in Pakistan: through a Pakistani national, or through a foreign investment company.
If you’re working with a Pakistani national, they’ll need to be the one to purchase the property on your behalf. They’ll also be responsible for all the legal paperwork and liaising with the authorities.
If you’re working with a foreign investment company, they’ll handle all the legal paperwork for you. However, they’ll typically take a more significant commission fee (typically around 10%).
Al Safa Marketing is a renowned real estate marketing company in Pakistan. Foreigners, looking for residential and commercial properties, can buy property in Pakistan by contacting Al Safa Marketing. They can buy plots, apartments, shops, and offices in any of Al Safa Marketing’s residential and commercial projects namely Town One, Al Barka Heights and Mall of Korang.
Questions to Consider When Buying a Property in Pakistan
When considering purchasing property in Pakistan, you will need to ask yourself a few questions:
- What are my reasons for wanting to purchase property in Pakistan?
- Can I afford to buy property in Pakistan?
- What is the process for purchasing property in Pakistan?
- What are the risks associated with purchasing property in Pakistan?
- Are there any restrictions on foreigners purchasing property in Pakistan?
- What is the current market value for the property in Pakistan?
Conclusion
It’s not just foreigners who are interested in property investment in Pakistan. Pakistanis are also investing in property in other parts of the world. The government is also encouraging the development of the property sector by removing certain taxes and offering other incentives. So, the answer to the question is, yes, foreigners can buy property in Pakistan.
Also Read: Reasons for Property Prices Crash in Pakistan
