Many countries around the world have strict restrictions on foreigners buying property, but these countries are actually loosening their regulations.

More and more countries around the world are beginning to restrict foreign buyers from purchasing property. On August 26, South Korea will officially implement new rules for foreign property buyers. The regulations not only establish "foreigner land transaction permit zones," but also require foreign buyers to obtain approval from local governments in advance, move in within four months of approval, and actually reside in the purchased property for at least two years. Anasari, co-founder and CEO of Asian real estate technology group IQI, told First Financial reporter that it is expected that after the implementation of the new policy in South Korea, the situation of offshore property purchase by foreigners may drop to nearly zero next year. Several countries have implemented similar policies this year. The Australian government announced a ban on foreign investors purchasing existing residential properties starting on April 1, which will continue until March 31, 2027. In May, the Spanish government submitted a proposal to parliament to impose a 100% property tax on non-EU buyers. The National Democratic Party of Japan is expected to propose a bill to restrict foreigners from buying real estate at a special session of the Diet this autumn. However, some countries are adjusting their policies in the opposite direction. The New Zealand government is considering relaxing the ban on foreign buyers to attract investment, while Saudi Arabia announced that starting in January 2026, non-resident foreigners will be allowed to purchase property in specific areas, gradually opening up its real estate market.