Can I Buy a House in the Caribbean as a Foreigner in Many Countries? If So, Which Island Nation Best to Purchase a Single or Multi-Family Home or Condo?

Can I buy a house in the Caribbean as a foreigner? YES, you can buy a single, multi-family home or land in the Caribbean as a foreign citizen in many countries, though the process and requirements vary depending on the island or nation. This article gives a quick overview of what you as a buyer need to consider:

RELATED: What are the Property Rights in Haiti? Pathways to Land, House, Business Ownership

✅ Popular Caribbean Countries for Foreign Homebuyers

1. Bahamas
   • Foreigners can buy property freely under 2 acres.
   • You must register your purchase with the Investment Board.
   • No income tax or capital gains tax.
2. Dominican Republic
   • Open to foreign buyers with few restrictions.
   • Title transfer through a notary public; legal help is recommended.
3. Barbados
   • Foreigners can buy with permission from the Central Bank.
   • Purchase must be in foreign currency and registered.
4. St. Lucia
   • Requires an Alien Landholding License (can take several months).
   • License needed for land purchases, not condos.
5. Puerto Rico (U.S. territory)
   • No restrictions for U.S. citizens (same rules as U.S. mainland).
   • Tax incentives may apply under Acts 60/20/22.
6. Cayman Islands
   • No restrictions on foreign ownership.
   • High-end real estate market, no property or income tax.
7. Jamaica
   • Foreigners can purchase freely.
   • Lawyer and surveyor highly recommended.

📝 Buy a House in the Caribbean: Key Considerations

• Legal Requirements: You may need government approval, an Alien Landholding License, or to register your purchase.
• Property Taxes & Fees: Some islands have stamp duties, annual taxes, or purchase costs up to 10–15%.
• Financing: Local mortgages can be difficult for non-residents; cash purchases are more common.
• Residency/Citizenship: Buying property may qualify you for residency (e.g., Antigua & Barbuda, Dominica, St. Kitts) but usually not citizenship directly unless part of an investment program.

Before buying or building a house in the Caribbean, be sure to do your research. Seek help finding the best Caribbean country based on your budget, lifestyle, or investment goals. Best of Haiti Real Estate can help with that. Visit out YouTube channel for videos on Caribbean Islands real estate.