Can foreigners buy property in Quebec?

Who can buy property in Quebec as a foreigner?

Several categories of foreign buyers may be eligible to purchase property in Quebec. These generally include:

• non-residents living abroad
• temporary residents (foreign workers and international students)
• permanent residents
• foreign nationals with a family or spousal relationship with a Canadian citizen or permanent resident

Since January 2023, the purchase of residential properties by non-Canadians has been governed by the Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act, which remains in effect until January 2027. The law primarily aims to limit real estate speculation, while allowing for certain exceptions depending on the buyer’s profile and the type of property..

Do you need to be a permanent resident to buy?

No, you do not need to be a permanent resident to buy a home in Quebec. That said, permanent resident status offers several advantages, including easier access to traditional mortgage financing, fewer legal restrictions and greater long-term stability.

For foreigners who are not permanent residents, accessing traditional bank financing can be more challenging, often due to a lack of Canadian credit history or due to a temporary immigration status. In such a situation, a private mortgage loan can be an attractive option. It offers greater flexibility for foreign buyers by focusing on the value of the property and the overall project rather than immigration status alone..

What rules have been in place since January 2023?

Since January 2023, Canada has implemented a temporary ban on the purchase of residential property by non-Canadians. This measure, in effect until January 2027, mainly applies to properties located in certain urban areas and is intended to protect access to housing.

The ban primarily affects non-residents living abroad who wish to purchase residential property in Canada. However, it is not absolute, and several categories of foreign buyers may still legally purchase property under specific conditions.

Exceptions to the rule: who can still buy?

Certain groups of foreigners may still buy property in Quebec despite the ban, including:

• temporary residents holding a valid work permit, subject to specific conditions
• international students who meet specific eligibility criteria
• the spouse or common-law partner of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• buyers acquiring property for non-residential purposes

Each situation must be assessed individually, as eligibility criteria may vary based on length of stay, permit type and the nature of the real estate project.

Practical steps to buying a home in Quebec as a foreigner

The purchasing process is largely similar to a standard real estate transaction, but it may involve a few additional steps:

1. obtaining a tax identification number from the CRA if required
2. finding a property, usually with the help of a real estate broker
3. submitting a promise to purchase
4. completing a property inspection
5. finalizing financing
6. signing the deed of sale with a notary

While these steps may seem complex, they are well regulated and fairly standardized in Quebec, which provides reassurance to many foreign buyers.

Buying property in Quebec as an American: what to expect

Many American buyers are interested in relocating to or investing in Quebec. For them, essential preparations include opening a Canadian bank account, understanding the central role of the notary, and adapting to differences in real estate practices and financing requirements.

Canadian banks often require a Canadian credit history, which can complicate access to a traditional mortgage during the first years of residence. Alternative or private financing solutions can make it easier to purchase property while establishing financial roots in Canada.

Helpful resources to stay informed

To secure your project, it is recommended to consult reliable and official sources, such as:

• Government of Canada – Immigration and citizenship
• Local municipalities for tax and property regulations
• Real estate brokers and notaries experienced in transactions involving foreign buyers