Can Foreigners Buy a House in Uganda?
Uganda is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for foreign investors and diaspora buyers looking to own property in East Africa. With a stable real estate market, affordable property prices, and growing urban centers like Kampala, Entebbe, Wakiso, and Jinja, many people ask:
Can foreigners legally buy a house in Uganda?
The short answer is yes—but with important conditions.
Can Foreigners Own Property in Uganda?
Foreigners cannot own land outright in Uganda, but they can legally own houses and lease land.
Under Ugandan law, land ownership is reserved for citizens. However, foreigners are allowed to acquire leasehold land and own developments built on that land, including residential houses, apartments, and commercial properties.
Learn more from the official authority: Ministry of Lands, Housing & Urban Development.
What Type of Land Can Foreigners Buy?
Foreigners can acquire leasehold tenure only.
✅ Leasehold Land
- Lease periods typically range from 49 to 99 years
- Leases are renewable
- Fully legal and recognized under Ugandan law
- Common for residential estates, apartments, and commercial developments
View available listings: Leasehold Properties for Sale in Uganda
❌ Freehold & Mailo Land
- Reserved strictly for Ugandan citizens
- Foreigners cannot hold freehold or mailo titles in their own names
Legal reference: Land Act of Uganda
Can a Foreigner Buy a House or Apartment?
Yes. A foreigner can legally:
- Buy a house built on leasehold land
- Buy an apartment or condominium
- Invest in commercial buildings
- Own property through a registered company (with legal guidance)
Explore listings:
Houses for Sale in Kampala & Wakiso
Apartments for Sale in Uganda
Can Foreigners Buy Property Through a Company?
Yes. A foreigner may register a Ugandan company and purchase leasehold land or property in the company’s name.
Important: The company must comply with land laws, and freehold or mailo land remains restricted unless legally converted.
Get expert guidance from: Trusted Real Estate Consultants in Uganda
Legal Process for Foreign Buyers
- Property Due Diligence
Verify land title, lease tenure, and registry records.
Uganda Land Registry Services - Sale Agreement prepared by a qualified Ugandan lawyer
- Land Transfer & Registration at the Ministry of Lands
- Payment of Taxes & Fees
Uganda Revenue Authority – Stamp Duty
Risks to Avoid When Buying Property in Uganda
- Buying mailo or freehold land unknowingly
- Fake or duplicated land titles
- Unclear lease terms
- Unregistered brokers
Always work with professionals: Licensed Real Estate Agents in Uganda
Why Uganda Is Attractive for Foreign Property Buyers
- Affordable property prices
- High rental demand in Kampala & Wakiso
- Growing infrastructure and urban development
- Strong demand from expatriates and diaspora buyers
Read more insights: Why Invest in Ugandan Real Estate
Final Verdict: Can Foreigners Buy a House in Uganda?
✅ Yes, foreigners can buy houses and property in Uganda on leasehold land.
❌ Foreigners cannot own freehold or mailo land.
With the right legal support, Uganda offers excellent opportunities for foreign and diaspora investors.
Need Help Buying Property in Uganda?
At VIP Real Estate Uganda, we assist:
- Diaspora clients
- Foreign investors
- First-time buyers
- Corporate property buyers
