International property investment
Buying property outside the UK — or as a non-UK resident buying UK property.
Professional analysis
Consider local ownership restrictions, transaction taxes, rental regulation, currency risk, financing availability, double tax treaties, and UK reporting (overseas income on Self Assessment). Non-UK residents buying UK residential property pay a 2% SDLT surcharge and are taxed on UK rental income (non-resident landlord scheme) and UK property gains. Plotlumen's international research is educational; see the holding-structures module.
Capital requirements
Varies by country; often higher deposits for non-residents.
Cost assumptions to budget for
- Local transaction taxes and notary fees
- Currency conversion
- Local and UK tax compliance
Potential returns
In local currency, subject to FX movements.
Main risks
- Currency
- Legal system differences
- Remote management
- Political/regulatory change
Legal checks
- Local lawyer for title and contracts
Regulatory checks
- UK tax reporting
- Local foreign-ownership rules
Is it suitable?
Often suits
- Investors with local knowledge or advisers
Usually not suitable for
- Anyone relying on unverified overseas promoters
A general guide, not a personal recommendation. Suitability depends on your finances, experience and attitude to risk.
Step-by-step
- Research the country's buying process and taxes.
- Take UK and local tax advice.
- Use the comparison calculator including FX scenarios.
Financial calculations
Investment comparison
- ⚠ Growth assumptions are guesses. Compare under 0% growth too, and weigh risks the numbers don't capture.
Every figure above comes from the assumptions you entered. This is not a valuation, mortgage offer or financial advice.
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Official sources
- Tax on foreign income (GOV.UK)
- Non-resident landlord scheme (GOV.UK search)
- Stamp Duty Land Tax (GOV.UK)
Last reviewed 31 Oct 2026. Rules change — check the source before relying on this guide.
Not advice