{"id":10128,"date":"2025-03-17T11:26:07","date_gmt":"2025-03-17T15:26:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/?p=10128"},"modified":"2025-11-19T13:50:20","modified_gmt":"2025-11-19T18:50:20","slug":"buying-residence-non-citizen-non-resident","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/en\/blog\/real-estate-purchase\/buying-residence-non-citizen-non-resident\/","title":{"rendered":"Buying a Residence in Quebec as a Non-Citizen or Non-Resident"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Buying a residence in Quebec as a non-citizen or non-resident can be an <strong>excellent opportunity<\/strong> for investment and stability. However, following recent legislative changes, it is crucial to understand each <strong>step of the process<\/strong> to successfully carry out your real estate project. In this article, we will discuss the <strong>legal restrictions<\/strong>, the <strong>specific taxes<\/strong> for non-citizens, the <strong>financing conditions<\/strong>, the <strong>role and benefits<\/strong> of working with a real estate broker, and the <strong>essential steps<\/strong> to purchase a residence in Quebec. We will also offer <strong>practical tips<\/strong> and a <strong>FAQ<\/strong> to answer the most common questions.<\/p>\n<p><!-- CLICKABLE INDEX --><\/p>\n<h2>Index<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"#section1\">1. Legal restrictions and exceptions (Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property)<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#section2\">2. Taxes and fees for non-citizens in Quebec<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#section3\">3. Financing for a non-citizen: what you need to know<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#section4\">4. Why hire a real estate broker?<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#section5\">5. Essential steps to successfully complete your purchase<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#section6\">6. Practical tips for non-citizens<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#conclusion\">Conclusion: an accessible project with proper preparation<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#faq\">FAQ: Your frequently asked questions<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<h2 id=\"section1\">1. Legal restrictions and exceptions (Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property)<\/h2>\n<p>Since January 2023, the <strong>Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act<\/strong> limits access to certain properties for non-citizens. Despite these restrictions, there are several <strong>exceptions<\/strong> that still allow you to acquire a residence in Quebec as a non-resident:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Temporary residents<\/strong>: Holders of a valid work permit can buy a property, subject to certain conditions (permit duration, intention to reside, etc.).<\/li>\n<li><strong>International students<\/strong>: If they meet specific criteria, such as the length of their studies and the status of their permit, they can be exempt from the prohibition.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Rural areas<\/strong>: Some properties located outside major urban centers or in <em>rural zones<\/em> may remain accessible, since the law primarily targets high-density areas.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\u27a1 <strong>Learn more: <a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/p-25.2\/page-1.html\">See the official details of the law<\/a><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/laws-lois.justice.gc.ca\/eng\/acts\/p-25.2\/page-1.html\">.<\/a><\/p>\n<p><!-- OPTIONAL\/USEFUL TABLE EXAMPLE --><\/p>\n<p>For a quick overview of the different exceptions and the required criteria, here is a summary table:<\/p>\n<p><!-- THICKER TABLE + MARKED HEADER --><\/p>\n<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse; border-spacing: 0; width: 100%; border: 2px solid #000;\">\n<thead style=\"background-color: #f4f4f4;\">\n<tr>\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #000; padding: 10px; text-align: left; font-weight: bold;\">Category<\/th>\n<th style=\"border: 1px solid #000; padding: 10px; text-align: left; font-weight: bold;\">Description of the Exception<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000; padding: 10px; text-align: left;\">Temporary Residents<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000; padding: 10px; text-align: left;\">Valid work permit and specific conditions (duration, intention to reside, etc.)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000; padding: 10px; text-align: left;\">International Students<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000; padding: 10px; text-align: left;\">Student status, minimum length of studies, extended residence authorization<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000; padding: 10px; text-align: left;\">Rural Areas<\/td>\n<td style=\"border: 1px solid #000; padding: 10px; text-align: left;\">Low-density localities, often exempt from the prohibition to encourage regional development<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2 id=\"section2\">2. Taxes and fees for non-citizens in Quebec<\/h2>\n<p>When <strong>buying property in Quebec<\/strong> as a non-citizen, you must anticipate several <strong>additional fees<\/strong>. Beyond the cost of the property itself, plan for:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Real estate transfer duties<\/strong> (often referred to as the \u201cwelcome tax\u201d): Mandatory for all buyers, these duties vary according to the property\u2019s value and the municipality.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Foreign buyer tax<\/strong>: Although rare and limited to specific regions (e.g., Vancouver in other provinces), it is important to verify whether this tax applies based on the <em>exact location<\/em> of the residence in Quebec.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Notary fees<\/strong>: Notarial services are essential to validate the deed of sale. Costs may differ from one notary to another.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Inspection fees<\/strong>: A professional inspection is strongly recommended to assess the building\u2019s condition and negotiate the price if repairs are necessary.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Tip:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/en\/advices\/real-estate-purchase-quebec\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Check out this guide on purchase costs<\/a> for better financial planning and to avoid any unpleasant surprises regarding hidden fees and taxes.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"section3\">3. Financing for a non-citizen: what you need to know<\/h2>\n<p><strong>Obtaining a mortgage in Canada<\/strong> as a non-citizen is possible, but the <strong>conditions<\/strong> are often more stringent. Financial institutions want to ensure the borrower\u2019s stability, particularly given the possibility of leaving the country. Here\u2019s what you need to keep in mind:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Higher down payment<\/strong>: It is usually at least 35% of the purchase price. Banks view this requirement as a sign of financial security.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Proof of income<\/strong>: Providing documentation of stable income or substantial financial assets reassures the bank of your repayment ability.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Credit history<\/strong>: Some banks may require a valid credit history in Canada or internationally to assess your reliability as a borrower.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\u27a1 <strong>For more details: <a href=\"https:\/\/hypotheques.ca\/en\/blog\/buy-house-quebec-non-resident\/\">read this article on mortgages for non-residents<\/a><\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/hypotheques.ca\/en\/blog\/buy-house-quebec-non-resident\/\">.<\/a> You\u2019ll find information on the documents to provide and the necessary steps to complete your application.<\/p>\n<h2><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-10125 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-a-darmel-7642199-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"real-estate-broker-st-jerome\" width=\"1707\" height=\"2560\" srcset=\"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-a-darmel-7642199-scaled.jpg 1707w, https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-a-darmel-7642199-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-a-darmel-7642199-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/pexels-a-darmel-7642199-1365x2048.jpg 1365w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1707px) 100vw, 1707px\" \/><\/h2>\n<h2 id=\"section4\">4. Why hire a real estate broker?<\/h2>\n<p>There are many <strong>advantages<\/strong> to working with a real estate broker for a <strong>residence purchase in Quebec by a non-citizen<\/strong>. Indeed, the Quebec real estate market has specific legislative and cultural features that can confuse a foreign buyer. Here\u2019s why a real estate broker can be a <strong>valuable asset<\/strong>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Knowledge of local laws<\/strong>: A broker is constantly trained on new laws and restrictions, including the Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Targeted property search<\/strong>: They find properties matching your requirements and complying with current regulations, saving you precious time.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Negotiation and protection<\/strong>: The broker <em>represents your interests<\/em> during transactions, reducing the risk of costly mistakes and negotiating the best terms.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Tip:<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/en\/residential-real-estate-broker\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Discover our services for buyers<\/a> for comprehensive support suited to your situation, whether you are an international student or a temporary worker in Quebec.<\/p>\n<p><!-- INTERNAL LINK #1 --><\/p>\n<p>If you would like to learn more about the <strong>home-buying process in Quebec<\/strong> and the <strong>steps involved<\/strong>, feel free to check out our dedicated page on <a href=\"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/en\/advices\/real-estate-purchase-quebec\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">our website<\/a> to better prepare for each stage of your real estate project.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"section5\">5. Essential steps to successfully complete your purchase<\/h2>\n<p>Before signing any document, it is important to <strong>plan your approach<\/strong> to ensure you meet all legal and financial requirements. Here is an overview of the <strong>key steps<\/strong>:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Property search<\/strong>: Determine your needs (type of residence, budget, location) and focus on regions exempt from restrictions if you are subject to them. Use online platforms or your real estate broker\u2019s expertise.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Offer to purchase<\/strong>: As soon as you find the ideal residence, submit a formal offer, along with a deposit (often called a \u201cgood faith deposit\u201d). This amount protects the seller in the event of an unjustified withdrawal.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Checks and conditions<\/strong>: The offer to purchase may include certain conditions, such as an inspection, securing mortgage financing, or reviewing legal documents (certificate of location, zoning, etc.).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Closing at the notary\u2019s office<\/strong>: Once all conditions are met, you sign the deed of sale before a notary. This is when you transfer the necessary funds and the property officially becomes yours.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>\u27a1 <strong>Check out this <a href=\"https:\/\/www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca\/consumers\/home-buying\/buying-guides\/home-buying\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">practical CMHC guide<\/a><\/strong> for detailed advice on each step and the documents you need to gather.<\/p>\n<p><!-- INTERNAL LINK #2 --><\/p>\n<p>For more specific information on <strong>closing transactions<\/strong> and <strong>notary fees<\/strong> in Quebec, you can visit this Centris blog dedicated to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.centris.ca\/en\/blog\/finance\/notary-fees-for-buying-a-home?uc=1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">notary fees in Quebec<\/a> to best prepare your file.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"section6\">6. Practical tips for non-citizens<\/h2>\n<p>Mistakes made during a <strong>residential purchase in Quebec<\/strong> can be costly, especially when you are a non-citizen and unfamiliar with the rules. To avoid unpleasant surprises:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Anticipate taxes<\/strong>: Don\u2019t forget to include real estate transfer duties and any specific foreign buyer taxes in your budget, even though they are rare in Quebec.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Research local laws<\/strong>: Before signing a contract, check the municipal and provincial regulations that may restrict your purchase.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Seek professional advice<\/strong>: Beyond a real estate broker, the help of a lawyer specializing in real estate and a financial advisor will <em>secure<\/em> each step of the transaction.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Compare multiple financial institutions<\/strong>: Mortgage rates and down payment requirements vary from one bank to another. Conducting a comparison can save you thousands of dollars.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><!-- INTERNAL LINK #3 --><\/p>\n<p>Additionally, check out my other <a href=\"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/en\/blog\/\">blogs on real estate<\/a> to benefit from a personalized approach tailored to your profile.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"conclusion\">Conclusion: an accessible project with proper preparation<\/h2>\n<p>Despite the <strong>legal restrictions<\/strong> and <strong>stricter financing requirements<\/strong>, <strong>buying a residence in Quebec as a non-citizen<\/strong> is entirely feasible. With <strong>careful planning<\/strong>, knowledge of <strong>laws and taxes<\/strong>, and appropriate <strong>professional guidance<\/strong>, you can confidently carry out your real estate project. Whether you are an international student, a temporary worker, or simply seeking an investment, the Quebec market offers numerous opportunities.<\/p>\n<p>Plan your budget, surround yourself with experts, and stay informed about <strong>legislative changes<\/strong> so you can see your transaction through to success.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2 id=\"faq\">FAQ: Your frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>1. Can a non-citizen buy property anywhere in Quebec?<\/strong><br \/>\nIt depends on the <strong>exceptions<\/strong> set out by the law. Some urban areas may have restrictions, while rural regions remain more accessible.<\/li>\n<li><strong>2. What is the required down payment for a non-resident mortgage?<\/strong><br \/>\nIt typically ranges from <strong>35% to 50%<\/strong>, depending on the applicant\u2019s profile, income, and the financial institution.<\/li>\n<li><strong>3. Does a foreign buyer tax apply in Quebec?<\/strong><br \/>\nCurrently, there is no <strong>specific provincial tax<\/strong> for foreign buyers in Quebec, unlike in certain other provinces. However, always check with local authorities.<\/li>\n<li><strong>4. How much are real estate transfer duties?<\/strong><br \/>\n<strong>Transfer duties<\/strong> depend on the property value and the municipality. They are often calculated on a progressive scale (e.g., 0.5% for the first bracket, then 1%, etc.).<\/li>\n<li><strong>5. When should I contact a notary?<\/strong><br \/>\nThe notary generally gets involved at the <strong>closing stage<\/strong> to draft and witness the deed of sale. However, you may consult them earlier for legal issues.<\/li>\n<li><strong>6. Do I need a lawyer specializing in real estate?<\/strong><br \/>\nAlthough not mandatory, a <strong>specialized real estate lawyer<\/strong> or a financial advisor can help you avoid potential mistakes, especially if you are <em>unfamiliar<\/em> with the Quebec system.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>For any other questions, feel free to <a href=\"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/en\/contact\/\"><strong>contact us<\/strong> <\/a>directly or via our form for personalized assistance.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Buying a residence in Quebec as a non-citizen or non-resident can be an excellent opportunity for investment and stability. However, following recent legislative changes, it is crucial to understand each step of the process to successfully carry out your real estate project. In this article, we will discuss the legal restrictions, the specific taxes for [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":10124,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[33],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-10128","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-real-estate-purchase"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10128","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10128"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10128\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":19644,"href":"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10128\/revisions\/19644"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10124"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10128"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10128"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/samuelj.ca\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10128"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}