Restricted European Property Markets: Foreign Buyers Property Guide for Smart Investment

Frequently Asked Questions
Can non-EU citizens buy property in Croatia?
Yes, but only with a property purchase permit from the Ministry of Justice - available only if the buyer's country has a reciprocity agreement with Croatia. Without one, even apartments are off-limits.
Do non-EU buyers need a permit to buy property in Austria?
In many Austrian provinces (Tyrol, Salzburg), yes. While EU/EEA buyers face no restrictions, non-EU buyers must often secure local authority approval, which includes proving residency intent and sometimes showing integration into the region.
Can foreigners buy property in Switzerland?
Yes, but with strict restrictions under the federal Lex Koller. Here's a sharp summary: Only holiday homes are allowed for non-residents - in designated tourist zones, not urban centers like Geneva or Zurich. A Lex Koller permit is required, with annual quotas limited to ~1,500 properties nationwide, distributed unevenly among cantons. Bottom line: Yes, foreigners can buy - but only in constrained, tourist‑zone holiday homes, within permit quotas and strict size and location rules.
Is it possible for non-EU citizens to own land in Bulgaria?
Not directly. Land ownership Bulgaria for non-EU buyers requires forming a local company. While apartments are freely purchasable, acquiring land or plots involves additional legal steps, company formation, and ongoing tax obligations.
What’s the rule for non-EU buyers purchasing houses in Poland?
Non-EU buyers can generally buy apartments, but houses or land require a permit - known as the Poland house permit - from the Ministry of the Interior. The application must include proof of local ties and financing; failure can lead to voided contracts and lost deposits.