This is definitely one of the most often requested questions. Yes, there is an easy answer to this. Even if you do not have Rwandan citizenship, you can purchase property in the country. Even better, it’s actually rather easy and quick. The procedure for transferring property ownership in Rwanda is described below. Foreigners are treated the same as residents or Rwandan citizens.
The five steps of buying a property in Rwanda as a foreigner:
- First and foremost, you must locate a property that you wish to purchase. Our website has a list of available homes for sale in Kigali, and our experts will be pleased to answer any questions you may have.
- After that, the vendor must show confirmation of ownership. We carefully examine the required paperwork from the seller at eMall Property, so you don’t have to be concerned.
- The seller and the buyer then sign an “Agreement of Sale,” with the buyer expecting a modest deposit.
- Then you and the vendor both travel to the local government (“Umurenge”) and turn in this paperwork, as well as a copy of your passport (you have to present the original passport there, a copy is not sufficient). Personal identity and, if appropriate, corporate registration papers shall be shown by the vendors. This starts the process of transferring the property into your name.
- At this stage, the seller will hand over the ownership paperwork to the land officer. It should be noted that the whole payment must be paid by bank transfer before this may be done. If you’re buying a house in your name and your spouse’s name, you’ll need a written, signed, and notarized power of attorney from them if they’re not in the office. This should be accompanied by a copy of their passport and the number indicated in the power of attorney. The local government will review the request and any accompanying paperwork before beginning the process of transferring the property to you. It takes roughly 1-2 weeks to complete the transfer of ownership and obtain the necessary papers. We’ll look into it for you.
This is the procedure for a foreigner purchasing property in Rwanda. If you have any more queries, please contact our staff at +250 788 385 831. We will be delighted to help you!
