Can foreigners buy property in Canada in 2026?

The Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act has barred many non-Canadians from buying certain residential properties (commonly framed as buildings with three or fewer dwelling units) in larger urban areas. Canadian citizens and permanent residents are outside that “non-Canadian” purchase ban. Temporary residents, work-permit holders, students, and foreign corporations may face limits or need a listed exception. Larger multi-unit buildings and some properties outside urban census areas have been treated differently under the regulations.

Finance Canada extended the federal ban’s horizon toward 1 January 2027 after the original two-year window. That date is a policy checkpoint, not a promise that rules stay identical afterward. CMHC’s explanatory pages summarize scope and exceptions; the Justice Laws text is the statute. Confirm both on the day you make an offer.

Even when a purchase is allowed, federal Underused Housing Tax (UHT) filing and liability can apply to certain owners of vacant or underused residential property in Canada. British Columbia and Ontario have also used foreign-buyer or speculation-style taxes and registration rules in periods of policy stress. Those provincial layers change independently of the federal ban. A lawyer or notary (Quebec notaries handle many real-estate closings) must map federal eligibility plus provincial transfer taxes for the exact address.

Buying property does not grant permanent residence or a work permit. Immigration status and ownership are separate systems. If your plan depends on PR, see Get PR card. Many newcomers rent first via How to rent a home while status and financing settle. Mortgage questions live in Foreigner mortgage.

For city cost reality after you know you can buy, compare How much is rent in Canada with ownership carrying costs in Where to live in Canada, Living in Toronto, and Living in Vancouver.