The “hardest” country for foreigners, including Americans, to buy property usually depends on strict laws, bureaucracy, or government restrictions on foreign ownership. Some of the toughest countries include:
| Country | Why it’s difficult |
|---|---|
| Switzerland | Strict restrictions for non-residents; many cantons require special permits; luxury property heavily regulated. |
| Singapore | Foreigners can buy only certain types of properties (e.g., condos) and face heavy taxes and approval requirements. |
| Denmark | Non-EU citizens need government approval, which is rarely granted unless you have a permanent residence. |
| New Zealand | Most residential property purchases by foreigners require special consent; rules tightened recently. |
| Thailand | Foreigners can’t own land outright (only condos with restrictions); leaseholds or company ownership needed. |
| India | Foreigners generally cannot buy residential property unless they have certain visas or meet strict regulations. |
| China | Foreigners must work or study in China for at least a year before buying, and can only buy one property. |
💡 Tip: If your goal is to invest or buy abroad, look for countries with clear rules for foreigners—otherwise, you could face months of red tape or outright rejection.
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