If you’re planning to invest or live in Vietnam, understanding your ownership rights and limitations is essential. DHH LAW FIRM provides clear, updated legal guidance under Vietnam’s latest housing and land laws.
1. Can Foreigners Own Houses in Vietnam?
Yes — foreigners can legally own residential properties in Vietnam under the current legal framework. However, Vietnam’s land ownership system is unique: land belongs to the State, while individuals and organizations — including foreigners — can only own houses or use land through specific rights.
Foreign individuals and entities are allowed to:
- Buy and own houses, apartments, or villas in commercial housing projects.
- Lease, inherit, or receive houses through transactions approved by the authorities.
- Own property for up to 50 years, renewable under agreement.
🏡 In short: You can own the house, but not the land it stands on.
2. Legal Conditions for Foreign Buyers
To purchase a home in Vietnam, foreigners must:
- Hold a valid passport and lawful entry into Vietnam.
- Buy property only from approved commercial projects (not from private individuals).
- Ensure the housing project is not located in restricted or defense areas.
- Have all purchase agreements in writing and notarized.
Foreigners can own:
- Up to 30% of the apartments in a condominium building.
Up to 10% of houses or villas within a single residential project.
⚖️ These limits help balance local housing ownership while still encouraging foreign investment.
3. Duration and Renewal of Ownership
Foreign ownership typically lasts 50 years from the date the ownership certificate is issued. This period can be extended upon application if the buyer still meets eligibility conditions.
Foreign-invested enterprises (FIEs) may have longer durations depending on the term of their investment projects.
🕒 The renewal process is straightforward if the property remains compliant with Vietnamese regulations.
4. Restrictions and What Foreigners Cannot Do
While foreigners can own property, some restrictions apply:
- Foreigners cannot own land-use rights; they only own the physical structure (house or apartment).
- Properties cannot be used for resale or subleasing as a commercial business unless licensed.
- Foreigners cannot purchase houses in rural or defense-restricted areas.
- Ownership transfer between foreign individuals is allowed only if both meet eligibility criteria.
🚫 Ignoring these restrictions may result in revoked ownership certificates or financial penalties.
5. How DHH LAW FIRM Helps Foreign Buyers?
Buying property in Vietnam can be a rewarding investment — if done correctly. At DHH LAW FIRM, our experienced lawyers guide foreign clients through every step of the process:
- Verifying property eligibility and developer credentials.
- Reviewing and drafting contracts compliant with Vietnamese law.
- Supporting notarization, tax declaration, and ownership registration.
- Consulting on ownership extensions or property transfer procedures.
✅ We make property ownership in Vietnam transparent, secure, and worry-free.
6. Why Families Choose DHH LAW FIRM?
⚖️ Expert Legal Knowledge: Specialized in real estate and foreign ownership law
🌍 Bilingual Support: English–Vietnamese service to ensure clarity and confidence.
💼 End-to-End Assistance: From property verification to ownership certificate.
🕊️ Peace of Mind: We protect your rights and prevent legal complications
“DHH LAW FIRM handled my housing lease perfectly under Vietnam’s new Housing Law. Highly recommended!” — Client testimonial, 2025.
7. Take Action Now
Vietnam’s housing market is open to foreigners — but with clear boundaries. By understanding what you can and cannot do, and with support from DHH LAW FIRM, you can confidently secure your home or investment in full compliance with the law.
If you’re considering buying property in Vietnam as a foreigner, don’t navigate the legal details alone.
📞 Contact DHH Law Firm Today
🏢 Main Office: 2nd Floor, 829 Huynh Tan Phat Street, Phu Thuan Ward, HCMC
📞 Hotline: +84 89 9352 777 (VN) | +84 89 9351 777 (ENG)
🌐 Website: www.dhhlawfirm.vn
📧 Email: contact@dhhlawfirm.vn
✨ DHH Law Firm – Your trusted legal partner for property ownership in Vietnam
