Can Foreigners and Temporary Residents Buy Property in Canada Despite The Recent Ban?
With the extension of the Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act through January 1, 2027, a flurry of questions have been raised about who can and cannot buy a home in Canada. This law, specifically aimed at curbing the soaring housing prices across Canada, restricts certain groups from purchasing residential properties but is not as all-encompassing as it might initially seem.
Understanding the Non-Canadians Act
At its heart, the Non-Canadians Act bars foreign commercial enterprises and individuals who are neither Canadian citizens nor permanent residents from acquiring residential properties. This includes a variety of dwellings such as detached and semi-detached houses, rowhouses, condominium units, and similar residences. The escalated housing prices in many Canadian cities prompted this legislative reaction against foreign investors often accused of buying homes but not residing in them.
Who is Exempt From the Property Purchase Ban?
Contrary to what some believe, the Act does not completely seal off property acquisition in Canada to outsiders. It carves out exceptions, allowing the purchase of:
- Recreational properties
- Vacation homes and cottages
- Properties located outside census metropolitan areas
In addition to these, if a non-Canadian is buying a home with a spouse or common-law partner who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, the Act provides allowances for these purchases, even amid situations such as divorce or the death of the partner.
Can Temporary Residents Buy a Home in Canada?
Yes, individuals residing in Canada on a valid study or work permit can navigate around the ban, given they meet certain conditions that typically revolve around their intent to reside and settle in Canada permanently.
For Study Permit Holders
International students eyeing a residential purchase must tick off one of these criteria:
– Have filed all necessary income tax returns for at least the five years prior
– Have been physically present in Canada for at least 244 days in each of the five years before the purchase
– Only buy properties with a purchase price of no more than $500,000
– Not own more than one residential property
Considering the high average house prices in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia, which hover around $800,000, this cap may present a significant limitation.
For Work Permit Holders
Temporary workers have their own set of conditions to fulfill:
– Must have worked in Canada full-time for at least three years within the four years preceding their purchase
– Filed all necessary income tax returns for at least three of the last four years
– Not own more than one residential property
Fulfilling these criteria is indispensable for those wishing to navigate the property purchase landscape as a temporary worker in Canada.
What’s Next for Potential Homebuyers?
If you’re a non-Canadian or a temporary resident looking to buy a home in Canada, knowing the specifics of the Act and understanding your eligibility is the first step. Ensure to keep abreast of any updates to the Act and consider consulting with a real estate expert well-versed in these regulations.
For more authoritative information on immigration and temporary residence requirements, visit the official Government of Canada’s immigration and citizenship page.
In summary, while it might seem like the doors to owning a home in Canada have closed for many, there indeed remain pathways and possibilities. Understanding your status, the property’s location, and meeting the set criteria can make the dream of owning a home in Canada a reality, despite the ongoing purchase ban.
This Article In A Nutshell:
Despite the recent ban on foreign property purchases in Canada, exceptions exist. Non-Canadians can acquire recreational properties, vacation homes, or those outside census metropolitan areas. Temporary residents with valid permits can buy property, subject to conditions. Understanding the Act and eligibility criteria is crucial for potential buyers aiming to own homes in Canada.
— By VisaVerge.com
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