Singapore's government has confirmed that Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) rates will remain unchanged, keeping the 60% rate for foreign purchasers firmly in place. The decision signals that authorities are not ready to loosen cooling measures even as global interest rate pressures begin to ease.
What the current rates mean
For foreign buyers, the 60% ABSD effectively means paying close to double the property's sticker price when all-in costs are factored in. For Singapore Permanent Residents purchasing a second property, the rate sits at 30%. Singapore Citizens buying a second home face 20% ABSD.
Foreigners: 60% | PRs (2nd property): 30% | Citizens (2nd property): 20%
What this means for buyers
For those considering a purchase in Singapore's prime districts, the message from the government is clear: the cooling measures are structural, not temporary. Buyers who are planning around an eventual ABSD reduction may be waiting a long time.
That said, the market continues to see genuine demand from high-net-worth individuals and families who view Singapore property as a long-term wealth preservation strategy — ABSD-inclusive. For this segment, the key is finding the right unit at the right price, not waiting for policy to shift.
If you'd like to discuss how the current policy environment affects your buying or selling position, feel free to reach out directly.
Have questions about how this affects you? Let's talk.