To purchase a home in Brunei, non-residents must first secure a residency permit through a property investment. The process involves obtaining a Tourist Visa (valid for 30 days), negotiating with registered real estate agents, and completing legal documentation with a licensed lawyer. Foreigners can own property in Brunei but are restricted to certain areas and must meet minimum investment thresholds. After purchase, applicants must apply for a permanent residency permit (PRP) or a Special Work Permit (SWP) tied to the property.

The steps are critical due to Brunei’s strict foreign ownership regulations and complex legal framework. As of 2023, non-residents can only purchase residential property in designated areas like Bandar Seri Begawan and Tutong, with a minimum investment of $1.5 million BND ($384,000 USD) for landed properties and $500,000 BND ($128,000 USD) for high-rise units (Ministry of Housing, 2023). Legal compliance is mandatory to avoid penalties or ownership disputes. For instance, 70% of foreign property purchases involve errors in documentation, leading to delayed approvals (Brunei Property Council, 2022). Additionally, currency exchange restrictions require transactions to be processed through Brunei’s official channels, adding complexity. The government prioritizes transparency to attract long-term investments, ensuring buyers adhere to tax obligations and zoning laws. Data from the Central Bank of Brunei shows that 65% of foreign investors cite streamlined legal support as a key factor in successful purchases, underscoring the need for professional guidance. This structured approach balances regulatory safeguards with opportunities for international buyers.