Can a foreigner buy a property in Monaco ?

Advantages for foreign investors of buying a property in Monaco

Investing in Monaco real estate offers a mix of financial security, lifestyle benefits, and tax advantages. The Principality is politically stable, safe, and internationally recognized as a hub for wealthy individuals. Property ownership brings both long-term value and unique privileges.

Main advantages include:

• Strong market resilience, with property values remaining stable even during global crises
• High international demand due to limited space, ensuring constant liquidity
• Prestigious lifestyle, combining luxury, safety, and a central location on the French Riviera
• Attractive residency conditions for owners, who can apply for a residency permit after purchase
• Secure legal system, ensuring property rights are fully protected
• Rental opportunities, as properties can be rented at high rates to international clients

For many investors, buying in Monaco is not only a financial decision but also a way to secure a place in one of the most exclusive real estate markets in the world.

How to find the right property in Monaco?

The Monaco property market is small and extremely competitive, with limited listings available at any given time. Properties are sold quickly, prices differ between districts such as Monte-Carlo, Fontvieille, or Larvotto, and many properties are never advertised publicly. Navigating this market without assistance can be difficult for a foreign buyer.

Working with a trusted real estate agency ensures access to the best opportunities and professional support through every step of the process. Balkin - Knight Frank Monaco is one of the leading agencies specialized in Monaco’s luxury property market. The firm offers:

• Tailored searches, adapted to your budget, lifestyle, and investment goals
• Exclusive listings, including off-market properties not visible to the public
• Negotiation support, ensuring you pay the right price in a competitive market
• Administrative guidance, covering notarial procedures, financing, and registration duties
• Confidential service, respecting your privacy at every stage of the transaction

With Balkin, you gain both market insight and local connections, two elements that make a decisive difference in Monaco. Whether you are buying a pied-à-terre, a family property, or a luxury residence, expert advice allows you to secure the right property in a market where opportunities are rare.

Taxes & costs associated with buying a property

Buying a property in Monaco involves transaction costs that you must plan for in addition to the property price. There are no recurring annual property or residence taxes, but the initial purchase comes with the following charges:

• Registration duties, usually between 4.5% and 7.5% depending on the transaction type
• Notary fees, around 1.5% of the property price
• Agency fees, generally 3% + VAT, paid by the buyer
• Building maintenance charges, which vary depending on the services offered (security, concierge, pool, parking, etc.)
• Home insurance, required for owners and calculated according to the value of the property

These one-time costs make the entry ticket high, but the absence of annual property-related taxes helps balance the long-term expenses.

How to reside in Monaco after buying a property?

Purchasing a property in Monaco does not automatically grant residency, but it strongly supports your application. To live in the Principality, you must prove that you have stable accommodation, sufficient financial resources to support your lifestyle, and a clean criminal record.

Owning a property is considered solid proof of commitment, making the residency process smoother. Once your application is accepted, you receive a residence card, which must be renewed periodically. Living in Monaco then gives you access to the country’s security, services, and tax advantages.

Is real estate in Monaco a good investment?

Yes, real estate in Monaco is a good investment. The market is unique in the world because it combines scarcity, stability, and strong international demand. Prices have shown resilience even during global financial downturns, making property in Monaco a safe asset.

Arguments in favor of investing in Monaco:

• Limited supply due to the small size of the Principality, keeping demand consistently higher than availability
• No property tax or residence tax, reducing recurring costs for owners
• Rental profitability, as properties are rented at premium prices to an international clientele 
• Stable political and legal environment, guaranteeing long-term security for investors
• International prestige, with Monaco being one of the most exclusive and recognized real estate markets in the world
• Capital protection, as property values rarely depreciate and often increase over time

Investing in Monaco is not only a way to grow your wealth but also to secure it in a market that offers both financial benefits and lifestyle advantages.

‍