A Guide to Owning Property in Zanzibar for Foreigners
Updated: Mar 4
Zanzibar is a beautiful island in Tanzania and owning property there is a dream come true for many foreigners. However, before you can purchase property in Zanzibar, it is important to understand the regulations that apply to foreign ownership of property.
In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to own property in Zanzibar as a foreigner.
Can Foreigners Buy Property in Zanzibar?
Yes, foreigners can buy property in Zanzibar. However, there are certain eligibility requirements that you must meet to purchase property in Zanzibar.
Eligibility Requirements
You must be at least 18 years old.
You must have a valid residence permit.
You must have the means to purchase a property.
You must have an approved business plan.
You must have enough funds to finance the purchase of the property.
What Are the Steps to Follow When Buying Property in Zanzibar?
Step 1: Find a Property
The first step is to find a suitable property to purchase. You can do this by contacting a real estate agent or by conducting your own research online.
Step 2: Draw up a Contract
After you've found a property that meets your needs, you'll need to draw up a contract of sale and purchase. This should include all of the details about the property, including its location, price, and any other conditions that need to be met.
Step 3: Obtain a Certificate of Title
You'll need to obtain a certificate of title for the property from the Zanzibar Lands Office. You can do this by submitting a request to the Land Registrar and paying the required fees.
Step 4: Make Your Payment
Once you've obtained the certificate of title, you'll need to make your payment. This must be done via a bank transfer or through a certified cashier.
Step 5: Register the Property
Once you've made your payment, you'll need to register the property in your name. This can be done at the Land Registry Office or through a qualified lawyer.
Rules to Follow
You must have a valid visa, residence permit, or work permit from the Zanzibar Immigration Department.
You must register the property either with the Zanzibar Land Registry or with the Zanzibar Land and Property Owners Association.
You must pay the appropriate taxes.
You must also obtain a Certificate of Ownership from the Zanzibar Land and Property Owners Association.
You should consider taking out a property insurance policy.
In a recent survey by the Zanzibar Economic Commission, it was found that over 50 percent of foreign property owners in Zanzibar were satisfied with their investments. With the right preparation and research, you too can be part of this growing group of happy property owners.
