Where Indians Are Buying Real Estate Abroad in 2025 — Top Destinations & What Makes Them Attractive.

Where Indians Are Buying Real Estate Abroad in 2025 — Top Destinations & What Makes Them Attractive

Globally, more Indians are now investing in overseas real estate — not just as a lifestyle upgrade, but also as a way to diversify assets, access global markets, and secure long-term wealth. According to a recent analysis by Trade Brains (Dec 2025), the top 10 countries Indians prefer when buying property abroad combine factors such as stability, rental demand, lifestyle, and ease of purchase.

Here’s a breakdown of each destination, why it appeals to Indian buyers, and what you need to know if you’re considering investing abroad.

🌍 Top 10 Countries Indians Prefer for Real Estate in 2025

Dubai (UAE)

Dubai remains the #1 choice for many Indians — thanks to its tax-free lifestyle, luxury infrastructure, strong rental demand, and relative proximity to India.
Indians can buy freehold property in approved zones without needing residency; purchases can even be done remotely via Power of Attorney and digital registration.
That said, buyers must pay a 4% transfer fee (by the Dubai Land Department) and meet standard KYC and fund-transfer regulations.

Why it matters: For many NRIs and Indians looking for both rental income and potential capital appreciation, Dubai offers convenience + returns + a cosmopolitan lifestyle.

London (United Kingdom)

London’s global prestige, top-tier education, and stable real-estate market continue to attract Indian buyers.
The city offers strong rental demand, transparent legal systems and long-term capital appreciation — features appealing for long-term investors.
Indians can legally buy residential property in the UK, with no residency or citizenship rights attached to ownership.
Note: For foreign buyers, there’s an extra surcharge: a 2% non-resident Stamp Duty surcharge; additional taxes may apply if it’s a second home or investment property.

Why it matters: For buyers looking for stability, global standards, and prestige — whether for personal use, rental income, or long-term investment — London remains top-tier.

Portugal

Portugal draws interest thanks to relatively affordable European real estate, relaxed coastal lifestyle, and growing popularity among expats.
For Indian buyers: foreigners can buy property with no restriction on ownership.
Practical steps include obtaining a Portuguese tax number (NIF) and opening a local bank account — all transactions require promissory contracts followed by a final deed with a notary.

Why it matters: Portugal offers a taste of European living and lifestyle, at comparatively accessible prices — making it appealing for both investors and those seeking a second home abroad.

Singapore

Singapore appeals to Indian buyers for its ultra-stable real estate market, excellent governance, strong rental demand, and overall safety.
Non-residents are allowed to purchase private condos and apartments, but they cannot buy landed property.
There’s also a hefty Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) (currently 60%) for foreigners — a serious cost to factor in.

Why it matters: For those prioritizing stability, low volatility, and long-term wealth preservation — especially in an urban-plus-infrastructure environment — Singapore can be a prudent choice.

Greece

Greece attracts Indian buyers with its Mediterranean lifestyle, scenic coastal towns, and reasonably priced real estate compared to many Western European countries.
Foreign ownership has no restrictions — Indians can freely buy property.
That said, due to changes in investment residency rules (e.g. the discontinued guarantee of “Golden Visa” from standard property purchase), real estate purchase does not automatically guarantee residency or citizenship now.
Buyers must obtain a Greek tax number (AFM), deal with notarial transaction logistics, plus annual property taxes (like ENFIA).

Why it matters: For buyers attracted by lifestyle, tourism-driven rental demand, and long-term capital appreciation in a stable European country — Greece is a compelling option.

Thailand

Thailand offers a tropical lifestyle, affordable condos, vibrant tourism hubs (Bangkok, Phuket, Pattaya, Chiang Mai), and solid rental potential.
Foreign buyers — including Indians — can buy freehold condos, but cannot own land directly. Villas & landed properties require leasehold or company-structure purchases with legal guidance.
Important to be mindful of developer reputation and due diligence, especially with off-plan projects; maintenance and other charges also apply.

Why it matters: For buyers seeking affordable, lifestyle-oriented overseas real estate with good rental demand — especially in tourist zones — Thailand can be attractive.

United States (USA)

The US remains popular due to its strong economy, robust property laws, high rental demand, and potential for long-term appreciation — especially in states like Texas, Florida, California, Arizona, and New York.
Indians can freely buy property — but such purchases do not grant residency or a Green Card.
Buyers should be aware of state-wise property taxes, and rental income is subject to US federal and state taxes. Foreign buyers often need to make larger down payments (30–40%) if using mortgage financing.

Why it matters: For those seeking stable long-term investments, diversification, and exposure to global markets — US real estate offers a strong value proposition.

Canada

Canada attracts Indian buyers for its clean environment, multicultural society, strong education system, safety, and modern infrastructure.
However — as of recent years — Canada has introduced a foreign-buyer ban (2023–2027) restricting non-residents from buying residential property in many urban areas.
Exceptions exist (e.g. for temporary residents, certain visa holders or international students), but property purchase does not grant permanent residency. Buyers should be prepared for extra transfer taxes and local regulations.

Why it matters: For some — especially those planning long-term stays or with a visa status — Canada still represents a high-quality, stable market. But regulatory constraints mean due diligence is essential.

Australia

Australia appeals to Indian buyers for its high quality of life, good education system, stable economy, and clean, well-planned cities.
But note: foreigners can only buy new-build properties, off-plan units, or land for construction — not pre-owned or existing homes.
All foreign purchases must be approved by the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB); there are fees, stricter regulations, and often higher stamp duties.

Why it matters: For investors or buyers willing to navigate regulatory requirements — especially for new developments — Australia offers a stable, regulated foreign-property market.

Malaysia

Malaysia remains attractive due to its affordable real estate, multicultural environment, and growing modern cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru.
Foreigners can legally buy property, though states impose a minimum purchase value (often RM 1 million). Buyers may get freehold or leasehold units depending on the development.
While property purchase doesn’t grant automatic residency, Malaysia offers long-stay schemes like Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) for qualified buyers — a potential advantage for those seeking extended stays.

Why it matters: For buyers looking for affordable overseas real estate in Asia — with a mix of modern infrastructure, decent lifestyle, and stable investment potential — Malaysia can be a good fit.

✅ Why More Indians Are Going Global for Real Estate

There are solid reasons driving this overseas investment trend:

Diversification & Wealth Preservation: International real estate offers a hedge against rupee devaluation and uncertain domestic economic cycles. Many global markets provide stability, predictable appreciation, and long-term value.
Strong Rental Demand & Capital Appreciation: Major global cities and popular tourist destinations — like Dubai, London, Greece, Singapore — attract continuous rental demand and long-term buyer interest, making them attractive for both rental income and resale value.
Lifestyle & Global Exposure: For Indians — especially NRIs or those planning international mobility — owning property abroad offers access to global standard of living, better infrastructure, quality education, and a cosmopolitan lifestyle.
Relative Ease of Purchase (in Many Destinations): Several countries on the list allow foreigners to buy property with minimal restrictions — often only requiring documentation, bank accounts, and due diligence — making the process smoother.

⚠️ What to Keep in Mind Before Buying Abroad

Buying real estate in a foreign country isn’t just about the glamour or the price tag — it comes with its own caveats:

Legal & Regulatory Differences: Every destination has different laws around foreign ownership, taxes, stamp duties, residency/visa rights, restrictions on land vs apartments, and requirements for property use. Always verify local laws.
Taxes, Transfer Fees & Additional Costs: Many places impose extra duties for foreign buyers (stamp duties, higher VAT/transfer fees, buyer’s stamp duty, annual property taxes, maintenance costs).
No Automatic Residency or Citizenship: Ownership generally does not guarantee residency — buying a property ≠ getting PR or citizenship.
Financing, Exchange Rate & Currency Risk: Foreigners often need to pay larger down payments; mortgages can be harder or costlier. Currency fluctuations (INR vs foreign currency) can affect cost & returns.
Due Diligence is Crucial: Especially in developing or high-tourism markets — ensure the developer’s credibility, legal clearance, building approvals, local taxes, and resale potential before you invest.

🧭 How to Choose the Right Destination Based on Your Goals

Your Goal / Priority	Best Destination(s)
Strong rental yield + cosmopolitan lifestyle + easy access from India	Dubai, Singapore, Malaysia
Stable long-term capital appreciation + prestige + global mobility	London, USA, Australia
Affordable European lifestyle + good value buy + relaxed living	Portugal, Greece
Tropical lifestyle, affordable condos, vacation-style properties	Thailand, Malaysia, Dubai
Balanced mix: safety, stability, rental demand, good governance	Singapore, Canada (where possible), Australia

✍️ Final Thoughts

Investing in overseas property is more than just buying a house abroad — it's about planning for long-term wealth, diversification, lifestyle, and global exposure. For Indian investors in 2025, destinations from Dubai to Greece to Singapore offer varied advantages depending on priorities: rental yield, capital appreciation, lifestyle, or migration prospects.

That said — it’s never a one-size-fits-all decision. Legalities, taxes, residency implications, and market cycles vary widely. If you’re seriously considering investing abroad, treat it like a major financial decision: research thoroughly, maybe consult legal/financial experts abroad, and align your purchase with your long-term goals (investment, migration, rental income, retirement, holiday home, etc.).