Swiss Families: Own a Home in Singapore
— Without the 60% Foreign Stamp Duty

With a favorable exchange rate (CHF 1 ≈ SGD 1.60), your Swiss income stretches significantly further in Singapore.
A quality 1-bedroom, 1-bathroom property in a central or city-fringe location starts from S$750,000 — that’s approximately:

• CHF 470,000
• USD 550,000
• EUR 515,000

And with zero ABSD, your capital goes directly into value — not tax.

Truth: While this is true for most foreigners, Swiss citizens are exempt from the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) under the EFTA–Singapore FTA — meaning you pay the same rates as Singapore citizens.

Truth: Singapore is known for its transparent laws, strong legal protection, and a safe, English-speaking property environment — making it one of the easiest and most secure countries for foreign investors.

Scenario:
After years of working abroad in various countries, Mr. and Mrs. Schmid, a Swiss couple, decided to return to Singapore, where they had previously lived and wished to retire. They envisioned purchasing a comfortable condominium to settle down in permanently. Their main concern was the substantial ABSD that typically applies to foreigners, which would significantly impact their retirement savings.

Outcome:
The Schmids were delighted to discover that their Swiss citizenship exempted them from the ABSD on their first residential property purchase in Singapore due to the EFTA-Singapore FTA. This exemption meant they did not have to pay the hefty additional tax, freeing up a substantial portion of their retirement funds. They were able to purchase their ideal retirement home in a desirable neighborhood, using the saved funds to personalize their new space and ensure a comfortable transition back to Singapore.

Key Takeaway:
The Schmids were delighted to discover that their Swiss citizenship exempted them from the ABSD on their first residential property purchase in Singapore due to the EFTA-Singapore FTA. This exemption meant they did not have to pay the hefty additional tax, freeing up a substantial portion of their retirement funds. They were able to purchase their ideal retirement home in a desirable neighborhood, using the saved funds to personalize their new space and ensure a comfortable transition back to Singapore.

Scenario:
Ms. Keller, a Swiss national relocating to Singapore with her family, wanted to purchase a condominium near top international schools. She was worried about the hefty Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) that usually applies to foreigners.

Outcome:
After confirming her Swiss citizenship qualified her for the ABSD exemption under the EFTA–Singapore FTA, Ms. Keller proceeded with the purchase paying only the standard Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD). This saved her tens of thousands in upfront costs, enabling her to invest more in furnishing the home and settling her family comfortably.

Key Takeaway:
Swiss citizens can purchase property in Singapore as if they were locals, enjoying significant savings and smoother financial planning for their family’s future.

Scenario:
Mr. Müller, a Swiss executive, accepted a new leadership position with a multinational corporation in Singapore, necessitating his family’s relocation. He wanted to purchase a spacious apartment for his family near his new office and good schools, but was concerned about the additional costs associated with property acquisition as a foreigner, particularly the ABSD.

Outcome:
Upon confirming that his Swiss citizenship qualified him for ABSD exemption under the EFTA–Singapore FTA, Mr. Müller proceeded with the purchase of a condominium. He only paid the standard Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD), just like a Singaporean citizen. This significant saving allowed him to allocate his finances more comfortably towards the move, including setting up their new home, enrolling his children in international schools, and ensuring a smooth transition for his family into their new life in Singapore.

Key Takeaway:
Swiss citizens relocating to Singapore for work can acquire a residential property without incurring the ABSD, providing substantial financial relief and enabling a smoother, more comfortable resettlement for themselves and their families.