How can foreigners own land in Uganda
How can foreigners own land in Uganda ? : Land is currently one of the most marketable and profitable commodities in the economy of Uganda, whether it is for residential purposes or for lucrative business development.According to the 1995 Uganda Constitution article 237 (1). “Land in Uganda belongs to the citizens in Uganda and shall vest in them in accordance with the land tenure systems provided in this constitution”. This prohibits foreigners from buying and owning land in Uganda, they can only own land under a leasehold land tenure system.
A foreigner can acquire leases of the land from the Uganda Government in accordance with the laws prescribed by the parliament, the government grants leases on government owned land through district land boards. Also, Ugandan citizens can grant foreigners leases in their individuals land titles. They are valid from 3 to 49 to 99 years.
Who is considered a foreigner in Uganda?
A person is not resident if they do not meet the parameters of a resident individual or every person not born in Uganda.
Before buying property in Uganda, it is important to do a double check on the exact regulations as the rules about buying a property in Uganda can vary for non – citizens. In general terms, there are no restrictions on foreigners buying property in Uganda.
Depending on where you are hoping to buy a property in Uganda, you may also find that there is an extra fee to pay as a foreigner buyer. You only need to pay your taxes, make sure you get the right professional advice to legally complete your purchase.
Can foreigner own land in Uganda
Yes, foreigners can purchase and possess land in Uganda but only through a leasehold land tenure system.
How A Foreigner Can Acquire Property/Land in Uganda
As a foreigner, to acquire land it is important to understand the legal regulations and limitations on property ownership to avoid scams and unwarranted partnerships with locals.
It is very essential to involve a lawyer in every transaction to conduct title searches and obtain transfer from the Land Registry Office, depending on the speed of the lawyer, the process may take up to 3 weeks but it will ensure a profitable investment in the land.
To establish ownership, having a land surveyor conduct a physical search is recommended
which may incur a fee. If a family owns the land, all family members must agree to the sale to avoid any conflicts. The surveyor also provides insight into the neighbouring properties which can be an important factor for some buyers.The lawyer will then create an agreement based on the terms agreed upon by both parties.Once the agreement is signed, transfer forms will also be filled out and signed.A form of identification such as a passport photo and ID Card will be handed over to prove authorization for the sale, companies selling land should have a registered resolutionauthorising the sale. This should be on file with the registry of companies, if the transfer forms do not have a company seal. It is recommended to take your business elsewhere.
To become a landowner in Uganda, there are several steps to follow as shown below by www.moorlandconsults.com
- A consent form stating the purchase price is signed by a lawyer
- A government valuer will assess the value of the property, a 1.5% stamp duty fee and registration fees for the transfer to required
- If the value of the land exceeds 50 million Ugx, the purchaser must provide their tax identification number from the Uganda Revenue Authority
- All documents are submitted to the land registry for approval and registration.
Once these steps are complete, you can proudly be declared a new owner of land in Uganda.
Can A Foreigner Own Freehold Land in Uganda?
According to the Uganda Constitution of 1995, only citizens of Uganda have the right to
own Freehold and Mailo land. The only way foreigners can own freehold land in Uganda is through a Leasehold Land Tenure System.
The lease typically lasts for 49 to 99 years and can be renewed based on the mutually agreed terms.
