Foreigner Buying Cost Checklist
Foreigners face extra costs beyond a local buyer. Use this checklist so nothing surprises you.
Quick answer
A foreigner's buying costs include the deposit/down payment, MOT/stamp duty (which may be higher for foreigners), any state levy (Penang/Melaka/Johor seed), the state consent fee, SPA and loan legal fees, valuation fee, MRTA/MLTA if financing, RPGT if you sell later, and ongoing ownership costs. All figures are estimates — verify with a lawyer / LHDN / the state authority.
Key takeaways
- Plan for stamp duty, state levy and consent fee.
- Foreigner stamp duty may be higher (seed 8% in 2026).
- Add legal, valuation and MRTA/MLTA if financing.
- RPGT applies if you sell later.
Cost items
- Deposit / down payment.
- MOT/stamp duty (may be higher for foreigners).
- State levy (Penang/Melaka/Johor seed) and consent fee.
- SPA and loan legal fees, valuation, MRTA/MLTA.
- RPGT on later sale; ongoing rates/maintenance.
Checklist
- Budget for stamp duty + levy + consent fee.
- Add legal, valuation and insurance if financing.
- Plan for RPGT if you may sell.
Watch out for
- Foreigner entry costs can be much higher than for locals.
- All figures are estimates — verify before committing.
Frequently asked questions
What extra costs do foreigners pay?
Potentially higher stamp duty, a state levy in some states, and a consent fee, on top of the usual legal, valuation and financing costs. Verify with a lawyer / LHDN / the state.
Do all states charge a foreigner levy?
No — seed references note only Penang, Melaka and Johor. Others do not, but always verify the current state rules.
Related guides
Foreigner Stamp Duty, State Levy and Consent Fee
Three separate charges foreigners often confuse: MOT/stamp duty, state levy and consent fee. Here is how they differ.
Read guideForeigner State Consent Process
Every foreigner purchase needs state consent. Here is how the process works and how long it takes.
Read guideForeigner RPGT (Real Property Gains Tax)
RPGT for foreigners differs from citizens. Here are the seed rates and the verify reminder.
Read guideImportant
This content is for general education only. It is not legal, financial, banking, valuation, tax, investment, or property advice. Always verify with the relevant bank, lawyer, valuer, agent, developer, auctioneer, land office, LPPSA, LHDN, or authority before making decisions.
Last reviewed: 2026 edition · Rules, rates and fees change over time. Always confirm the latest figures with the relevant authority before you act.