ABSD explained for Singapore property buyers
September 20, 2025 · HOS Editorial
Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty is the single biggest variable in a foreign or multi-property buyer’s total outlay. A plain-language walk-through.
The Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) is a tax levied on residential property purchases in Singapore, on top of the standard Buyer’s Stamp Duty (BSD). The amount depends on the buyer’s residency status and the number of residential properties they already own at the time of purchase.
Current ABSD rates
- Singapore citizens: 0% on first property, 20% on second, 30% on third onwards
- Singapore permanent residents: 5% on first, 30% on second, 35% on third onwards
- Foreigners: 60% on any residential purchase
- Entities (companies, trusts): 65% regardless of existing property count
ABSD is paid on the higher of purchase price or market value, and is due within 14 days of the option exercise date (if exercised in Singapore).
Common scenarios
A Singapore PR couple purchasing their first home together pays 5% ABSD on the ownership share held by the PR. An SC–PR joint purchase where both are first-time buyers can qualify for an ABSD remission under the 2023 rules if specific conditions are met; speak to a CEA-registered agent for the current guidance.
Foreign buyers from countries with Free Trade Agreements (currently: USA, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland) are treated as Singapore citizens for ABSD purposes. This is the primary mechanism behind the visible US-buyer activity in the prime districts.
Official rates and remission conditions are maintained by IRAS. Always verify against IRAS before committing.