Can Foreigners Buy Houses or Apartments in Kampala Uganda? | Kawe Realtors Guide
Uganda’s property market is booming, and Kampala has become a major investment destination for both local and international buyers. From luxury apartments in Kololo to modern villas in Nakasero, many foreign investors are asking:
“Can foreigners buy houses or apartments in Kampala, Uganda?”
The answer is YES. Foreigners can legally buy houses and apartments in Kampala, provided they acquire the property under leasehold tenure or through a Ugandan-registered company that includes local shareholders.
- Buying Apartments or Houses Through Leasehold
Foreigners cannot directly own freehold or mailo land in Uganda, as those tenure systems are reserved for Ugandan citizens. However, the leasehold system allows foreigners to own property, including apartments, penthouses, villas, and townhouses for a period of 49 to 99 years, with an option to renew.
When a foreigner buys an apartment in Kampala, they receive a leasehold title registered with the Ministry of Lands, giving them full ownership rights over the property during the lease term. This title is secure, transferable, and legally recognized, meaning you can live in, rent out, or resell your property just like a citizen.
Most modern residential developments in Kampala’s upscale neighborhoods such as Kololo, Nakasero, Naguru, Bugolobi, Muyenga, and Bukoto sit on leasehold land, making them ideal for foreign buyers.
- Buying Through a Ugandan-Registered Company
Another legal pathway for foreigners is to form a company in Uganda, either individually or in partnership with Ugandan citizens.
If the company includes Ugandan shareholders, it is treated as a local entity, allowing it to own property under freehold or leasehold tenure.
This structure is especially advantageous for long-term investors, developers, or expatriates planning to build or manage multiple residential units in Kampala. It also allows foreigners to participate in real-estate, commercial, or agricultural ventures more freely.
Why Kampala Is Ideal for Foreign Property Buyers
Kampala offers a mix of security, convenience, and strong returns, ideal for global investors.
Top areas for foreign buyers include:
- Kololo & Nakasero – diplomatic zones with luxury apartments and penthouses.
- Naguru & Bugolobi – modern residential hubs with high rental yields.
- Muyenga & Lubowa – serene hillside neighborhoods with villas and gated homes.
- Luzira & Mbuya – perfect for lakeside living or serviced apartments.
Many of these neighborhoods are close to international schools (KISU, 7 Hills, French School), embassies, UN offices, and major shopping malls like Acacia Mall and Lugogo Mall, making them highly desirable for expatriates and investors alike.
What Foreign Buyers Should Know
- Conduct due diligence to verify the property’s lease term, title, and developer.
- Register your title with the Uganda Land Registry for full legal protection.
- Engage a lawyer and licensed real-estate agency such as Kawe Realtors for professional guidance.
- Pay annual ground rent or condominium fees as required by law.
- You may freely sell, sublet, or transfer the property during the lease period.
Investing With Kawe Realtors
We specialize in helping international clients acquire property safely in Uganda. Whether you’re looking for a luxury apartment for sale in Kololo Kampala or a modern villa in Nakasero, we handle the entire process. From identifying secure titles and negotiating terms to ensuring compliance with Ugandan property law.
Key Takeaway
Foreigners can buy and own houses or apartments in Kampala Uganda through:
- Leasehold ownership – secure, renewable tenure of up to 99 years.
- Partnerships or Ugandan-registered companies – enabling freehold or leasehold ownership.
With expert guidance from us, you can invest confidently in Uganda’s fast-growing real-estate market, one of East Africa’s most stable and promising investment destinations.
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