Can Foreigners Buy Property in Boracay? A 2025 Guide
Published: July 2025 | Boracay Real Estate Insights
Boracay isn’t just a dream vacation spot — it’s also one of the most desirable places to buy property in the Philippines. But if you're a foreigner, the rules can be confusing.
Can you buy land? What about a house? A condo? This guide explains what foreigners can and cannot buy in Boracay — and how to do it legally in 2025.
Explore available properties: See properties for sale in Boracay
Your comprehensive guide to Boracay real estate.
Section 1: Can Foreigners Own Land in Boracay?
The short answer: No, foreigners cannot own land in the Philippines directly, including in Boracay.
However, there are two legal alternatives:
Understanding legal pathways for foreign ownership.
- Lease land long-term — Up to 50 years, renewable for 25 more
- Own land through a Philippine-registered company — As long as 60% is Filipino-owned
These are standard practices and used by thousands of expats and investors.
Section 2: What Can Foreigners Buy?
Learn more about the buying process: Guide to Buying Property in Boracay: How to Legally Purchase Real Estate on the Island
| Asset | Ownership Allowed? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Land | ❌ Not directly | Lease or corporation required |
| Condo | ✅ Yes | Up to 40% of any building/project |
| House (building only) | ✅ Yes | You can own the structure, lease the land |
| Commercial unit | ✅ Yes | Same rules as above |
| Corporation | ✅ Partially | Foreigners can own up to 40% of a PH-based corporation |
Need to create a corporation?
Our team can assist you with the process. Learn more about our services:
Boracay.house Services →Section 3: Most Common Options for Foreign Buyers
- ✔️ Buy a condo
- Full legal ownership
- Ideal for rentals or vacation use
- Link: See condos for sale in Boracay →
- ✔️ Buy a house and lease the land
- You own the building
- Land lease must be notarized and registered
- Link: See houses for sale →
- ✔️ Form a corporation
- Requires Filipino partners
- Good for commercial property or development projects
- Legal support is a must
Section 4: Tips to Stay Safe Legally
❗ Always work with:
- A local lawyer familiar with land and condo law
- A licensed broker or direct seller
- A title-checking service for clean ownership
🚫 Avoid:
- Verbal lease agreements
- Paying full price before due diligence
- “Foreigner-owned” land promises — it’s likely illegal
Ensure all agreements are properly documented.
Section 5: FAQs
Common questions about foreign property ownership in Boracay.
- Can I buy a house and lot in Boracay as a foreigner?
You can own the house, but not the land — you must lease it or buy via a corporation. - Can I buy land in my Filipino spouse’s name?
Yes, but it’s considered their asset — not marital property. - How long can I lease land?
Legally up to 50 years, renewable for 25. Must be notarized and registered. - Is it legal to rent out my property?
Yes — if zoning allows it. Many condos and homes are Airbnb-ready. - Can I buy with a retirement visa?
Yes, but ownership rules are the same — the visa does not change land restrictions.
📩 Thinking of buying property in Boracay?
We help foreigners buy safely — with legal guidance, verified listings, and personal advice from a team based on the island.
