In This Article
When purchasing property in Tunisia, Tunisians living abroad must comply with certain taxes and fees associated with the purchase and registration process. These taxes are intended to regulate the real estate market and ensure that the state collects its dues. This article outlines the taxes and fees that Tunisians living abroad must pay when buying property in Tunisia.
Key Taxes Tunisians Abroad Need to Know When Buying Property
Types of Taxes and Fees
Registration Tax
This tax is paid when registering the sale contract in the land registry. It is typically 5% of the property’s value.
Value-Added Tax
This tax is imposed on new properties purchased from developers. The VAT rate is 19% of the sale price.
Stamp Duty
This fee is paid when registering the sale contract. It usually amounts to around 25 Tunisian Dinars per page of the contract.
Notary Fees
These are fees paid to the notary who notarizes the sale contract. The fees range from 1% to 1.5% of the property’s value.
Land Registration Fees
These fees are paid when registering the property in the land registry. The fee is approximately 1% of the property’s value.
Procedures for Paying Taxes
Opening a Bank Account
The buyer must open a bank account in a Tunisian bank to transfer funds and pay taxes and fees.
Transferring Funds
Funds are transferred from the overseas bank account to the Tunisian bank account to pay for the property and associated taxes and fees.
Completing the Transaction
After transferring the funds, the purchase transaction is completed and the contract is signed in the presence of a notary.
Registering the Contract
The sale contract must be registered in the land registry, and the required taxes and fees must be paid.
Important Notes
Potential Tax Exemptions
The Tunisian government may offer tax exemptions or fee reductions for Tunisians living abroad, so it is advisable to check the current laws and regulations.
Hiring a Lawyer
It is recommended to hire a lawyer specializing in real estate law to ensure compliance with all legal procedures and correct payment of taxes and fees.
Conclusion
When purchasing property in Tunisia, Tunisians living abroad must pay a range of taxes and fees associated with the purchase and registration process. By following the legal procedures and paying the due taxes, expatriates can safely and reliably buy property in Tunisia.
What taxes do Tunisians living abroad need to pay when purchasing property in Tunisia?
Tunisians living abroad are required to pay property transfer tax, registration fees, and notary fees when purchasing property in Tunisia. The transfer tax is calculated based on the property’s purchase price or market value, whichever is higher.
Are there any tax exemptions for Tunisians living abroad when purchasing property in Tunisia?
While there are no specific exemptions for Tunisians living abroad, there may be certain reductions for first-time buyers or for properties purchased for personal use. It's important to check the current tax regulations for specific conditions.
How is the property transfer tax calculated for Tunisians living abroad?
The property transfer tax is typically a percentage of the property's purchase price or market value, depending on which is higher. The rate may vary depending on the value of the property.
What other fees should Tunisians living abroad expect when buying property in Tunisia?
In addition to the property transfer tax, buyers will also incur notary fees, registration fees, and any applicable administrative fees related to the property purchase and registration process.