How much land can a dual citizen own in the Philippines?

Land Ownership for Dual Citizens in the Philippines: Navigating Legal Restrictions

Filipino dual citizens are individuals who hold citizenship in both the Philippines and another country. While they enjoy many legal rights and privileges, their ability to own land in the Philippines is subject to certain limitations. Understanding these restrictions is crucial for dual citizens seeking to invest in Philippine real estate.

Residential Land Ownership:

Dual citizens are allowed to acquire residential land in the Philippines for personal use. However, the size of the land they can own is limited to:

• 1,000 square meters (sqm) for urban land
• 1 hectare for rural land

Urban land is defined as land within the boundaries of a city or municipality, while rural land is land outside these boundaries.

Investment Land Ownership:

In addition to residential land, dual citizens can also acquire land for investment purposes. The size of the land they can own for investment is larger than for residential use:

• 5,000 sqm for urban land
• 3 hectares for rural land

To qualify as investment land, the property must be used for a commercial, industrial, or agricultural purpose. The dual citizen must also register the investment with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) or the Board of Investments (BOI).

Limitations and Exceptions:

The limitations on land ownership for dual citizens are intended to balance foreign investment with national land ownership policies. These policies prioritize the availability of land for Filipinos and protect national security.

There are some exceptions to these limitations. For example, dual citizens can acquire land in excess of the prescribed limits through inheritance or donation. However, they must dispose of any excess land within three years of acquiring it.

Legal Process and Requirements:

To acquire land in the Philippines as a dual citizen, the following steps are typically involved:

• Identify and purchase the property within the prescribed size limits.
• Secure a certificate of title from the Land Registration Authority (LRA).
• Register the investment with PEZA or BOI (for investment land).
• Pay the necessary taxes and fees.

Conclusion:

While Filipino dual citizens have the right to own land in the Philippines, their property rights are subject to certain limitations. These limitations aim to maintain a balance between foreign investment and national land ownership policies. By understanding these restrictions, dual citizens can navigate the legal process and acquire land in compliance with Philippine laws.