Buying property in Hainan

en.hainan.gov.cn

Updated: 2025-06-30

Hainan, home to China's largest Free Trade Port (FTP), is increasingly attracting global investors with its tropical allure, dynamic economy and investor-friendly policies.

If you are a foreign national considering buying a home in Hainan, this guide outlines the key policies and procedures you need to know.

[Photo/VCG]

Generally, foreign nationals are subject to the same property purchase restrictions as local buyers, which vary by location.

1. Major cities: Haikou, Sanya, Qionghai (a county-level city)

Purchase quota: Limited to one residential property per family.

Down payment: A minimum down payment of 70 percent of the property's value is required.

Eligibility: Buyers must provide proof of having paid local individual income tax or social insurance for at least 60 consecutive months for apartments in urban areas, or 24 months for apartments in non-urban areas.

Resale restriction: The property cannot be resold within five years of purchase.

These measures are designed to maintain a stable and healthy property market while allowing qualified foreign nationals to invest in Hainan.

2. Core ecological conservation zones: Wuzhishan, Baoting, Qiongzhong, Baisha

Property purchases in these protected areas are restricted to local residents and are currently off-limits to foreign buyers.

3. Other places in Hainan

Purchase quota: Limited to one residential property per family.

Down payment: A minimum down payment of 70 percent is required.

Eligibility: Buyers must provide proof of having paid individual income tax or social insurance in Hainan for at least 24 consecutive months.

Resale restriction: The property cannot be resold within five years of purchase.

Required documents for foreign buyers

1. Valid passport and relevant visas.

2. Proof of no existing property ownership in Hainan (this can typically be applied for at the local real estate transaction center).

Special notes

1. All foreign-language documents must be accompanied by certified Chinese translations.

2. Certain documents, such as income and marriage certificates (especially for mortgage applications without local income proof), may require notarization, either in China or in your home country.

Final tips for a smooth process

1. Seek professional help: Work with a local real estate agent experienced in handling transactions for foreign clients.

2. Plan for time: Allow extra time for document processing and government approvals.

3. Verify obligations: Ensure you fully understand all tax and legal responsibilities before finalizing the purchase.

4. Stay updated: Property policies can change. Always check for the latest regulations from official sources before making a decision.