Ukraine

STEPS
Check Eligibility
- Non-Residents: Foreigners can buy property in Ukraine without significant restrictions. However, only Ukrainian citizens and legal entities can own agricultural land.
- Financing: Mortgages for foreign buyers are rare, so most transactions are completed in cash or via international bank transfers.
Determine the Budget
- Budgeting: Consider the cost of the property, taxes, notary fees, and additional expenses such as renovations, registration, and legal services.
- Payment Process: Property transactions are typically completed in the local currency (UAH), and payments must often be made through a Ukrainian bank account.
Find a Property
- Online Search: Use real estate platforms such as OLX.ua, DOM.RIA.com, and Lun.ua to explore available properties.
- Real Estate Agents: Engaging a licensed real estate agent can help navigate the local market, avoid scams, and handle negotiations.
View the Property
- Inspections: Conduct a thorough inspection of the property to check for structural issues, outstanding utility debts, and potential legal encumbrances.
- Visiting the Property: If unable to visit in person, arrange for a trusted representative or lawyer to inspect the property on your behalf.
Verify Legal Documents
- Ownership Verification: Ensure that the seller is the legal owner of the property by checking the State Property Register.
- Encumbrances and Debts: Confirm that there are no outstanding debts, mortgages, or legal disputes attached to the property.
Make an Offer and Sign a Preliminary Agreement
- Negotiation: Buyers and sellers typically negotiate price and payment terms before signing an initial agreement.
- Deposit: A preliminary contract (preliminary sale-purchase agreement) may require a deposit, usually around 10% of the property price.
Complete the Sale and Legal Formalities
- Notary Role: The final sale agreement must be notarized by a Ukrainian notary, who ensures the legality of the transaction.
- Payment and Transfer: The final payment is typically made via a Ukrainian bank, and the notary facilitates the legal transfer of ownership.
Register the Property
- State Registration: The new owner must register the property with the Ukrainian State Property Register to finalize ownership.
- Utility Transfers: Ensure that utility accounts are transferred to the new owner’s name.
Move In
- After completing all legal and administrative requirements, the property is ready for occupation.
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS
- Legal Assistance: Hiring a lawyer experienced in Ukrainian real estate law is highly recommended to avoid potential legal issues and ensure a secure transaction.
- Currency Restrictions: Ukraine has strict financial regulations, and large transactions must comply with the National Bank of Ukraine’s currency control policies.
- Property Market Risks: Due diligence is crucial, as property scams and legal disputes over ownership are relatively common in Ukraine.
ADDITIONAL NOTICES
- Notary Role: A licensed notary is required to finalize the property transaction and register the sale in the Ukrainian State Property Register.
- Property Ownership Restrictions: Foreigners cannot own agricultural land in Ukraine, but they can purchase apartments, houses, and commercial properties without restrictions.
- Tax Considerations: Property buyers may be subject to additional taxes and fees, including property transfer tax and state duties.

In Ukraine, real estate taxes are regulated by the central government and local municipalities. The key types of taxes related to real estate in Ukraine include:

Property Ownership Tax

Real Estate Tax (Податок на нерухоме майно): Real estate tax in Ukraine applies to both residential and non-residential properties, with the tax rate varying depending on the property's location, type, and purpose.

  • For residential properties, the tax is calculated based on the size of the property, usually per square meter of living space.
  • The tax rate for residential properties is typically 1.5% of the minimum wage per square meter, which is updated annually. For 2024, this is approximately UAH 60 per square meter.
  • For non-residential properties, the tax rate can be higher, with a maximum of 3% of the minimum wage per square meter, depending on the municipality.
  • The tax is usually paid annually and is the responsibility of the property owner.
Real Estate Transfer Tax

The real estate transfer tax applies when the ownership of a property is transferred, such as during a sale or inheritance.

  • The standard real estate transfer tax rate is 1% of the property's sale price or market value, whichever is higher.
  • The transfer tax is typically paid by the buyer, but the parties may agree to a different arrangement.
  • There are exemptions for properties inherited or transferred within the immediate family (such as between spouses or children).
Capital Gains Tax on Real Estate

Capital gains tax is applicable when a property is sold at a profit, though exemptions may apply for properties that were the primary residence of the seller.

  • The general capital gains tax rate on real estate sales is 18% of the profit made from the sale (the difference between the sale price and the purchase price).
  • If the property has been owned for more than 3 years, the sale may be exempt from capital gains tax.
  • Properties that were used as the seller's primary residence for at least 3 years are also exempt from capital gains tax.
Inheritance and Gift Tax

Ukraine does not currently have an inheritance or gift tax, but there are tax implications when property is sold after inheritance or gifting.

  • While there is no inheritance or gift tax, any capital gains tax may apply if the property is sold after it is inherited or received as a gift.
Municipal Tax

Some municipalities in Ukraine impose additional local taxes or fees related to property ownership, such as for waste disposal or property maintenance services.

Income Tax on Rental Income

If rental income is generated from real estate, it is subject to income tax, which is generally applied at the individual tax rate.

  • Rental income is subject to a flat tax rate of 18%, which is part of the personal income tax rate in Ukraine.
  • Property owners may be able to deduct certain expenses related to the property, such as maintenance costs and property management fees, from their taxable rental income.
Note: Tax rates and regulations can vary by municipality and may be subject to change. It is recommended to check with local authorities or consult a tax professional for the most up-to-date information.
Official
Ukraine
CIOC
UKR
Subregion
Eastern Europe
Borders
BLR
HUN
MDA
POL
ROU
RUS
SVK
Capital
Kyiv
Area
603 500 km²
Population
44 135 000
Timezones
UTC+02:00
Phone
+380   
Currencies
Ukrainian hryvnia (UAH ₴)