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Fortunately, not having an EU passport does not restrict buyers from investing in the Alps. In fact, the process can still be straightforward, with international buyers able to access mortgage options through a range of banks and a wide variety of properties available to suit different goals and budgets.
Because regulations differ between countries and even individual resorts, understanding what you are entitled to can feel complicated. Wherever you are from, whether British, American, Australian, from the UAE or beyond, we have broken down the key rules and insights to help you in the process, creating a simple guide.
Switzerland
Can non-EU buyers purchase property in Switzerland?
Yes, non-EU buyers can purchase property in Switzerland under the Lex Koller law, but there are restrictions on where and what you can buy. Purchases are generally limited to approved holiday homes in designated tourist areas, typically with size limits of around 200m² and plots under 1,000m², with rules set at federal, cantonal, and local level. These restrictions do not apply if you are resident in Switzerland, and the limited supply helps support long-term value in the Alpine market.
Can I get a mortgage in Switzerland as a non-EU national?
Yes, Swiss banks do lend to non-resident buyers, but they are quite conservative. If you have strong income, assets, and a straightforward financial profile, financing is possible, although US buyers may face additional banking checks which can limit lender options.
How much can I borrow from a Swiss bank?
Non-resident buyers typically finance around 60%–70% LTV, depending on the type of property. This lower leverage is standard in Switzerland and helps keep borrowing stable long term.
What are typical mortgage interest rates?
Swiss interest rates are one of the lowest in Europe and have averaged around 1.5% over the last decade. Swiss banks offer variable and long-term fixed rates.
Can US citizens buy property in Switzerland?
Yes, US citizens can buy under the same Lex Koller rules as other non-EU buyers. The main difference is on the banking and tax side, where additional reporting requirements can make the process slightly more involved.
What are the tax implications of owning property in Switzerland?
Taxes vary by canton, but generally include annual property or wealth taxes and capital gains tax on sale. The system is predictable, and capital gains tax usually reduces the longer you hold the property.
Can I rent out my property in the Alps?
Yes, many Swiss Alpine properties can be rented out, and a number of developments offer professionally managed rental programmes. Rules vary depending on the property and local regulations.
Are there restrictions on where I can buy in the Swiss Alps?
Yes, foreign buyers are limited to designated tourist zones within certain Alpine cantons. These areas include some of Switzerland’s most established and internationally recognised resorts.
When can I sell my property?
As a non-Swiss buyer, you have to wait 5 years before you are permitted to sell your property unless there are extenuating circumstances. Capital gains tax applies, but it becomes lower the longer you own the property.
What are the buying costs for property in Switzerland?
Buying costs are relatively moderate and usually total around 3%–5% of the purchase price, depending on the canton and that includes taxes, notary, and registration fees.
France
Can non-EU buyers purchase property in France?
Yes, France is one of the most accessible markets in Europe, and non-EU buyers can purchase freely in the French Alps without needing any special approval.
Can I get a mortgage in France as a non-EU national?
Yes, mortgages are widely available to non-residents through French banks. The process is well established, although lenders will look closely at income, existing commitments, and overall financial stability.
How much can I borrow from a French bank?
Most non-resident buyers borrow around 60%–70% of the property value, with lending decisions based primarily on income rather than just assets.
What are typical mortgage interest rates?
As of early 2026, fixed rates are generally in the region of 3.5%–4.5%, depending on the borrower profile and loan structure.
Can US citizens buy property in France?
Yes, US citizens can buy property in France without restriction. The main difference is that financing and tax reporting can be slightly more complex due to US regulations.
What are the tax implications of owning property in France?
Ownership involves upfront purchase taxes, annual local property taxes, and tax on any rental income. Capital gains tax applies on resale, but reduces over time with long-term ownership.
Can I rent out my property in the Alps?
Yes, the French Alps have a strong and well-established rental market, especially for short-term ski lets. Some resorts have introduced local rules, but overall rental is widely accepted.
Are there restrictions on where I can buy in the French Alps?
No, there are no restrictions on where foreign buyers can purchase. You have full access across all Alpine resorts, subject only to standard planning and local regulations.
When can I sell my French property?
You are free to sell at any time. Capital gains tax may apply, although it becomes more favourable the longer you hold the property.
What are the buying costs for property in France?
Costs are typically around 7%–8% for resale properties, covering taxes and notaire fees, with lower costs for new-build developments.
Austria
Can non-EU buyers purchase property in Austria?
Yes, non-EU buyers can purchase property in Austria, but approval depends on the region and how the property will be used. There are still opportunities available, including some rare and more exclusive properties.
Can I get a mortgage in Austria as a non-EU national?
It is possible to get a mortgage in Austria as a non-EU national, and banks do consider strong international applicants. Approval is more selective and typically requires solid income proof and a larger deposit, but financing options are available for well-qualified buyers.
How much can I borrow from an Austrian bank?
Non-residents who are approved typically borrow around 50–70% of the property value, though many lenders prefer lower loan-to-value ratios for non-EU borrowers.
What are typical interest rates?
Mortgage rates generally range roughly from 3.5% to 5% depending on fixed vs variable products, borrower profile, and market conditions tied to European Central Bank rates.
Can US citizens buy property in Austria?
Yes, but US citizens are treated as non-EU buyers and usually require regional approval before purchase, particularly for holiday or second homes in Alpine regions.
What are the tax implications of owning a property in Austria?
Buyers typically pay a 3.5% property transfer tax plus 1.1% registration fees, annual property taxes (which average at 500 EUR), and capital gains tax.
Can I rent out my property in the Alps?
Yes, short-term rental is heavily regulated in many Alpine regions such as Tyrol and Salzburg, and in some municipalities, it is restricted or requires specific permits or zoning approval.
Are there restrictions on where I can buy as a non-EU national?
Yes, Austria has strict regional land laws, and in many Alpine tourism zones non-EU buyers are restricted from purchasing second homes or holiday properties unless specific conditions are met. However, we do have special regions which do allow this.
When can I sell my property?
You can sell at any time, but capital gains tax generally applies, although exemptions may be available if the property qualifies as your primary residence.
