Hungary’s academic institutions are popular with international students thanks to high living standards and affordable living costs as well as diplomas recognised around the world.
Prior to 1st July, 2015, foreign nationals were only able to buy one leasehold apartment for their own use for 50 years and with no extension options. The rental of residential property in Vietnam, conveyance by inheritance and donation were prohibited. In addition, at least a year of working experience in Vietnam was required.
Property maintenance expenses in Hungary cost about 1–4% of the property value per year.
Not every Hungarian bank grants loans to non-EU citizens, and some of those that do impose restrictions with respect to property types. For instance, Sberbank Hungary Ltd. offers mortgage loans to foreigners who wish to buy flats and homes in the country’s newly-built and existing property markets.
Austria is part of the Schengen area so non-EU citizens must have a visa or residence permit. The main rules on immigration in Austria can be found in the Settlement and Residence Act (Niederlassungs und Aufenthaltsgesetz).
Buying property in the UK will not help or simplify residence or citizenship applications. The rights, rules and obligations of foreign citizens in the UK, as well as visa and residence permit requirements can be found on the UK Home Office website.
Non-residents can obtain mortgage loans in the United Kingdom on practically the same terms as UK citizens. However, not every UK bank provides loans to non-EU residents. One key advantage of UK mortgages is the relatively small down payment (starting from 20% of the property value). Short loan terms are a key disadvantage (up to five years).
The British real estate market is very diverse and while London is overheating but set for good returns, buyers can also find good deals if they head northwards. Foreign citizens buying property in the UK have the same rights as the British and the whole process only takes 4–8 weeks.
Real estate prices in the United Kingdom (UK) vary greatly across regions. In London, its suburbs and South East England, prices per square metre are much higher than the rest of the country. Prices are relatively low in Scotland and North West England.
Austria is famous for the quality of its secondary and higher education systems. Every year more than 160,000 international students are educated in the country. Most of them come to Austria study in Vienna.
Property expenses in Austria are not particularly high in comparison to other European countries. Essential charges include utilities and taxes while repairs, renovation and insurance depend on the owner’s budget.
Mortgage rates in Bulgaria are higher than in other European countries, and local banks provide relatively small loans.
In Bulgaria, immigration is governed by the law “On Foreign Citizens” (Закон за чужденците в Република България) which defines the rules for visas and residence permits.
Title deed transfer tax in Austria is 3.5% of property value.
Taxes in Bulgaria are relatively low in comparison to other European countries.
It costs about €500–700 per year to maintain property in Bulgaria. These charges include taxes, utility bills, insurance and maintenance services but not mortgage or repair expenses.
Buying property in Bulgaria is quite straightforward. Individuals must present their passport and a legal entity should submit its constituent documents.