Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Cameroon Property Pack
Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Cameroon Property Pack
Property financing in Cameroon is available for expats, though it comes with stricter requirements and higher costs than what locals typically face. While several major banks offer mortgage products to foreign buyers, the process requires careful preparation and understanding of local banking regulations.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Cameroon, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
Expats can secure mortgages in Cameroon through major banks like Afriland First Bank and Société Générale, but they typically need a residency permit and local bank account.
Interest rates range from 12% to 19% annually, with down payments between 5% and 30% of the property value, making financing more expensive than in developed markets.
| Requirement | Details for Expats | Typical Range/Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Residency Permit | Usually required for approval | Valid Cameroonian permit |
| Down Payment | Varies by bank and risk profile | 5% - 30% of property value |
| Interest Rates | Higher than local rates | 12% - 19% per annum |
| Loan-to-Value | Maximum borrowing limit | 70% - 95% of property value |
| Repayment Term | Mortgage duration | 10 - 25 years |
| Approval Time | Processing duration | Few weeks to 2 months |
| Mortgage Insurance | Coverage requirement | Mandatory for all borrowers |
Can expats get mortgages in Cameroon?
Yes, expats can obtain mortgages in Cameroon, but the process is more complex than for local citizens.
Most major Cameroonian banks offer mortgage products to foreign buyers, though they apply stricter eligibility criteria and require more extensive documentation. Banks typically view expat applications as higher risk, which translates to more rigorous approval processes and higher interest rates.
As of September 2025, the Cameroonian banking sector has become more open to expat financing, particularly for those with stable local income or established business presence in the country. However, success largely depends on meeting specific residency and income requirements that banks have put in place.
The availability of expat mortgages reflects Cameroon's growing real estate market and the government's efforts to attract foreign investment in the property sector.
It's something we develop in our Cameroon property pack.
What are the specific eligibility requirements for expats to qualify for a mortgage in Cameroon?
Expats must meet several key eligibility requirements to qualify for a mortgage in Cameroon.
The primary requirement is holding a valid Cameroonian residency permit, which demonstrates legal status and commitment to the country. Banks also require proof of stable income that must be domiciled with a local Cameroonian bank, ensuring they can monitor your financial activity and payment capacity.
Opening a local bank account is mandatory, as lenders need to establish your financial presence and track your banking history in Cameroon. Most banks require at least 6-12 months of local banking history before considering mortgage applications. Additionally, expats must provide comprehensive documentation including passport, proof of income, property purchase agreements, and tax clearance certificates.
Banks typically assess your debt-to-income ratio, requiring that your monthly mortgage payments don't exceed 30-40% of your gross monthly income. Some lenders may also require a guarantor who is a Cameroonian citizen or permanent resident.
Credit history from your home country may be considered, but banks place more weight on your financial behavior within Cameroon.
Do expats need a Cameroonian residency permit to apply for a mortgage?
A Cameroonian residency permit is typically required for mortgage approval, though some exceptions may exist.
Most banks consider a valid residency permit as a fundamental requirement because it demonstrates legal status and reduces the risk of the borrower leaving the country unexpectedly. The permit also indicates a longer-term commitment to Cameroon, which banks view favorably when assessing loan applications.
While a few banks may consider applications from non-residents in exceptional cases, having a residency permit substantially increases your approval likelihood and may result in better loan terms. Non-resident applications often face higher down payment requirements and more restrictive lending terms.
The type of residency permit matters as well - temporary permits may be accepted, but permanent residency status typically offers access to better mortgage products and rates.
Banks may also require that the residency permit has at least 2-3 years remaining validity at the time of application to ensure legal status throughout the initial loan period.
What are the minimum income levels required for expats to qualify for property financing in Cameroon?
Minimum income requirements depend on the property value and monthly repayment capacity rather than fixed thresholds.
Banks typically require that your monthly income is at least 3-4 times higher than the projected monthly mortgage payment. For example, if your monthly mortgage payment would be 200,000 CFA francs, you would need to demonstrate monthly income of at least 600,000-800,000 CFA francs.
The income must be stable, traceable, and preferably paid through a Cameroonian bank account. Self-employed expats face additional scrutiny and may need to provide 2-3 years of audited financial statements to prove income stability. Salaried employees typically need 6-12 months of payslips and employment contracts.
Banks also consider other financial obligations when assessing income adequacy, including existing loans, credit card payments, and living expenses. Your total debt service ratio (including the new mortgage) should not exceed 40-50% of your gross monthly income.
Some banks may accept foreign income if it's converted to CFA francs through official channels and can be verified through proper documentation.
Don't lose money on your property in Cameroon
100% of people who have lost money there have spent less than 1 hour researching the market. We have reviewed everything there is to know. Grab our guide now.
Which banks in Cameroon offer mortgage products to expats?
Several major Cameroonian banks provide mortgage financing to qualified expats.
1. **Afriland First Bank** - One of the most expat-friendly lenders with dedicated foreign client services and competitive rates for qualified applicants 2. **Société Générale Cameroun** - Offers comprehensive mortgage products with flexible terms for expats who meet their eligibility criteria 3. **BICEC (Banque Internationale du Cameroun pour l'Epargne et le Crédit)** - Provides mortgage financing with reasonable terms for foreign buyers 4. **Standard Chartered Bank Cameroon** - Caters to expat clients with international banking experience and streamlined application processes 5. **Commercial Bank of Cameroon** - Offers mortgage products though with more stringent requirements for foreign applicantsThese banks typically have English-speaking staff and experience dealing with expat clients, making the application process more accessible. Each bank has different eligibility criteria, interest rates, and loan terms, so comparing multiple options is advisable.
Some banks may specialize in certain expat demographics - for example, those working for multinational companies or in specific industries like oil and gas.
What is the typical down payment required for an expat purchasing property in Cameroon?
Down payment requirements for expats range from 5% to 30% of the property value, depending on various risk factors.
Most banks require expats to make higher down payments than local citizens, typically starting at 10-15% for the most qualified applicants. First-time buyers or those with limited local credit history may face requirements of 20-30% down payment.
The exact percentage depends on several factors including your income level, employment stability, property type, and loan amount. Prime properties in Douala or Yaoundé city centers may require higher down payments due to their value and market volatility.
Some banks offer reduced down payment options for expats with strong employment contracts from reputable companies or those who maintain substantial deposit relationships with the bank. Government employees and employees of established multinational corporations may qualify for more favorable terms.
The down payment must typically be sourced from legitimate, traceable funds, and banks may require documentation proving the origin of these funds.
Are there specific property types that expats can or cannot finance in Cameroon?
Expats can finance most residential property types, but some restrictions apply to certain categories.
Banks readily finance apartments, houses, and townhouses in urban areas like Douala, Yaoundé, and other major cities. Residential properties in established neighborhoods with clear title documentation are typically approved without issues. Investment properties for rental purposes are also financeable, though some banks may require higher down payments for these.
Restrictions often apply to agricultural land, commercial properties, and undeveloped land, which banks consider higher risk. Properties in remote areas or those lacking proper infrastructure may be difficult to finance. Some banks may also restrict financing for properties under construction unless they have proper development permits and established builders.
Beachfront properties and those in tourist areas like Limbe are generally financeable but may require additional due diligence regarding environmental permits and coastal regulations.
It's something we develop in our Cameroon property pack.
How long is the mortgage repayment term available for expats in Cameroon?
Mortgage repayment terms for expats typically range from 10 to 25 years, though terms may be shorter than those offered to locals.
Most banks offer standard terms of 15-20 years for expat borrowers, with some institutions capping foreign borrower terms at 10-15 years due to perceived higher risk. The maximum term often depends on the borrower's age at application, with most banks requiring loan completion before age 65.
Longer terms of 20-25 years are available for younger expats with stable employment and strong financial profiles. However, longer terms result in higher total interest payments, which can be substantial given Cameroon's higher interest rate environment.
Some banks offer flexible repayment schedules that allow for extra payments or early settlement without penalties, which can be advantageous for expats who may receive bonuses or expect income increases.
The chosen term significantly affects monthly payment amounts - a 15-year term versus a 25-year term can double the monthly payment requirement.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Cameroon versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.
What interest rates can expats expect on mortgages in Cameroon?
Interest rates for expat mortgages in Cameroon typically range from 12% to 19% per annum, significantly higher than rates in developed markets.
Most expats should expect to pay rates in the 14-17% range, with the exact rate depending on their risk profile, down payment amount, and relationship with the bank. These rates are higher than what local citizens might receive due to perceived additional risks associated with foreign borrowers.
The rates are influenced by Cameroon's economic conditions, including inflation rates and central bank policies. Fixed-rate mortgages are more common than variable rates, providing payment predictability but locking in the higher cost.
Some banks offer preferential rates to expats employed by multinational corporations or those who maintain substantial deposits with the institution. Government employees and employees of established companies may qualify for rates at the lower end of the range.
These rates make mortgage financing expensive compared to international standards, so many expats consider whether the total cost justifies financing versus paying cash if possible.
Is mortgage insurance mandatory for expats in Cameroon?
Yes, mortgage insurance is mandatory for all borrowers, including expats, when obtaining a mortgage in Cameroon.
The insurance typically covers death and permanent disability, ensuring that the outstanding loan balance is paid if the borrower cannot continue payments due to these circumstances. This protection benefits both the borrower's family and the lending bank.
Insurance premiums are usually added to the monthly mortgage payment and can range from 0.3% to 0.8% of the loan amount annually. The exact premium depends on the borrower's age, health status, occupation, and coverage amount.
Some banks partner with specific insurance companies and may require borrowers to use their preferred providers, while others allow borrowers to choose from approved insurers. The insurance policy must be maintained throughout the entire loan term.
Additional insurance covering property damage (fire, flood, etc.) may also be required, especially for properties in areas prone to natural disasters or high-value properties.
What is the maximum loan-to-value (LTV) ratio for expat mortgage borrowers in Cameroon?
The maximum LTV ratio for expat borrowers typically ranges from 70% to 95% of the property value, though most banks are conservative with foreign applicants.
| Borrower Profile | Maximum LTV Ratio | Typical Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| High-income expat with permanent residency | 85% - 95% | Strong employment, substantial down payment |
| Employed expat with temporary residency | 75% - 85% | Stable job, good banking history |
| Self-employed expat | 70% - 80% | Proven income, longer banking relationship |
| First-time expat buyer | 70% - 75% | Higher down payment, additional documentation |
| Investment property purchase | 65% - 75% | Lower LTV due to investment risk |
Most expats should realistically expect LTV ratios in the 70-80% range, meaning they'll need to provide 20-30% as down payment. Higher LTV ratios are reserved for the most qualified applicants with strong financial profiles and established relationships with Cameroonian banks.
The LTV ratio directly affects the down payment requirement and overall loan risk assessment by the bank.
How long does the approval process take for expats applying for a mortgage in Cameroon?
The mortgage approval process for expats typically takes from a few weeks to two months, depending on application completeness and bank efficiency.
Well-prepared applications with complete documentation can be processed in 3-4 weeks, while complex cases or those requiring additional verification may take 6-8 weeks. The timeline often depends on how quickly the applicant can provide required documents and respond to bank requests for additional information.
Initial pre-approval or preliminary assessment can often be completed within 1-2 weeks, giving applicants an indication of likely approval and loan amount. Final approval requires property valuation, legal verification, and committee review, which adds to the overall timeline.
Banks may expedite applications for expats with existing banking relationships or those referred by corporate partners. Having all documentation properly translated, notarized, and apostilled beforehand can significantly reduce processing time.
It's something we develop in our Cameroon property pack.
What documents are required for an expat to apply for a mortgage in Cameroon?
Expats must provide comprehensive documentation covering identity, residency, income, and property details.
**Essential Documents Required:** 1. **Valid passport or national ID** - Must have sufficient validity remaining 2. **Cameroonian residence permit** - Valid and current permit showing legal status 3. **Proof of income** - Recent salary slips, employment contract, and bank statements (typically 6 months) 4. **Local bank account details** - Account statements showing financial activity in Cameroon 5. **Property documentation** - Title deed, sales agreement, survey plan, and property valuation 6. **Tax clearance certificate** - Demonstrating compliance with Cameroonian tax obligations 7. **Proof of down payment** - Bank statements or certified funds showing source of down payment 8. **Insurance policy documentation** - Mortgage and property insurance arrangements 9. **Apostilled and translated documents** - Foreign documents must be properly certified and translated to FrenchSome banks may require additional documents such as employer references, audited financial statements for self-employed applicants, or guarantor information. Having all documents prepared in advance significantly speeds up the application process.
Banks typically verify employment and income information directly with employers, so providing accurate contact information and authorization for verification is important.
Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
Expat mortgage financing in Cameroon is achievable but requires careful preparation and realistic expectations about costs and requirements.
Success depends largely on meeting residency requirements, demonstrating stable local income, and working with experienced banks that understand expat needs and the local regulatory environment.
Sources
- TheAfricanVestor - Cameroon Real Estate for Foreigners
- TheAfricanVestor - Moving to Cameroon Buy Property
- Société Générale Cameroun - Home Loan
- Afriland First Bank
- CFB Holding - Financing Your Dream Home in Cameroon
- Cameroon High Commission - Residence Formalities
- Cameroon eVisa - Residency in Cameroon
- Primetime Law Office - Maritime Mortgages Cameroon Guide