Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Gabon Property Pack
Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Gabon Property Pack
Buying property in Gabon as a foreigner comes with specific rules and restrictions you need to understand before making any investment.
Foreigners can purchase property in Gabon, but they cannot own land outright - instead, they acquire long-term leaseholds of up to 99 years, while government authorization is required for all foreign property transactions.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Gabon, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
Foreigners can buy property in Gabon through long-term leaseholds up to 99 years, but cannot own land outright like locals can.
The process requires government authorization, notarial deeds, and involves substantial taxes and fees totaling around 15-20% of the property value.
| Aspect | Details | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership Type | Leasehold only (up to 99 years) | No freehold ownership for foreigners |
| Government Approval | Required before purchase | Can take 1-3 months to obtain |
| Best Cities | Libreville, Port-Gentil, Akanda | Libreville has highest expat concentration |
| Property Prices | 148,500 CFA/m² outside city center | Stable or slight decrease expected in 2025 |
| Mortgage Access | Limited for foreigners | 7.75-13% interest rates, 15-year max |
| Transfer Tax | 8% of property value | Plus notary fees and other costs |
| Rental Income Tax | 5% (individual) or 20% (corporate) | Based on net rental value |
What types of property can foreigners legally buy in Gabon?
Foreigners can legally buy property in Gabon, but they face significant restrictions compared to local citizens.
The most important restriction is that foreigners cannot own land outright (freehold ownership). Instead, they can only acquire property through long-term leaseholds, which typically run for up to 99 years. This means you'll have the right to use and develop the land for that period, but you won't own the land itself permanently.
Foreigners can purchase residential units like apartments and houses, commercial properties for business purposes, and in some cases agricultural land. However, agricultural land purchases are subject to stricter government controls and are often prioritized for local farmers. In commercial sectors, foreigners may be limited to owning only 50% of a property, requiring local partners for the remaining share.
There are also geographical restrictions to be aware of. Properties in strategic areas, border zones, or environmentally sensitive regions may be completely off-limits to non-citizens. Some urban zones and protected areas also have special regulations that exclude foreign ownership.
It's something we develop in our Gabon property pack.
Do I need a visa or residency to buy property in Gabon?
You don't need a visa or residency status to purchase property in Gabon.
However, you must obtain prior government authorization before any property transaction can proceed. This authorization is a separate process from immigration requirements and is specifically for the property purchase itself. The approval process typically takes 1-3 months and involves submitting various documents to demonstrate your intent and financial capacity.
It's crucial to understand that buying property in Gabon does not automatically grant you residency rights or the right to live in the country. Property ownership and immigration status are completely separate matters under Gabonese law. If you plan to live in Gabon after purchasing property, you'll need to apply for the appropriate visa or residence permit through the standard immigration channels.
As of June 2025, the government has maintained these policies to control foreign investment while ensuring that property ownership doesn't become a backdoor to immigration.
Can I complete a property purchase remotely or must I be physically present?
It is not strictly necessary to be physically present in Gabon to complete a property purchase.
You can execute transactions remotely by granting power of attorney to a local representative, such as a lawyer or trusted agent. This legal document allows your representative to sign contracts, handle payments, and complete the registration process on your behalf. The power of attorney must be properly notarized and may need to be authenticated by the Gabonese consulate in your home country.
However, while remote purchase is legally possible, making at least one visit to Gabon before finalizing the purchase is strongly recommended. Being there in person allows you to inspect the property thoroughly, verify its condition and location, meet with local professionals, and get a feel for the neighborhood and local market conditions.
Many foreign buyers make an initial visit for property viewing and due diligence, then complete the final transaction remotely through their appointed representative. This approach balances practical considerations with the need for proper verification.
What is the complete step-by-step process to buy property in Gabon?
The property purchase process in Gabon involves several mandatory steps that must be followed in sequence.
First, you need to conduct thorough due diligence on the property. This includes verifying the property's legal status, confirming ownership through the land registry, and checking for any encumbrances or disputes. You'll need to engage a local real estate agent and lawyer to assist with this verification process.
Second, you must obtain government authorization as a foreign buyer. This involves submitting an application to the relevant ministry with documents including your passport, proof of funds, intended use of the property, and a letter explaining your investment intentions. This approval typically takes 1-3 months.
Third, once approved, you negotiate terms with the seller and sign a preliminary agreement (compromis de vente). This contract outlines all terms and conditions, including price, payment schedule, and any conditions precedent.
Fourth, all property transfers must be formalized through a notarial deed. The notary is a public official who ensures legal compliance, verifies all documents, and registers the transaction. The notary will prepare the final deed of sale (acte de vente) which both parties must sign.
Finally, you complete the payment (usually in CFA francs) and register the property with the local land registry. This registration secures your legal ownership and provides you with the official property title.
| Stage | Required Documents | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Due Diligence | Title deed verification, Tax clearance check | 1-2 weeks |
| Government Authorization | Passport, Proof of funds, Investment letter | 1-3 months |
| Preliminary Agreement | Draft contract, ID documents | 1 week |
| Notarial Process | All previous documents, Authorization letter | 2-3 weeks |
| Registration | Notarized deed, Payment proof | 1-2 weeks |
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Is hiring a local lawyer mandatory when buying real estate in Gabon?
Hiring a local lawyer is not legally mandatory, but it is strongly recommended for foreign buyers.
While the law doesn't require you to have legal representation, the complexity of Gabonese property law, language barriers, and the need for thorough due diligence make it extremely risky to proceed without one. A local lawyer will help you navigate the authorization process, verify property titles, negotiate contracts in French (the official language), and ensure compliance with all legal requirements.
What is mandatory is the involvement of a notary public (notaire). The notary is a public official who must authenticate and register all property transactions in Gabon. They are neutral parties who ensure legal compliance for both buyer and seller. However, the notary doesn't represent your interests specifically, which is why having your own lawyer is crucial.
A good property lawyer in Libreville typically charges between 1-2% of the property value for their services. This investment can save you from costly mistakes, invalid transactions, or property disputes. They'll also help coordinate with the notary and ensure all documents are properly prepared.
Many foreign buyers have discovered hidden issues or avoided problematic properties thanks to their lawyer's due diligence.
Which neighborhoods in Gabon are most popular among foreigners?
Libreville, the capital city, is by far the most popular destination for foreign property buyers in Gabon.
Within Libreville, the Sablière neighborhood stands out as the top choice for affluent foreigners. Located along the beachfront, it hosts numerous diplomatic residences and offers luxury properties with modern amenities. Glass is another sought-after area, known for its vibrant atmosphere and modern infrastructure. For those seeking more affordable options, Angondjé provides good value with significant growth potential, while Batterie IV offers historic charm.
Port-Gentil, Gabon's oil industry hub, attracts many expatriate workers in the petroleum sector. The Sogara area is particularly popular due to its proximity to oil company offices and facilities. Rental demand here remains consistently high from international oil workers, making it attractive for investment properties.
Akanda, a coastal area near Libreville, is emerging as a favorite for lifestyle buyers. It offers eco-friendly developments, beautiful beaches, and is increasingly popular for short-term vacation rentals. The area provides a more relaxed atmosphere while still being accessible to the capital.
Other cities like Mouila and Koulamoutou are gaining attention from investors looking for growth potential at lower entry prices, though they have smaller expatriate communities.
Where are the best areas for lifestyle, rental yields, or appreciation?
Different areas in Gabon offer distinct advantages depending on your investment goals.
For lifestyle living, Sablière in Libreville remains the premium choice with its beachfront location, diplomatic presence, and high-end amenities. Akanda offers a more relaxed coastal lifestyle with eco-friendly developments and natural beauty. Glass provides urban convenience with modern infrastructure and vibrant city life. These areas attract diplomats, international business executives, and wealthy locals who value security and comfort.
It's something we develop in our Gabon property pack.
High rental yields are found primarily in areas with strong expatriate demand. Sogara in Port-Gentil tops the list due to oil industry workers needing quality accommodation. Properties here can achieve occupancy rates above 80% with premium rents. Akanda is showing promising returns from short-term vacation rentals, with monthly revenues of $310-400 and occupancy rates around 29-31%.
For long-term capital appreciation, focus on areas undergoing infrastructure development. Angondjé in Libreville offers affordable entry prices with strong growth potential due to urban expansion. Mouila is benefiting from government infrastructure investments and could see significant appreciation over the next 5-10 years.
Tourism traffic is concentrated in Pointe Denis, Akanda, and central Libreville, where proximity to beaches and national parks drives short-term rental demand.
How much does property cost across Gabon and what's the price trend?
Property prices in Gabon vary significantly between Libreville and other cities.
In Libreville's city center, rental prices for a 1-bedroom apartment average around 650,000 CFA francs per month, while 3-bedroom apartments command approximately 1,500,000 CFA francs monthly. Outside the city center, prices drop considerably to about 300,000 CFA francs for a 1-bedroom and 575,000 CFA francs for a 3-bedroom apartment.
For property purchases, the average price per square meter outside Libreville's center is approximately 148,500 CFA francs. Premium neighborhoods like Sablière can see prices 2-3 times higher, while emerging areas like Angondjé offer more affordable options.
As we reach mid-2025, the price trend shows stability with a slight downward pressure. Economic challenges and political transitions have cooled the market, with prices expected to remain flat or decrease slightly through 2025. Any increase is likely to be limited to 3-7% in the best-performing areas. This creates opportunities for buyers but suggests caution for those expecting quick appreciation.
Long-term appreciation remains strongest in areas benefiting from infrastructure investment and urban expansion, particularly in secondary cities where the government is focusing development efforts.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Gabon 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.
Can foreigners get mortgages in Gabon and how?
Mortgages are available to foreigners in Gabon, but access is limited and conditions are restrictive.
The mortgage market in Gabon remains underdeveloped compared to international standards. Local banks such as Orabank and UGB (Union Gabonaise de Banque) offer housing loans to foreigners, but with strict requirements. Interest rates typically range from 7.75% to 13% annually, with maximum repayment periods of 15 years. These terms are less favorable than in many developed markets.
To improve your chances of mortgage approval, you should have local income or business interests in Gabon, maintain a Gabonese bank account for at least 6 months, and prepare a strong application with proof of stable income. Foreigners often face higher down payment requirements, typically 30-40% compared to 20% for locals.
The approval process can take 3-6 months, requiring extensive documentation including work permits, tax returns, and bank statements. Many foreign buyers find it easier to arrange financing from their home country or pay cash. Some international banks operating in Gabon may offer better terms to their existing clients.
Consider working with a mortgage broker familiar with foreign applications to navigate the process more effectively.
What are all the taxes and fees when buying and selling property?
The total transaction costs for buying property in Gabon typically amount to 15-20% of the property value.
The main expense is the transfer/registration tax at 8% of the property value. For lease registrations, you'll pay 3% for unlimited leases or 2% for limited residential leases. Stamp duties range from 2-8% depending on the documents involved. Notary fees typically add another 1-2% of the property value.
Additional costs include legal fees if you hire a lawyer (1-2%), real estate agent commission (typically 3-5% paid by the seller but sometimes shared), and bank fees for international transfers at around 1.5%. You should also budget for property valuation fees, translation costs for documents, and administrative charges.
When selling property, you'll face a capital gains tax of 20% on any profit from the sale. This is calculated on the difference between your purchase and sale price, adjusted for inflation and improvements.
Annual property taxes are based on the property's assessed value and location. Rental income is taxed at 5% for individuals or 20% for companies on the net taxable rental value.
What mistakes do foreigners commonly make when buying property in Gabon?
The most critical mistake foreigners make is not understanding that they cannot own land outright in Gabon.
Many buyers assume they're getting freehold ownership similar to their home country, only to discover they're acquiring a leasehold. This misunderstanding can lead to significant disappointment and financial complications. Always clarify that you're getting a long-term lease (up to 99 years) rather than permanent ownership.
Skipping proper due diligence is another costly error. Some buyers rely solely on the seller's word or an agent's assurance without verifying the property title, checking for encumbrances, or confirming zoning regulations. Always insist on seeing original documents and have them verified by your lawyer and the land registry.
It's something we develop in our Gabon property pack.
Relying entirely on real estate agents without independent verification is risky. While many agents are professional, some may not have your best interests at heart. Always build relationships with multiple reputable agents and verify property information independently.
Other common mistakes include:- Ignoring the total cost of ownership, including taxes and maintenance- Not visiting the property in person before purchasing- Failing to obtain proper government authorization before proceeding- Underestimating the time required for the purchase process- Not having documents professionally translated if you don't speak French
What are the tax implications of owning property in Gabon?
Property ownership in Gabon comes with several ongoing tax obligations you need to understand.
Rental income is taxed at different rates depending on your status. Individual property owners pay 5% tax on net rental income, while companies face a 20% rate. The tax is calculated on the net taxable rental value after deducting allowable expenses like maintenance, management fees, and mortgage interest. You must file quarterly returns and make payments to the Gabonese tax authority.
Annual property tax is levied based on the assessed value of your property and its location. Rates vary by municipality but typically range from 0.5% to 1.5% of the property's value. This tax is payable by the owner regardless of whether the property is rented out or vacant.
When you sell your property, capital gains tax of 20% applies to any profit. The gain is calculated as the difference between your sale price and purchase price, with some adjustments allowed for inflation and capital improvements. There's no exemption period - the tax applies regardless of how long you've owned the property.
Double taxation can be an issue if your home country also taxes worldwide income. Check whether your country has a tax treaty with Gabon to avoid being taxed twice on the same income. Some countries have agreements in place, but many don't, meaning you might need to claim foreign tax credits in your home country.
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.
Buying property in Gabon as a foreigner requires careful navigation of legal restrictions and bureaucratic processes, but opportunities exist for those who understand the market.
As of June 2025, the Gabonese property market offers stability rather than rapid growth, making it suitable for long-term investors seeking rental income rather than quick capital gains. Success depends on choosing the right location, understanding the leasehold system, and working with qualified local professionals throughout the process.
Sources
- The African Investor - Gabon Real Estate for Foreigners
- Generis Online - Foreign Property Ownership in Gabon
- Lawzana - Real Estate Lawyers in Libreville
- Numbeo - Gabon Property Investment Data
- Housing Finance Africa - Gabon Report
- PwC - Gabon Tax Summary
- Central Africa Tax Guide - Gabon
- Oxford Business Group - Gabon Tax Regulations
- Global Property Guide - Gabon Rental Income Tax
- MLZ - Gabon Real Estate Laws 2025