How to buy a house in Mauritania?

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Mauritania Property Pack

Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Mauritania Property Pack

Who is the author of this content?

THE AFRICANVESTOR

A team specialized in real estate investing in African countries

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Mauritania. If you'd like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At TheAfricanVestor, we explore the Mauritanian real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Nouakchott and Nouadhibou. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

How easy is it for a foreigner to buy property in Mauritania compared to Western countries?

Buying property in Mauritania is significantly more restrictive than in most Western countries.

Foreigners face substantial limitations as they cannot own land outright, unlike in countries such as the United States, Canada, or most European nations where foreign buyers typically enjoy full freehold ownership rights. In Mauritania, foreigners are limited to purchasing buildings and securing 99-year leaseholds on the land beneath them.

The bureaucratic process is considerably more complex than Western standards, requiring government approval for foreign purchases, extensive documentation verification, and longer processing times of 1-3 months compared to the typical 30-45 days in developed markets. Additionally, the legal framework, while existing under the 2012 Investment Code, suffers from inconsistent enforcement and bureaucratic delays that can frustrate buyers accustomed to more streamlined Western property systems.

Transaction costs also run higher at 6-15% of property value, compared to 2-5% typically seen in Western markets, due to additional regulatory requirements and the need for specialized legal representation.

It's something we develop in our Mauritania property pack.

What types of property can foreigners legally buy, and what restrictions exist?

Foreigners can legally purchase buildings including houses, apartments, and commercial spaces, but cannot own the underlying land directly.

The key restriction is that foreigners are limited to 99-year leaseholds on land in urban areas, while freehold land ownership remains reserved exclusively for Mauritanian citizens. This means you can own the physical structure but must lease the land it sits on for up to 99 years, which is renewable but not permanent ownership.

Rural properties and strategic border zones face additional restrictions, typically allowing only lease arrangements or partnerships with local citizens. Corporate structures and joint ventures with Mauritanian partners may provide more flexible arrangements, though these require careful legal structuring and compliance with local business laws.

Commercial properties follow similar rules, with foreigners able to own buildings but requiring leasehold arrangements for the land. Investment in certain sectors may qualify for additional incentives under the Investment Code, but residential property purchases do not automatically confer residency or citizenship rights.

These restrictions make property ownership less straightforward than markets where foreigners enjoy full ownership rights.

What is the step-by-step process to purchase a house in Mauritania?

Step	Process	Duration
1. Property Search	Find property via agents or direct listings	Variable
2. Due Diligence	Verify title, seller rights, encumbrances, municipal clearances	1-2 weeks
3. Negotiation	Sign preliminary agreement with deposit	1-7 days
4. Notarization	Notary reviews and notarizes sale-purchase contract	1-2 weeks
5. Government Approval	Required approval for foreign buyers, especially high-value properties	2-3 weeks
6. Fund Transfer	Pay via official bank transfer for security	1-3 days
7. Registration	File paperwork at Land Registry, get updated title/lease certificate	2-3 weeks
8. Title Receipt	Receive formal registration confirming legal rights	1-2 weeks

What documents are mandatory, and which ones are optional during the purchase process?

The mandatory documents required for foreign property purchase in Mauritania include comprehensive identification, financial, and property verification paperwork.

Mandatory documents include your passport, valid visa or residence permit, proof of funds demonstrating financial capacity, the property's title certificate or lease document, land registry extract showing current ownership status, cadastral survey confirming property boundaries, municipal tax clearance proving no outstanding obligations, investment declaration explaining the purchase purpose, and bank references from your financial institution.

Optional documents can facilitate the process and include company incorporation documents if purchasing through a corporate structure, architectural drawings for development projects, power of attorney documentation if completing the purchase remotely, and certified translations of foreign documents into Arabic or French, which are the official languages used in legal proceedings.

All foreign documents must be properly authenticated and may require apostille certification depending on your country of origin. Having translations prepared in advance can prevent delays during the notarization and registration phases.

Working with a qualified local lawyer ensures all required documentation is properly prepared and submitted according to current regulatory requirements.

Can you complete the buying process without physically being in the country?

Yes, you can complete the entire property purchase process without being physically present in Mauritania.

Remote purchasing requires appointing a reputable local lawyer and notary with power of attorney to act on your behalf throughout the transaction. This legal representative will handle document verification, contract negotiations, government approvals, and registration procedures while keeping you informed of progress and requiring your approval for major decisions.

The power of attorney document must be properly notarized in your home country and authenticated for use in Mauritania, typically requiring apostille certification or embassy authentication depending on your country's agreements with Mauritania. Your attorney will need clear instructions regarding your maximum budget, preferred terms, and decision-making authority levels.

All payments should be handled through official banking channels with wire transfers directly to verified accounts, never through cash transactions or informal methods. Your legal representative should provide regular updates, copies of all signed documents, and confirmation of each completed step.

Strong due diligence in selecting your legal representation is crucial since you're entrusting them with a significant financial transaction and legal authority to act on your behalf.

Are real estate agents in Mauritania generally reliable, and how do you find a trustworthy one?

Real estate agent reliability in Mauritania varies significantly, with the market lacking the standardized licensing and oversight systems found in developed countries.

While legal frameworks exist for property transactions, enforcement of professional standards and agent accountability can be inconsistent, making careful agent selection essential for foreign buyers. The industry includes both reputable professionals and less scrupulous operators, requiring buyers to exercise substantial due diligence.

To find trustworthy agents, verify their licensing status through local Land Registry offices or business chambers, request references from previous international clients, and confirm their track record with completed foreign transactions. Reputable agents should be willing to provide client references, demonstrate knowledge of foreign buyer requirements, and work transparently with legal professionals.

Consider working with agents who have established relationships with qualified notaries and lawyers, as this indicates experience with the complex documentation required for foreign purchases. Avoid agents who suggest cash transactions, discourage legal representation, or pressure for quick decisions without proper due diligence periods.

It's something we develop in our Mauritania property pack.

Will the legal system protect you if something goes wrong with the purchase?

Basic legal protections exist under Mauritania's 2012 Investment Code, but enforcement can be inconsistent and bureaucratic processes lengthy.

The legal framework provides recourse for property disputes and contract violations, with courts having jurisdiction over real estate matters and foreign investment protection measures in place. However, the practical reality involves potential delays in legal proceedings, language barriers for non-Arabic or French speakers, and varying levels of judicial efficiency across different regions.

Foreign buyers benefit from having proper legal representation throughout the transaction and maintaining comprehensive documentation of all agreements, payments, and communications. Proper notarization and registration provide stronger legal standing in case disputes arise, making these steps crucial rather than optional.

The most effective protection comes from thorough due diligence before purchase, including title verification, municipal clearances, and seller authenticity confirmation. Prevention through proper legal procedures proves more reliable than post-purchase legal remedies, given the potential complexity and duration of legal proceedings.

Insurance options may be limited, making careful transaction structuring and legal compliance your primary protection against potential issues.

What are the classic mistakes and pitfalls foreigners make when buying property there?

Foreign buyers commonly make several critical errors that can result in financial losses or legal complications.

The most frequent mistake is skipping comprehensive title and land registry due diligence, leading to purchases of properties with unclear ownership, outstanding debts, or legal disputes. Many foreigners also attempt to bypass certified notaries or qualified lawyers to save costs, resulting in improperly executed contracts that may not hold up legally.

Cash transactions and undocumented deals represent major pitfalls, as they provide no legal recourse and may violate banking regulations. Failing to verify the seller's legitimate right to sell the property can result in purchasing from individuals who lack proper authority, leading to ownership disputes later.

Overlooking municipal tax clearances and outstanding obligations can saddle new owners with unexpected debts and legal complications. Many buyers also underestimate document translation requirements, leading to delays and potential misunderstandings about contract terms and conditions.

Rushing through the process without adequate local legal representation or attempting to navigate the system independently often results in costly mistakes that could have been prevented with proper professional guidance.

What precautions should you take before finalizing a deal?

1. **Verify all documentation at both Land Registry and municipal offices** to ensure clear title and no outstanding obligations2. **Insist on official notarization and certified translation** of all documents into appropriate languages3. **Use only official bank transfers** and maintain complete financial transaction records, avoiding cash payments entirely4. **Hire qualified local legal representation** to verify seller information, title authenticity, and contract compliance5. **Conduct comprehensive property inspections** including structural assessments and boundary surveys6. **Confirm municipal tax clearances** and ensure no outstanding debts or liens against the property7. **Verify seller identity and authority** through official documentation and registry checks

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Mauritania 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.

How long does the whole process usually take from start to finish?

The complete property purchase process in Mauritania typically takes 1-3 months from initial offer to final title receipt.

The timeline breaks down into distinct phases: due diligence and property verification require 1-2 weeks for thorough title searches, municipal clearances, and document preparation. Contract notarization and government approval processes typically take 2-3 weeks, with foreign buyer approvals sometimes requiring additional time for high-value or strategic properties.

Final registration and title receipt phases require another 2-3 weeks as paperwork moves through the Land Registry system and formal ownership documents are prepared and issued. These timeframes assume all documentation is properly prepared and no complications arise during the approval process.

Delays can extend the timeline significantly, particularly if documentation is incomplete, government approvals face backlogs, or title issues require resolution. Remote purchases may take slightly longer due to international document authentication requirements and communication logistics with local representatives.

Working with experienced local professionals and ensuring all documentation is properly prepared in advance can help maintain the shorter end of the typical timeline range.

What taxes, fees, and other costs should you expect, and what's the full breakdown?

Cost Type	Range (% of Property Value)	Notes
Notary Fees	2-5%	Contract preparation and authentication
Registration Fees	1-3%	Land Registry processing and title issuance
Transfer Taxes	2-5%	Government transfer duties and stamps
Legal/Agent Fees	1-2%	Professional representation and services
Document Translation	0.5-1%	Certified translations and authentication
Bank Transfer Costs	0.1-0.3%	International wire transfer fees
Total Typical Costs	6-15%	Combined closing costs excluding purchase price

Can you buy a house in cash, and is mortgage financing actually available for foreigners?

Cash purchases are common and permitted in Mauritania, with many transactions completed entirely through buyer funds.

Mortgage financing exists for foreigners but remains limited in availability and comes with strict requirements that many international buyers cannot meet. Banks typically require substantial down payments of at least 20% of property value, with maximum financing around 60% of the purchase price, significantly lower than Western mortgage standards.

Interest rates range from 5.9% to 14.5% annually depending on the lender, loan amount, and borrower qualifications, with repayment terms generally limited to 10-12 years maximum. Foreign applicants must demonstrate stable income, preferably through local employment or established business activities within Mauritania, making financing challenging for buyers without local economic ties.

Documentation requirements include extensive financial records, employment verification, bank statements, and often require personal guarantees or additional collateral beyond the property being purchased. Microfinance options exist for smaller purchases but tend to be less regulated and carry higher risks.

Most foreign buyers opt for cash purchases to avoid the complexity and uncertainty of the local financing market, though this requires substantial liquid capital availability.

It's something we develop in our Mauritania property pack.

Is there any path to residency or citizenship through property ownership?

Property ownership alone does not provide automatic residency or citizenship rights in Mauritania.

Unlike some countries that offer residence-by-investment programs tied to real estate purchases, Mauritania requires separate applications for residency status that are not directly linked to property ownership. Foreign property owners must still comply with standard visa and residency requirements through other qualifying criteria.

Investor residency options exist but require significantly higher investment thresholds, typically starting from $100,000 or more, and are generally linked to business development activities rather than simple property acquisition. These programs focus on job creation, economic development, and active business operations rather than passive real estate investment.

Business visa categories may be available for foreigners establishing companies or investing in commercial enterprises, but these require ongoing business activity and compliance with local business registration and operational requirements. Property ownership can support residency applications by demonstrating economic ties to the country, but it serves as supporting evidence rather than a qualifying factor.

Buyers interested in long-term residency should consult immigration lawyers about appropriate visa categories and investment thresholds that align with their specific circumstances and goals.

Where do foreigners tend to buy the most in Mauritania?

Foreign buyers concentrate their purchases primarily in Mauritania's two main urban centers: Nouakchott and Nouadhibou.

Nouakchott, the capital city, attracts the highest volume of foreign property investment due to its superior infrastructure, government services, international business presence, and diplomatic community. The city offers the most developed real estate market with better property management services, reliable utilities, and established expatriate communities that support foreign residents.

Nouadhibou, the major port city, appeals particularly to business and investment-focused buyers due to its commercial significance, industrial development, and strategic location for trade activities. The city's economic importance in mining and fishing industries creates opportunities for both residential and commercial property investments.

Urban areas generally receive preference over rural locations because they offer formal property registration systems, better infrastructure, reliable utilities, and easier access to legal and professional services required for foreign property transactions. Rural and remote areas face additional restrictions and often lack the infrastructure and services that international buyers expect.

Within these cities, foreigners typically focus on neighborhoods with existing international communities, modern amenities, and properties that meet Western construction and safety standards.

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.

Sources

1. TheAfricanVestor - Mauritania Real Estate for Foreigners
2. TheAfricanVestor - Moving to Mauritania Buy Property
3. BuildsandBuys - Mauritania Real Estate Investment Guide
4. TheAfricanVestor - Mauritania Real Estate Forecasts
5. Mauritania Embassy - Investment Procedures
6. UK Government - Living in Mauritania
7. US State Department - Investment Climate Statements Mauritania
8. US State Department - 2024 Investment Climate Statements Mauritania