Everything You Need to Know When Buying Land in the Philippines As a Former Filipino Citizen

Can Former Filipino Citizens Purchase Lot Properties in the Philippines

If you’re a former Filipino citizen who has acquired foreign citizenship, you may be wondering whether you can still purchase land in the Philippines. The good news is that Philippine laws provide specific rights and allowances for former natural-born Filipinos when it comes to owning property in the country.

Land Ownership Limits for Former Filipinos

Under existing Philippine law, former natural-born Filipino citizens are permitted to own land in the Philippines. This provision is outlined in Batas Pambansa Blg. 185 and Republic Act No. 8179, which allow land acquisition for both residential and business purposes, provided certain limitations are observed.

If you are purchasing land for residential purposes, you are entitled to acquire:

• Up to 1,000 square meters of urban land, or
      
• Up to 1 hectare of rural land

For business or commercial purposes, the law allows:

• Up to 5,000 square meters of urban land, or
      
• Up to 3 hectares of rural land

These land ownership limits are strictly enforced. Moreover, a former Filipino citizen is only allowed to acquire two lots located in different municipalities or cities, provided the total land area does not exceed the maximum allowable limit.

Requirements for Purchasing Land

To buy land in the Philippines as a former Filipino, you must provide proof of your previous Philippine citizenship. Typically, this includes:

• A copy of your old Philippine passport.
      
• Your birth certificate issued by the Philippine Statistics Authority.
      
• A foreign passport indicating your current citizenship.

Additionally, you must submit an Affidavit of Purpose, stating whether the land will be used for residential or business purposes.

Reacquiring Philippine Citizenship

Former Filipinos may also consider reacquiring Philippine citizenship through Republic Act No. 9225, known as the Citizenship Retention and Re-acquisition Act of 2003. Once citizenship is reacquired, there are no more restrictions on land ownership – reacquired citizens enjoy the same property rights as any other Filipino citizen.

The reacquisition process can be completed through the Philippine consulate in your current country of residence. Importantly, dual citizenship restores property rights while allowing you to engage in business, vote, and reside in the Philippines even without a visa.

Final Thoughts

Buying property in the Philippines as a former Filipino citizen is entirely legal and feasible, provided you follow the proper legal procedures and respect the limitations imposed by the law. Whether you’re looking to build a retirement home or start a business, understanding your rights is the first step toward making a sound investment.
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Before making any purchase, it is advisable to consult with a Philippine real estate attorney to ensure compliance with all legal requirements. By doing so, you can safeguard your investment and enjoy a smooth transition to owning land in your homeland once again. You may also visit REALS Corporation website to find the best house and lot for sale in Baguio, Cavite, Laguna, and other strategic locations in the Philippines.

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