We hear this one a lot, usually from families here in Canada asking on behalf of relatives overseas: "Can they buy yet?" Here's an honest answer, without the speculation.
Where it came from
The Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act took effect on January 1, 2023. It says a non-Canadian can't buy residential property in Canada, directly or indirectly, unless an exception applies. It was meant to last two years, but on February 4, 2024 the government extended it to January 1, 2027.
Since then, there's been a lot of talk. Legal and industry sources in August and September 2026 reported that nothing had been tabled or passed, and that the government is reviewing the policy, including looking at models like Australia's, which allows some foreign purchases of new construction while restricting existing homes. That's commentary, though, not a decision. Our advice: don't plan a purchase on the assumption it will be lifted.
Does it apply to you?
It depends on your status, not where you live.
Not affected
- Canadian citizens, including those living abroad
- Permanent residents
- People registered under the Indian Act
Generally affected
- Anyone who isn't one of the above
- Corporations incorporated outside Canada
- Canadian private corporations controlled by non-Canadians
According to CMHC, the ban covers residential buildings with one to three units, including detached homes, semis, condos and legal duplexes. Vacant land and buildings with four or more units have been excluded since March 27, 2023.
It only applies inside a census metropolitan area or census agglomeration. Statistics Canada treats Cornwall as a census agglomeration, so homes in Cornwall are covered. For Long Sault and other nearby communities, your lawyer should confirm where the specific property falls.
You may still be able to buy
Several exceptions exist. According to CMHC, they include:
- temporary residents with a valid work permit that has at least 183 days left at the time of purchase, subject to conditions;
- certain international students, with conditions that include a $500,000 purchase price limit;
- protected persons, refugee claimants, and certain people with humanitarian temporary resident status;
- buying jointly with a spouse or common-law partner who is a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or otherwise eligible;
- diplomatic and consular staff, under specific conditions.
The details matter, so have a real estate lawyer confirm your situation before you sign anything. The stakes are real: a non-Canadian who breaks the law, or anyone who knowingly helps, can be fined up to $10,000, and a court can order the property sold, with the buyer getting back no more than they paid.
Don't forget Ontario's 25% tax
Even if the federal ban ends, Ontario has its own rule. The Non-Resident Speculation Tax (NRST) has been 25% since October 25, 2022 and applies province-wide to purchases of residential property with one to six single-family residences by foreign nationals, foreign corporations and taxable trustees.
There are exemptions, for example for some provincial nominees, protected persons, and spouses of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, and a rebate may be available if the buyer becomes a permanent resident within four years.
On the HST side, Ontario's enhanced relief for a primary residence is for individuals who live in the home, and there's a separate stream for long-term rentals. Our HST guide explains both; ask your tax adviser whether either could apply to you.
If you're buying from abroad
If you, or a family member, are eligible to buy, we can make it straightforward from a distance: video walkthroughs of our homes in Cornwall and Long Sault, the documents your lawyer will need, and introductions to our professional property management partners if you plan to rent. Send us a note and we'll get back to you within one business day.
Please note: This article is general information only, current as of September 27, 2026. It is not legal, tax or financial advice, and program rules can change. The status of the federal ban may change before or on January 1, 2027. Please speak with a qualified lawyer, accountant or tax adviser about your own situation.