Buying Land or Properties in Fiji

Fiji is a very attractive South Pacific Island nation for those interested in investing. Opportunities range from buying land and building homes for retirement or holiday retreats to setting up tourism or commodity export businesses. As one of the only countries in the South Pacific islands that allows foreign ownership of land, Fiji is unique. In Fiji, freehold land is available for purchase by foreigners and the largest percentage of available freehold land in the country is located on Vanua Levu. Foreigners who purchase freehold land in Fiji hold title to their property. Furthermore, Fiji’s government encourages foreign investment through the Fiji Trade and Investment Bureau (FTIB). The FTIB is a government agency that has set up procedures that are specifically geared to allow and encourage foreign investment in Fiji.

The process of buying land in the islands is relatively simple, but slow. Land titles are secure because Fiji freehold or land tenure is via a Torrens title land-registration system with the title guaranteed constitutionally by the State. You will be required to fill out forms, submit a police verification that you have no criminal record, and do various other tasks such as paying duties. It usually takes from 3 - 6 months to have a sale finalized. The process is straight forward but it is best to seek the advice of a local lawyer from one of the bigger firms in Fiji to help with the paperwork and transactions.

Capital Gains Tax

Capital gains realized from selling property are generally not taxed in Fiji. However, capital gains from selling property which was acquired with the intention of earning profit or disposed within 3 years of acquisition are treated as ordinary income and taxed at the standard income tax rates.

Property Taxes

There are no property taxes in Fiji.