Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) 2025 — Complete Rate Guide
The Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) is a tax on top of the standard Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD) that applies when purchasing residential property in Singapore. First introduced in December 2011 to cool the property market, ABSD rates have been revised multiple times — most recently on 27 April 2023, when rates were significantly increased.
If you are buying residential property in Singapore, understanding ABSD is critical to your financial planning. This guide covers every ABSD rate, remission scenario, and includes worked examples to help you calculate your total stamp duty obligation.
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Current ABSD Rates (From 27 April 2023)
The ABSD rate you pay depends on two factors: your residency status and the number of residential properties you already own at the time of purchase.
Singapore Citizens (SC)
| Property Count | ABSD Rate |
|---|---|
| 1st residential property | 0% |
| 2nd residential property | 20% |
| 3rd and subsequent | 30% |
Singapore Permanent Residents (SPR)
| Property Count | ABSD Rate |
|---|---|
| 1st residential property | 5% |
| 2nd residential property | 30% |
| 3rd and subsequent | 35% |
Foreigners
| Property Count | ABSD Rate |
|---|---|
| Any residential property | 60% |
Entities (Companies, Trusts)
| Buyer Type | ABSD Rate |
|---|---|
| Any entity | 65% |
| Trustee of any trust | 65% |
> Key change (April 2023): The foreigner rate doubled from 30% to 60%, and entity/trust rates jumped from 35% to 65%. This was the most aggressive ABSD hike in Singapore's history.
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How ABSD Is Calculated
ABSD is calculated on the purchase price or market value of the property, whichever is higher. It is payable on top of Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD).
Formula
Total Stamp Duty = BSD + ABSD
Where:
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Worked Examples
Example 1: Singapore Citizen Buying 1st Property at $1,500,000
Example 2: Singapore Citizen Buying 2nd Property at $2,000,000
Example 3: Foreigner Buying Any Property at $2,000,000
This means a foreigner would pay over 63% of the property price in stamp duty alone — making Singapore one of the most expensive markets in the world for foreign buyers.
Example 4: PR Buying 1st Property at $1,000,000
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ABSD Remission for Married Couples
The government provides ABSD remission (refund) in specific scenarios to support Singaporean families:
Scenario 1: SC + SC Married Couple
If a Singapore Citizen couple jointly purchases a 2nd residential property and disposes of the first property within 6 months after the purchase (or completion of the new property, whichever is later), they can apply for full ABSD remission on the 2nd property.
Scenario 2: SC + SPR Married Couple
A Singapore Citizen married to an SPR can apply for ABSD remission on the SPR spouse's share of the property, effectively treating the purchase as if the SPR spouse were a Singapore Citizen. The SC spouse must not own more than one other residential property at the time of purchase.
Scenario 3: SC + Foreigner Married Couple
If a Singapore Citizen is married to a foreigner, the foreigner spouse can apply for ABSD remission to be treated at the SC rate — but only if the SC spouse does not own more than one residential property.
How to Apply for Remission
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When Is ABSD Payable?
ABSD must be paid within 14 days of executing the document (typically the Sale & Purchase Agreement). For properties purchased through developers with the Option to Purchase (OTP), the timeline is:
How to Pay ABSD
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Strategies to Manage ABSD
1. Buy Under One Name (Single Ownership)
If one spouse has no property, purchase the second property under their sole name to avoid ABSD.
2. Decoupling
Transfer your share of a jointly-owned property to your spouse, so you become a "zero-property" buyer. See our [guide on decoupling](/blog/our-blog-1/decoupling-property-to-avoid-absd-singapore-guide-67).
3. Sell First, Buy Second
Sell your existing property before purchasing the next one to maintain a lower property count.
4. Trust and Entity Structures
These attract the highest ABSD rate (65%) and are generally not recommended for tax savings purposes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I claim ABSD remission if I sell my property after more than 6 months?
No. The disposal must occur within 6 months of the date of purchase or completion of the new property, whichever is later. Extensions are rarely granted.
Is ABSD applicable to commercial or industrial property?
No. ABSD only applies to residential property. Commercial, industrial, and mixed-use properties (classified as non-residential) are exempt.
Do I pay ABSD on inherited property?
No. Property acquired through inheritance is generally exempt from ABSD. However, it does count towards your property count for future purchases.
Can foreigners get a lower ABSD rate?
Only if married to a Singapore Citizen and qualifying for ABSD remission. Otherwise, the 60% rate applies without exception.
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Summary
ABSD is one of the most significant costs of buying residential property in Singapore, especially for PRs, foreigners, and anyone purchasing multiple properties. Always factor ABSD into your financial planning, and consult a licensed property agent or tax advisor to explore remission eligibility.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax or legal advice. ABSD rates and remission policies are subject to change by the Singapore government. Always verify current rates with IRAS.