I want to buy in Uruguay. Where do I start?

Updated October 2026.

It is the question we hear most often. The good news is that the process for a foreigner is the same as for a Uruguayan, and it is well organized. Here is the step-by-step process, with what to keep in mind at each stage.

Before you start: who can buy

A foreign individual can buy a house, an apartment or a lot without being a resident and with the same legal treatment as a Uruguayan. Farms, chacras and purchases through companies have their own rules: we explain them in Can foreigners buy real estate in Uruguay?, along with the taxes and costs of buying.

Step 1: define your search and total budget

On top of the price, add the property transfer tax (2% for the buyer, on the cadastral value), the notary's fees, registration costs and the real estate commission. Ask for a full estimate before deciding.

Step 2: visit the properties

In person or, if you are far away, through video tours. Ask about the fixed costs: property tax, HOA or building fees for an apartment or a gated community, and maintenance.

Step 3: the offer and the reservation

Once the price is agreed, a reservation is signed and a deposit is paid. The amount, who holds it and what happens if either party backs out are agreed case by case: make sure everything is in writing.

Step 4: the notary reviews the property

The notary public (escribano) is a legal professional with public authority: they examine the title, request certificates from the Registry and check that there are no debts or liens. They act impartially, not as one party's lawyer; if you want your own advice, you can choose your notary or add a lawyer. They will also ask for your ID documents and the source of funds, as required by anti-money-laundering rules.

Step 5: the purchase agreement

Many transactions go through a purchase agreement (promesa de compraventa) before the deed, especially when there are payment terms or pending procedures. It can be recorded in the Registry, and it is also subject to the property transfer tax: your notary will explain when it is paid.

Step 6: the deed and the payment

At the signing of the public deed before the notary, the balance is paid and the property is transferred to your name. Payment is made by bank transfer: since April 2026, cash is capped at 200,000 UI (about USD 33,000), or 5% of the price up to 450,000 UI.

Step 7: recording in the Property Registry

The notary records the deed in the Property Registry. That recording makes your purchase enforceable against third parties, meaning it can be asserted against other people.

What if I cannot be in Uruguay?

You can buy remotely with a power of attorney in favor of someone you trust, granted before a notary in your country and legalized or apostilled. The notary still has to verify your identity and the source of funds, so prepare those documents early.

How long does it take?

There is no fixed timeline: it depends on the title being in order, the certificates needed and how payment is made. Your notary can give you an estimated schedule at the start.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a lawyer in addition to the notary?

It is not mandatory. The notary handles the title review and the deed. If you want independent advice, you can hire your own notary or a lawyer.

How much is the deposit?

There is no amount set by law: it is agreed between the parties. What matters is putting in writing who holds it and when it is returned.

Does buying a property give me residency?

Not on its own. Legal residency is a separate process, and tax residency has its own requirements: we explain them in Tax Residency in Uruguay: What Every Foreigner Should Know.

We are with you every step of the way

The process is well regulated. What makes the difference is choosing the right property and having the right professionals from the start. Have questions? Get in touch.

Message us on WhatsApp or send us an email.

Sources: DGI: property transfer tax · Law 16.871 (Public Registries) · Law 20.469. This article is for information only and is not a substitute for advice from a notary.