Foreign Investors in Quebec: January 1, 2027 Isn't What You Think

11 Nov 2026

By Alexandre Lafitte — updated November 11, 2026. Many clients have asked me in recent months whether January 1, 2027 would mark the end of the federal ban on the purchase of residential properties by non-Canadians in Quebec. Having guided several transactions involving foreign buyers in the past, I wanted to verify the actual state of affairs before advising anyone on that basis. And the answer is more nuanced than most people believe.

A quick reminder: where this ban comes from

The Prohibition on the Purchase of Residential Property by Non-Canadians Act came into force on January 1, 2023. Initially set for two years, it was extended by the federal government until January 1, 2027, amid concerns about housing affordability for Canadians.

What the 2026 federal budget proposes

Here is the key point many people are missing: the 2026 federal budget proposes to extend the ban on existing residential properties until January 1, 2029, while lifting the ban on new residential properties. For now, this is only a proposal that still needs to be confirmed through legislation — it is not an already-guaranteed general reopening for 2027. Before planning a sale or purchase based on that date, it is essential to verify the exact state of the law at the time of the transaction.

Which properties are affected in Quebec

The current ban does not apply to every type of property or to every buyer residing abroad. It mainly covers houses, condominiums and buildings of up to three units located within a metropolitan area or a census agglomeration. Buildings of four units or more, properties located outside these areas, and vacant land are not covered in the same way. Exceptions also exist for certain individuals, including some temporary residents who meet specific conditions. A corporation incorporated in Canada does not automatically escape the ban if it is controlled by non-Canadians.

In the cross-border files I have handled, the first useful step has always been the same: verify the buyer's exact status, the precise location, and the category of the property before even discussing a closing date.

Possible impact on the Quebec market

If the proposed exemption for new housing comes into force, it could broaden the pool of buyers for certain new construction projects. On the other hand, an extension until 2029 for existing properties would limit a comparable return of foreign buyers to the resale market. These are scenarios worth watching, not certainties — their real impact will also depend on supply, financing conditions, and the specifics of each Quebec market.

In short: January 1, 2027 remains a date worth watching, but it is no longer a reliable promise of a full reopening of the Quebec market to foreign investors. Whether you're a homeowner, seller, or investor, my advice is to prepare your file now while confirming the rules actually in force at the time your transaction closes. Feel free to reach out to discuss your specific situation.

Sources

The information in this article is for general purposes only and may not reflect current laws or regulations. Verify any details with a qualified professional before making decisions. Some portions may have been created with AI assistance and should be confirmed for accuracy.

Written by Alexandre Lafitte

Mortgage broker