Can foreigners buy property in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Usually yes. In Bosnia and Herzegovina a foreigner can buy property if their country has reciprocity with it; the Federation's Ministry of Justice keeps the list. Agricultural land and forests are excluded.
Yes, you can buy in your own name. / Yes, with conditions.: Your country must have reciprocity with Bosnia and Herzegovina. Germany and Austria are confirmed; check the current list for other EU countries.
Reciprocity
- Reciprocity applies to every foreign buyer: you can buy if citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina can buy in your country. The Federation's Ministry of Justice publishes the list (59 countries as of May 2026). Switzerland is also confirmed.
What foreigners cannot buy
- Agricultural land, forests and forest land
- Property in protected natural areas
Buying through a company
- A Bosnian limited company (d.o.o.) is a domestic buyer and is not subject to the reciprocity test.
Confirm with a local lawyer
- The rules differ between the Federation, Republika Srpska and the Brčko District; check the rules for the entity where the property is.
- Confirm that your country is on the current reciprocity list.
This is a summary of the ownership rules, not legal advice. Rules change and depend on the property; confirm your case with a local lawyer before you buy.
Read the full Bosnia and Herzegovina buying guide · Buying costs in Bosnia and Herzegovina · Homes for sale in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Questions about buying in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Can foreigners buy property in Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Yes, if their country has reciprocity with Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Federation's Ministry of Justice keeps the list; buyers from other countries can buy through a Bosnian company.
Can foreigners buy agricultural land in Bosnia?
No. Foreign nationals generally cannot own agricultural land, forests or forest land.
Does owning property in Bosnia give residency?
No. Owning property does not automatically give residency or citizenship.