No, there are no exemptions from Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) for overseas buyers. SDLT is a tax that is paid by anyone who purchases a property or land in England, Wales, or Northern Ireland, regardless of their nationality or residency status. All buyers, including overseas buyers, are subject to the same SDLT rates as UK residents.
However, there is an ongoing consultation on whether to introduce a surcharge of 1% or 3% for non-UK resident buyers purchasing residential property in England and Northern Ireland. If the surcharge is introduced, it will be in addition to the current SDLT rates and will apply to non-UK resident buyers who do not meet certain criteria. The criteria have not yet been finalized, but it is likely that non-UK resident buyers who are buying property as their main residence will be exempt from the surcharge.
It’s important to seek advice from a solicitor or conveyancer who is experienced in property transactions involving overseas buyers, as there may be additional legal and practical considerations to take into account.
