Ukrainians who are abroad are increasingly purchasing real estate in Ukraine — for living, investment, or asset preservation. At the same time, in 2026 many questions have arisen regarding new rules and legislative changes. In fact, the procedure for buying real estate remains clear, but it has important nuances. In this article, we will explain how to properly complete a transaction while being abroad and what to pay attention to before signing the contract.
Contents:
- What has actually changed in 2026
- Real estate purchase for Ukrainians abroad: possible formats
- Power of attorney: how to оформить and what to consider
- The role of a notary if the owner or buyer is abroad
- Financial monitoring and source of funds
- Registration of the real estate transaction and ownership rights
- Legal steps to protect the buyer
- When legal assistance is needed
What has actually changed in 2026
At the beginning of 2026, a new law on real estate transactions is активно discussed, but it is important to understand: the rules for notarizing transactions for buyers and sellers have not changed.
The only real update is that from January 1, 2026, notaries are required to submit information to the tax authorities about notarized agreements of sale, exchange, and donation of real estate. This obligation applies to notaries, not private individuals. No additional statements are required from the buyer or seller.
Real estate purchase for Ukrainians abroad: possible formats
If you are outside Ukraine, purchasing real estate is possible in two formats:
1) Personal presence in Ukraine
You come to Ukraine for the transaction, sign the agreement with a notary, after which the state registration of rights is carried out immediately.
2) Transaction through an authorized representative
The most common option is completing the transaction remotely through a representative in Ukraine.
Power of attorney: how to arrange and what to consider
If you cannot be present in person, the agreement may be concluded through a representative in accordance with Article 244 of the Civil Code of Ukraine.
A power of attorney can be issued:
- at a Ukrainian consulate abroad
- with a foreign notary, followed by an apostille or legalization (depending on the country)
It is critically important that the power of attorney:
- is drafted in accordance with Ukrainian legislation
- includes a clear list of powers: signing agreements, obtaining certificates, participating in financial settlements, submitting documents for registration
- is properly legalized or falls under international agreements
At this stage, the involvement of a notary is often necessary to avoid refusal to notarize the agreement in Ukraine.
The role of a notary if a party is abroad
The notary:
- verifies the validity and scope of the power of attorney
- conducts legal due diligence of the real estate
- ensures the transaction complies with legal requirements
- performs financial monitoring
- ensures registration of the transaction and transfer of ownership rights
Financial monitoring and source of funds
Financial monitoring has been in place for several years. If the transaction amount equals or exceeds 400,000 UAH, the notary is required to verify the source of funds.
This may include:
- business income
- salary
- inheritance or gift
- loan or credit
As of 2026, no new requirements have been introduced for buyers — the changes only affect notaries’ reporting to tax authorities.
Registration of the transaction and ownership rights
After signing the agreement, the notary carries out state registration of rights in the State Register of Property Rights. This step legally establishes your ownership of the real estate.
If you are planning to purchase real estate while abroad, it is advisable to agree on the procedure in advance. You can request a consultation via the contact details, learn more about transaction support in the notary services section, and explore other legal services in the “other services” section.
18.03.2026
