Non-Resident Speculation Tax
The Non-Resident Speculation Tax (NRST) is an Ontario tax on foreign buyers of residential properties to curb speculation and support affordability.
September 30, 2025
What is the Non-Resident Speculation Tax?
The Non-Resident Speculation Tax (NRST) is a provincial tax in Ontario applied to the purchase of residential properties by foreign buyers. Initially introduced in the Greater Golden Horseshoe region, it has since been expanded province-wide. The NRST is an additional percentage of the purchase price, charged on top of land transfer taxes.
Why the Non-Resident Speculation Tax Matters in Real Estate
The NRST matters in real estate because it is designed to curb foreign speculation and stabilize housing markets by discouraging non-resident ownership. It raises government revenue while aiming to improve affordability for local buyers.
Example of the Non-Resident Speculation Tax in Action
A non-resident investor purchases a $1,000,000 home in Toronto. They must pay the standard land transfer tax plus the NRST at the applicable rate, adding tens of thousands to closing costs.
Key Takeaways
- Applies to foreign buyers of Ontario residential property.
- Charged as a percentage of the purchase price.
- Aims to reduce speculation and increase affordability.
- Introduced in GGH region, expanded province-wide.
- Significant additional cost for non-resident buyers.
Related Terms
- Underused Housing Tax
- Speculation and Vacancy Tax
- Vacant Home Tax
- Land Transfer Tax
- Housing Affordability


Mattamy WideLot™ design
'The Cline' at Cityscape
'The Monarch' at Yorkville






15284-15296 Fleetwood Drive in Surrey. (Flat Architecture, 1098261 BC Ltd.)
Renderings of the tower proposed for 15284-15296 Fleetwood Drive in Surrey. (Flat Architecture, 1098261 BC Ltd.)

Goldberg Group 
10-storey apartment building currently occupying 525 Eglinton Avenue East/WND Associates
Rendering of 525 Eglinton Avenue East/Wallman Architects

The Mayfair West site and its surrounding context. (Grosvenor, Arcadis, Hariri Pontarini Architects)
Renderings of Mayfair West. (Grosvenor, Arcadis, Hariri Pontarini Architects)