Bill No. 276, submitted by the National Council to the Princely Government on 3 April 2026, could mark a significant development in the legal framework governing foreign structures owning real estate in the Principality.
Should it be enacted, the proposed reform may substantially alter the legal and tax regime applicable to foreign entities holding real estate assets in Monaco.
A legislative initiative reflecting enhanced transparency objectives
The proposed legislation seeks to establish a more comprehensive framework for foreign legal entities holding real property rights in the Principality.
Among the measures under consideration is the possibility for a foreign entity owning real estate in Monaco to transfer its registered office or domicile to the Principality while retaining its original legal personality, subject to compliance with the conditions set out in the proposed legislation.
Beyond this structural aspect, the bill reflects a clear policy objective of strengthening transparency regarding the identification of the beneficial owners of the entities concerned.
An unprecedented tax mechanism
The proposed legislation introduces an annual levy applicable to foreign entities owning real estate in Monaco that do not voluntarily disclose the identity of their beneficial owners.
The levy would be set at 1% of the market value of the real estate assets held, potentially resulting in a significant financial burden for certain holding and wealth-structuring arrangements.
To facilitate potential restructuring or compliance measures, the bill also contemplates a transitional regime providing for an exemption from registration duties for a limited period of three years.
What comes next?
At this stage, the proposal remains a bill and has not yet been enacted. The Princely Government has until 3 October 2026 to communicate its position and any observations on the proposed legislation.
While the outcome remains uncertain, the initiative nonetheless reflects the Principality’s continuing efforts to enhance transparency and strengthen beneficial ownership disclosure requirements.
Property owners and investors concerned may wish to assess the potential implications of the proposed measures and review, where appropriate, the suitability of their existing holding structures in light of the policy direction reflected in the bill.
The teams at Gordon S. Blair are closely monitoring developments and remain available to assist clients in assessing the legal, tax and wealth-planning implications of this proposed legislation.