Home swaps (permuta) in Cuba under Law 187
Short answer
A permuta is a home swap — exchanging one home for another (or for other goods or rights). Under Law 187 it is signed before a notary in the home’s province once the home is registered, and the parties may agree a cash top-up as long as it does not distort the swap (arts. 96–97).
What a permuta is
Article 96 of Law 187 allows a home to be swapped for one or more homes, or for other goods or rights.
- It is not the same as a sale: the main object is the exchange.
- A cash top-up is allowed (art. 97.3) if its value does not turn the deal into a disguised sale.
- Swaps with tenants or usufructuaries of State homes follow an administrative route (art. 98).
Typical steps
- Check titles and registration for both homes.
- Agree whether there is a cash top-up and how it is paid (non-cash).
- Sign before a notary in the province of the home, as the notary directs.
- Register the new titles in the Central Property Registry.
How it differs from a sale
- In a sale the price is central; in a permuta the exchange is.
- Tax and cadastral value still matter when there is a cash differential — confirm with the notary.
- Sales to foreigners are clearly opened by art. 89; swaps involving a non-resident still need a case-by-case answer from the notary.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swap with a cash top-up?
Yes. Art. 97.3 allows agreed compensation if it does not distort the swap.
Is a notary required?
Yes. It is signed before a notary in the home’s province once the home is registered (art. 97.1).
Can a foreigner do a permuta?
Sales to foreigners are open (art. 89). For a swap, confirm your case with the notary.
Law 187 explained · Foreign-buyer guide · Steps and taxes
General information, not legal advice. Last reviewed: .