Research & Development
Here we have a few modules that might not be ready for prime-time, but are here for research purposes.
Country Guide
Thailand has specific regulations regarding foreign property ownership. While foreigners cannot directly own land, they can own condominiums and lease land long-term.
Foreigners can buy land
Foreigners can buy property
Foreigners can rent out property
Foreign corporations can buy property
Legal Notes
Land Code Act - Thai Civil and Commercial Law
- In general, foreigners are not allowed to own land in Thailand, but there are some exceptions.
- Treaties: Foreigners can own land if a treaty gives them the right to do so, but Thailand is not currently a party to any such treaties.
- Industrial estates: Foreign operators can own land in industrial estates.
- Investment promotion certificates: Foreign investors in certain projects can apply for a promotion certificate, which allows them to own land for the project.
- Residential land: Foreigners who meet certain requirements can own up to 1600 square meters of land for residential purposes in specific areas.
- Foreigners can own buildings, but there are some restrictions for condominiums. Foreigners can own a condominium unit if it's in a project in a municipal jurisdiction like Bangkok, Pattaya, or Phuket, and the land is less than 5 rai. Foreigners can't own more than 49% of the total area of condominium units in a building.
- Leasing - Foreigners can hold property interests through long-term leases, which can be up to 30 years long and renewable for another 30 years.
- Corporate structures - Foreigners can hold property interests through corporate structures, but using nominee corporate structures to circumvent the law is considered criminal. Foreigners who violate Thailand's land ownership restrictions could face fines and/or up to two years in jail.
