Can Foreigners Own Land in Thailand?
Yes – but not directly in your own name.
Thai law does not allow foreigners to own freehold land directly. However, there are legal and widely used alternatives that allow you to control or use land long-term:
- Leasehold – You can lease land for 30 years, with options to renew. This is a legal and common structure used by foreigners who want to build a home or run a business.
- Thai Company Ownership – Foreigners can set up a Thai majority company to purchase land. The company must be at least 51% Thai-owned. This must be done properly with legal support to avoid issues.
- Through a Thai Spouse – If you're married to a Thai national, they can legally own the land. You can own the house and sign an agreement confirming the land belongs to your Thai partner.
Can Foreigners Own Condominiums in Thailand?
Yes – 100% freehold ownership is allowed.
Foreigners can fully own a condominium unit in their own name as long as the total foreign ownership in the building doesn’t exceed 49% of the total unit area. This is the easiest and most secure way for foreigners to buy property in Thailand.
To register the condo purchase, the funds must be sent from overseas in foreign currency, with a document called a Foreign Exchange Transaction Form (FET).
Can Foreigners Own a House or Villa in Thailand?
Yes – but not the land under it.
You are allowed to own the physical building, such as a house or villa, even if you cannot directly own the land. The typical setup is:
- Lease the land for 30 years or more
- Own the building in your name
Make sure the lease is registered with the Land Department and clearly defines your rights.
Can Foreigners Own Land via BOI (Board of Investment)?
Yes – in special cases with BOI promotion.
Thailand's Board of Investment (BOI) offers incentives for foreign investors and businesses in certain promoted industries (e.g. tech, manufacturing, R&D, hospitality). If your company receives BOI promotion, it may be allowed to:
- Coworking promotion
- Own land for business operations
- In some cases, own land for personal residence (e.g. for company directors)
However, this option is not available for general private use or casual property investment. You must apply and be approved for BOI promotion based on your business activity and contribution to the Thai economy.
Are There Taxes or Fees for Foreign Property Owners?
Yes – but they’re generally low.
- There’s no annual property tax for personal residential use (as of 2025).
- Small yearly maintenance or common area fees may apply (especially for condos or gated villas).
- Transfer fees and stamp duty apply at the time of purchase – your lawyer or agent can explain this in detail.
✅ Summary: Foreign Ownership in Thailand
Property TypeCan Foreigners Own It?
Land
✅ Yes – through lease or Thai entity
House/Villa
✅ Yes – own the house, lease the land, or Thai entity
Condominium
✅ Yes – 100% freehold allowed
Final Tips
- Always use a trusted property lawyer to check contracts, company structures, and title deeds.
- Do your due diligence before making a purchase.
- Thailand’s property market is full of opportunities – just make sure you follow the right path.