How to buy Land in Thailand as a Foreigner? | Step by step guide

Nora Lwin Feb 28, 2025 5:57:05 AM

Buying Land in Thailand as a foreigner can be an attractive opportunity, as the country offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and investment potential. Thailand has strict laws preventing foreigners from directly owning land.With this step-by-step guide you'll be all set for success investing in the Thailand real estate market. However, there are four legal ways for foreigners to acquire land or property in Thailand.

Legal Ways for Foreigners to Buy Land in Thailand

1-Leasehold Agreement (Up to 30 Years) – Most Common Method

Foreigners can lease land for 30 years, with the option to renew for another 30 years.
The lease must be registered at the Land Office to be legally valid.
This method allows full control over the land, but ownership remains with the Thai landlord.

2-Buying Land Through a Thai Company

A foreigner can set up a Thai Limited Company (where Thai nationals own at least 51% of shares) to purchase land.
The foreigner can hold 49% of shares and have majority control as a director.
The company must be legally operating and not just created for land ownership (to avoid legal issues).

3-Investment Route (BOI Approval – Rare)

The Board of Investment (BOI) may allow land ownership if a foreigner invests at least 40 million THB in approved business projects.
The maximum land size permitted is 1 rai (1,600 sqm) for residential use.

4-Owning a Condominium (Alternative to Buying Land)

Foreigners can fully own a condominium in Thailand, provided that:
The condo is in a building where at least 51% of units are Thai-owned.
The purchase funds come from overseas.

As a Foreign Investor, here are Important Considerations:

Land Title Deed: Ensure the land has a Chanote title deed (most secure).
Lawyer Assistance: Always hire a lawyer to review contracts and avoid scams.
Legal Compliance: Thai authorities monitor foreign land purchases to prevent illegal ownership structures.

Steps to Buy Land (Through Lease or Company Ownership)

Find a Suitable Land Plot – Research the area and check zoning laws.
Due Diligence – Hire a lawyer to verify the land title deed and check for legal issues.
Sign Lease or Company Ownership Agreement – Ensure contracts are legally valid.
Register with the Land Office – Lease agreements or company purchases must be registered.
Pay Transfer Fees & Taxes – Costs vary based on land value and ownership structure.