Foreign buyers
What international buyers need to know before buying a home in Thailand
What international buyers need to know before buying a home in Thailand
What international buyers need to know before buying a home in Thailand
Thai law gives foreign buyers several established ways to hold property. Our brokers in Thailand explain the options, and your own lawyer advises on the choice:
Foreign buyers can hold a condominium unit directly in their own name with full freehold title, as long as foreign ownership stays within 49% of the development's total private area.
A registered long-term lease (typically a 30-year term, with renewal terms set out in the contract), often used for private villas.
A Thai limited company that is set up with a lawyer's guidance and complies with Thai law can buy land and houses.
Have these documents ready so that the purchase is not delayed:
Valid passport
Non-immigrant visa (recommended)
Foreign Exchange Transaction (FET) forms (for funds transferred from abroad)
Proof of funds or certified proof of financial standing
Tax identification number (where applicable)
Key limits to keep in mind when planning your purchase:
Freehold land title held directly in a personal name is reserved for Thai nationals and Thai entities (with a few specific legal exceptions)
Foreign freehold ownership is capped at 49% of a condominium's total registered area
A company that buys property must keep the Thai shareholding ratio required by law
Coastal and island areas are subject to specific zoning and environmental rules
At Sabai Real Estate, our brokers in Thailand assist you at each stage of your purchase:
A search for homes that match your requirements and budget
An overview of the ownership structures to discuss with your own lawyer and tax adviser
Help preparing the documents the transaction requires
Coordination of property due diligence, zoning checks and building inspections
Introductions to independent property lawyers and coordination with the lawyer you choose