Your Guide to Buying a Condo in Thailand as a Foreigner
Last updated: 8 May 2025
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Article: Buying a Condo in Thailand
What Foreigners Need to Know About Property Laws and Rights
Thailand is a popular destination for foreigners who want to invest in property, with many choosing to buy condos as a long-term investment or residence. However, there are legal considerations and restrictions that foreigners must understand before making a purchase.
Can Foreigners Buy a Condo in Thailand?
Yes, foreigners can purchase a condo in Thailand, but there are important legal conditions under the Condominium Act B.E. 2522 (1979). Foreigners can own up to 49% of the total area in a condominium project.
Key conditions:
The Process of Buying a Condo for Foreigners
1. Choose a condo project that has not exceeded the 49% foreign ownership limit.
2. Transfer funds from abroad and obtain the FET certificate.
3. Sign the Sale and Purchase Agreement.
4. Complete payment and register the transfer of ownership at the Land Department.
5. Check for applicable taxes such as transfer fees, income tax, and specific business tax (if applicable).
️ Important Considerations When Buying a Condo in Thailand
Foreign Ownership of Land in Thailand
Foreigners cannot own land in Thailand, except in specific cases such as:
What Foreigners Need to Know About Property Laws and Rights
Thailand is a popular destination for foreigners who want to invest in property, with many choosing to buy condos as a long-term investment or residence. However, there are legal considerations and restrictions that foreigners must understand before making a purchase.
Can Foreigners Buy a Condo in Thailand?
Yes, foreigners can purchase a condo in Thailand, but there are important legal conditions under the Condominium Act B.E. 2522 (1979). Foreigners can own up to 49% of the total area in a condominium project.
Key conditions:
- The funds used to purchase the condo must be transferred from abroad in foreign currency.
- A Foreign Exchange Transaction Form (FET) must be obtained from a Thai bank to confirm the transfer.
- The name on the bank transfer must match the name of the condo owner.
The Process of Buying a Condo for Foreigners
1. Choose a condo project that has not exceeded the 49% foreign ownership limit.
2. Transfer funds from abroad and obtain the FET certificate.
3. Sign the Sale and Purchase Agreement.
4. Complete payment and register the transfer of ownership at the Land Department.
5. Check for applicable taxes such as transfer fees, income tax, and specific business tax (if applicable).
️ Important Considerations When Buying a Condo in Thailand
- Avoid projects that do not have a valid Condo License.
- Ensure the foreign ownership quota is available and clearly stated.
- Read the contract carefully and consult a lawyer for review.
- Do not use a Thai nationals name to hold the property for you this is illegal and can result in penalties.
Foreign Ownership of Land in Thailand
Foreigners cannot own land in Thailand, except in specific cases such as:
- A minimum investment of 40 million THB (under certain circumstances, foreigners may be allowed to hold land for residential purposes, limited to 1 rai).
- Long-term lease agreements (30 years, renewable).
- Forming a Thai company (with a legally compliant shareholder structure).
Caution: Using a nominee or Thai national to indirectly hold land is illegal and can result in confiscation of property and criminal charges.
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