FAQs

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Thailand

Thailand remains one of the world’s top destinations for living, retirement, and investment thanks to its low cost of living, strong tourism, and growing economy. In current Thailand major infrastructure projects—high-speed rail, airport expansions—and talks of easing foreign ownership rules continue to strengthen the property market. Understanding Thailand’s legal framework is essential for any foreign buyer.

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What Foreigners Can and Cannot Own

Foreigners generally cannot own land under the Land Code Act. This leaves two main options:

• Foreigners may own up to 49% of a condo building’s total floor area.

• Purchase funds must come from abroad and be documented via an FETF.

• You own the unit plus a share of common areas.
→ The simplest, safest ownership route.

Houses and Land (Indirect Ownership)
 Because foreigners can’t own land, they use one of these structures:

Leasehold (Typical Choice)

• Up to 30-year registered lease, often with 30+30 renewal clauses.
• You may own the building via a Right of Superficies.

Thai Company Ownership

• A Thai-majority company owns the land.

• Must follow strict compliance; suitable only when the company has a real business purpose.

Condo vs. Villa
Freehold Condo: Simple, secure ownership, easy to sell, and ideal for investors.

Leasehold Villa: Best for those wanting land, space, and privacy, offering a long-term right to use and own the structure.

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Buying Process

Due Diligence (1–4 weeks): Hire a lawyer, check the title deed (Chanote), verify the condo foreign quota.
Reservation: Sign agreement + pay small deposit.
Sales & Purchase Agreement: Finalize terms; pay 10–25%.
Foreign Funds Transfer: Send money from abroad and obtain FETF.
Transfer at Land Department: Pay taxes/fees, register ownership or lease.

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Costs & Taxes

Typical closing costs: 2.5%–6.5%.
Key fees:

• Transfer Fee: 2%

• SBT: 3.3% (if sold within 5 years or by a company)

• Stamp Duty: 0.5%

• WHT: Based on appraisal value
. Annual land/building tax is low—often only a few thousand THB for condos.

Financing & Repatriation


Foreign mortgages exist, but often require large down payments or collateral.
Many buyers finance abroad or pay cash.

Keep the FETF for future resale—this is required to repatriate proceeds legally.