Real Estate: Ownership Options for Foreigners

To understand the available property ownership options for foreigners in Thailand, it is first necessary to determine the type of real estate. Each type has its own features, legal framework, and restrictions.

1. Condominium

A residential complex consisting of:

private property (individual units)
common property (green areas, shared facilities)

Each unit is registered under a separate title deed (chanote).

Foreigners are allowed to purchase condominium units, but within the foreign quota — no more than 49% of the total residential area of the project.

2. Buildings

This category includes:

residential houses
villas
townhouses
apartments
commercial properties (offices, retail spaces, etc.)

Ownership documentation:

initially — construction permit issued in the name of the first owner
subsequently — sale and purchase agreements

Foreigners can own buildings without owning the land beneath them (for example, a house without the land).

3. Land plots

Land plots are registered with individual title documents such as:

Chanote
Nor Sor 3 Gor
and others

Foreigners are generally prohibited from owning land, except in specific cases предусмотренных законом or international agreements.

Available alternative: Leasehold

Leasing — both short-term and long-term — is available to foreigners for all types of property.

For example:

leasing a condominium unit
leasing a house with land
leasing land for business or construction (subject to compliance with legal requirements)

Conclusion

The choice of ownership structure depends on the type of property and the investor’s goals. Understanding legal limitations in advance is essential for making a secure and compliant investment.