Ownership Guide
Property Ownership Options for Foreign Buyers in Thailand
There are several secure, legally recognised ways for foreigners to own and use property in Thailand. Here are the most common structures we help our buyers navigate.
1
Company Ownership
Some foreigners choose to use a Thai company structure to hold property in Thailand. In many cases, this option makes the most sense when there is also a genuine business activity or a long-term business plan behind the company.
2
Long-Term Land Lease
With a lease structure, the land is leased through a registered long-term agreement – typically for 30 years, with options for renewal depending on the agreement. This option is commonly used to secure long-term land usage rights.
3
Superficies / House Ownership Rights
A registered Superficies agreement allows foreigners to own a house separately from the land itself. This means the house can be legally owned by the buyer even if the land is not directly purchased.
The land remains under the ownership of the registered land owner while the house owner is protected through registered legal agreements.
The land remains under the ownership of the registered land owner while the house owner is protected through registered legal agreements.
4
Usufruct / Right of Use
A registered Usufruct agreement gives foreigners the legal right to use and benefit from land or property even if they are not the direct owner of the land.
Depending on the chosen structure, these rights can be registered for an agreed period or for lifetime use. This option is commonly used when buyers are looking for long-term living rights, additional protection, or more flexible long-term living arrangements.
Depending on the chosen structure, these rights can be registered for an agreed period or for lifetime use. This option is commonly used when buyers are looking for long-term living rights, additional protection, or more flexible long-term living arrangements.
Summary
We understand that ownership structures in Thailand can feel complicated at first. That is why our team guides buyers step by step throughout the entire process, helping them find the solution that best suits their individual goals.
We believe that people buy from people they trust.
Please visit us for a personal conversation. We take the time to answer questions openly and transparently, and work together to find the right solution for you.
Frequently asked questions
Can a foreigner buy a house in Thailand?
Yes. Foreigners can't own land directly, but they can legally own the house itself and secure long-term rights to the land through a registered lease, superficies, usufruct or a Thai company. Nationality makes no difference to these rules.
Can a foreigner own the house but not the land?
Yes. The building can be owned outright and registered separately from the land, usually combined with a lease, superficies or usufruct over the land.
What is a long-term land lease in Thailand?
A lease registered at the Land Office that gives you the right to use the land for up to 30 years per registration, while you own the house on it. Renewal options can be written into the contract, but Thai law doesn't guarantee them.
What is superficies?
A registered right (สิทธิเหนือพื้นดิน) to own a building on land that belongs to someone else, for up to 30 years or for the holder's lifetime.
What is usufruct?
A registered right (สิทธิเก็บกิน) to use and enjoy a property for up to 30 years or for the holder's lifetime, without owning the land.
Can a foreigner buy property through a Thai company?
It's possible, but foreigners can hold at most 49% of a Thai company that owns land, and using Thai nominee shareholders to get around this is illegal. The company needs genuine Thai shareholders and real business activity, so get independent legal advice first.
Which ownership option is right for me?
It depends on your age, family situation and plans for the property. Many buyers combine owning the house with a lease or superficies over the land. Our team explains the options, and we recommend confirming your choice with an independent lawyer.
This is general information, not legal advice. Thai property law can change — please confirm with a qualified lawyer.