Thailand is one of the most attractive destinations for foreign investors looking to purchase real estate. Thanks to affordable prices and a steady rental income supported by a strong tourism industry, buying property here has become a smart and profitable decision. The country offers a wide variety of investment opportunities, allowing foreigners to find properties suited to their goals — whether for personal residence or income generation.

But is it possible to purchase property in Thailand if you are not a Thai resident? Can the entire process be done remotely from abroad? The answer is yes — purchasing property in Thailand as a foreigner is a completely legal process that can be completed without being physically present, from the initial booking to final registration. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key aspects of buying real estate in Thailand and provide you with the essential knowledge to complete your transaction with confidence.

Ownership Options: Leasehold & Freehold

Thailand welcomes foreign investment, but local laws do impose certain restrictions on foreign buyers. It’s important to know the following:

✔️ The funds used for the purchase must be transferred from abroad in foreign currency
✔️ Foreigners cannot own land in Thailand under freehold, but may lease land long-term (leasehold). Full freehold ownership is allowed only for the building itself.
✔️ Foreigners can purchase freehold condominium units, but only up to 49% of the total floor area of a condominium building (the “foreign quota”).

Most international investors prefer freehold ownership, as it guarantees full ownership rights and the ability to freely sell, rent, or transfer the property. However, buying a freehold unit may come with additional costs — many developers charge a so-called “freehold premium” for foreign ownership.

At the same time, leasehold purchases can be a cost-effective alternative, as they usually come with a lower overall price and reduced registration fees. Understanding these distinctions can help you make the most appropriate choice for your needs and avoid potential legal complications.

Buying Property in Thailand with Leasehold Rights

Purchasing property under a leasehold agreement means that you obtain the right to use the property for a long-term period — typically up to 30 years, with possible extensions. However, legal ownership remains with the landlord. That said, leaseholders still enjoy full usage rights and can transfer the lease to another person if the agreement allows.

Leasehold properties generally involve lower registration costs compared to freehold ownership. To reduce risks, it’s advisable to lease property from a limited company rather than from an individual owner.

Buying a Condominium in Thailand with Freehold Rights

Acquiring a property under freehold means the buyer receives full, unrestricted ownership of the unit. The buyer’s name is officially recorded on the title deed (chanote), which is registered with the Thai Land Department.