Foreign companies can own certain types of property in Thailand, but with strict limitations. Here’s what you need to know:
| Property Type | Can Foreign Company Own It? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Condominium Units | ✅ Yes (up to 49% of total units) | Must comply with the Condominium Act |
| Land | ❌ Generally not allowed | Very rare exceptions exist (see below) |
| Buildings (not land) | ✅ Yes | Can own the structure but not the land beneath |
| Leased Land | ✅ Yes (max 30 years) | Renewable leases often used in practice |
Foreign companies may own land in Thailand only if:
⚠️ These exceptions do not apply to residential or holiday homes. They are only for industrial or commercial use.
Many people try to set up a “Thai” company where:
🔴 Warning: This is illegal if the Thai shareholders are not real investors. It violates the Foreign Business Act and may result in:
| Option | How It Works | Legal? |
|---|---|---|
| Leasehold | Sign a 30-year lease (renewable) | ✅ Legal |
| Own condo units | Buy within the 49% foreign quota | ✅ Legal |
| BOI/IEAT company land | Use for industrial activity | ✅ Legal (but not residential) |
| Structure ownership | Own building, lease land | ✅ Legal |
Foreign companies:
Have questions about structuring a property purchase through your company — or want to explore the safest legal route?
Corporate property ownership in Thailand has its legitimate pathways, but also its pitfalls, and getting the structure right from the start is essential. Whether you’re a business looking to acquire commercial space, or a foreign-owned entity exploring your options, we’re happy to point you in the right direction and connect you with experienced legal professionals who specialise in this area.
📧 Email:
💬 WhatsApp: +66 95 992 0345
🔵 Line: https://lin.ee/NNRglgs
