Can Foreigners Own Condos in Thailand?

Yes. Thailand is one of the few countries in Southeast Asia where foreigners can own condominium units outright under freehold title. The key restriction: foreign ownership in any single building is capped at 49% of the total sellable area. Once that quota is full, you can only buy from another foreign owner or explore leasehold options.

Freehold vs Leasehold: What is the Difference?

Freehold: You own the unit permanently. Your name goes on the title deed (chanote). This is the preferred option and available within the 49% foreign quota.
Leasehold: You lease the unit for up to 30 years, sometimes with renewal options. Common for units where the foreign quota is full, or for landed property (houses, villas) which foreigners cannot own.

The Buying Process Step by Step

1. Find a unit: Search online, visit developments, or use AI-powered platforms like ThaiCondoAI to match your criteria
2. Reserve: Pay a reservation fee (typically ฿50,000–200,000) to take the unit off the market
3. Due diligence: Verify the foreign quota status, check the title deed, review the building's financials
4. Transfer funds: Wire purchase funds from overseas in foreign currency to a Thai bank account. The bank issues a Foreign Exchange Transaction Form (FETF) — this is mandatory for freehold registration
5. Sign and transfer: Sign the sale agreement at the Land Department office. Transfer fees (typically 2% of appraised value) are usually split between buyer and seller

Costs Beyond the Purchase Price

Transfer fee: 2% of appraised value
Specific business tax: 3.3% (if seller owned less than 5 years)
Stamp duty: 0.5% (if SBT does not apply)
Common area maintenance: ฿40–80 per sqm per month
Sinking fund: One-time payment of ฿400–800 per sqm

Renting as a Foreigner

Renting is simpler. No foreign quota restrictions apply — you can rent any unit regardless of ownership ratios. Standard lease terms are 12 months with a 2-month deposit. You need a passport and valid visa; a work permit is not required for renting.

Best Cities for Foreign Condo Buyers and Renters

Bangkok: Largest selection, best transport, highest liquidity for resale. Prime areas: Sukhumvit, Silom, Ari
Pattaya: Popular with retirees and investors. Lower prices, beachfront options. Prime areas: Jomtien, Wongamat, Pratumnak
Chiang Mai: Digital nomad hub. Affordable, mountain lifestyle. Prime areas: Nimman, Old City, Riverside
Phuket: Resort island living. Higher prices but strong rental yields. Prime areas: Patong, Kamala, Rawai
Hua Hin: Quieter beach town popular with families and retirees. 2.5 hours from Bangkok

Visa Considerations

Owning property in Thailand does not grant you a visa or residency. You still need a valid visa to stay long-term. Common options for property owners:

Retirement visa (O-A): For those 50+ with proof of funds
Thailand Elite visa: 5–20 year visa, starts at ฿600,000
Digital nomad visa (DTV): For remote workers, valid up to 5 years
Business visa (B): If you work for a Thai company

Thailand's condo market is accessible to foreigners, but the details matter. Understand the quota system, budget for all costs, and work with reputable agents or platforms to avoid surprises.