Can Foreigners Buy Apartments in Thailand?

A common question we hear is: Can foreigners buy apartments in
Thailand? The short answer is yes, but there are rules and conditions you’ll
need to understand before making a purchase.

This guide explains everything about foreigners buying apartments in Thailand — from ownership laws and payment rules to the buying process. And if you’re serious about exploring the market, it’s smart to start with a trusted advisor like Prime Property Thailand, who offer free guidance to international buyers.

Can Foreigners Buy Apartments in Thailand Under Thai Law?

Foreign nationals cannot directly own land in Thailand, but apartments and condominiums are the exception. Under the Condominium Act,
foreigners are allowed to own units provided that:

Foreign ownership does not exceed 49% of the total sellable space in a
development.

• Purchases follow the proper legal and financial transfer procedures.
  
• This means a foreigner can legally buy and hold an apartment (condo unit) on a freehold basis, or opt for a leasehold agreement (up to 30
  years, often renewable). These options make condos and apartments the easiest
  path to real estate ownership in Thailand for non-citizens.
  

Steps for Foreigners Buying an Apartment in Thailand: What Are the Steps and Requirements?

If you’re ready to explore how foreigners can buy apartmentsin Thailand, here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

Select your apartment – Decide whether it’s for living or investment. Consider
location, amenities, and transport links.

1. Confirm the foreign quota – Ensure the project has space within the 49% foreign
   ownership cap. The selling agent can advise, as can the building's own juristic office which you are free to contact at any time.
2. Reserve the unit – Pay a reservation fee (usually a couple of hundred dollars) and provide your passport to lock in the apartment.
3. Ownership transfer – Finalize the transaction at the Land Office, where the title
   deed is issued in your name. This is easy but needs to be done locally in Thai language. We are happy to provide an assist with this if required - drop us a a message and we can share where your local land registry office is located.
   
4. Ownership Structures Available to Foreigners
   

Freehold ownership – Direct purchase of an apartment within the 49% quota.

• Leasehold agreements – Long-term leases of up to 30 years, renewable.
• Thai spouse ownership – Registering the apartment under a Thai spouse’s name
  (with supporting documentation).
• Company ownership – Setting up a Thai majority-owned company that holds the
  property (this is more complicated and prone to issues, please call us to discuss further; we can provide this service through an approved legal parter to protect you against any potential future mishaps).
  
• Each path has different requirements, so professional advice is recommended. The condo purchase route however is safe, fast, easy, legal, and the option most of us choose.
  

How Foreigners Pay for Apartments in Thailand

Foreigners must transfer funds from abroad to comply with Thai law. Payments typically occur in three stages:

Reservation fee – Paid via card or international transfer.

1. Down payment – Often 20–30% of the unit price.
2. Final balance – Paid via international bank transfer in foreign currency.
   
3. The receiving Thai bank issues a Foreign ExchangeTransaction (FET) form, which is required for ownership registration.
   

Can Foreigners Buy Other Property Types in Thailand?

While apartments are the most straightforward option, foreigners often ask whether they can own houses or land. Generally, direct land ownership is restricted, but exceptions exist:

Investment program – Foreigners investing 40 million THB or more for at least five
years may qualify to own up to one rai (1,600 sqm) of land for residential
use in somecertain approved areas.

• Marriage to a Thai citizen – Land may be purchased in the spouse’s name.
• Leases – Long-term land or house leases of up to 30 years.
  
• Still, condos and apartments remain the easiest and safest option for foreign buyers.
  

Recommended Apartments for Foreign Buyers

If you’re asking “Can foreigners buy apartments in Thailand— and where?” the best approach is to consult with an experienced in-market specialist. Rather than jumping straight into listings (which you should do for sure, for fun, knowledge aquisition, and to get a feel of what is available and in which neighborhood area, vebe, etc.), working with a professional ensures you understand the regulations, ownership options, and
payment process before committing any further.

We recommend starting with Prime Property Thailand (of course! We’re free and always online, so book a consult at https://www.prime-property-thailand.com)… we’re a trusted agency that provides free advice and tailored guidance for
foreign buyers. Our team can help you identify the right apartment, navigate
legal requirements, and secure a smooth, compliant purchase.

Final Thoughts: Can Foreigners Buy Apartments in Thailand?

While land laws remain restrictive, apartments and condos offer a clear, legal path to ownership. By following the 49% rule, transferring funds correctly, and choosing the right structure, foreigners can secure both a lifestyle base and a sound investment.

What happens if the apartment I am trying to buy falls outside of the 49% quota?

The worst case scenario is that the sale will not complete as the Land Registry will not authorise the transfer. You will not be required to pay any fees until the sale is through, and so even in the worst case, the most negative outcome is that you will have wasted a couple of weeks of effort. In all honesty though, we've never heard of a sale falling through due to reasons of 49% foreign condo ownership in Thailand; agents only list genuine units because no-one ... not agent, not buyer, not seller, not condo juristic office manager, not local government Land Register officer ... want to get it wrong.

Just perform the required process of due dilliegence before purchase, just as you would in UK, USA, Australia, Turkey, France, or Germany.

For a smooth experience, connect with a specialist like Prime Property Thailand, who can simplify the process with expert insights and free, no-obligation advice. Whether you’re buying for personal use or rental income, the right partner will help you avoid mistakes and maximize your investment or joy from your new Thai property. At the end of the day, our main business focus is in helping people avoid the cost of living crisis in Western countries, and so we want everything to be as simple, clear, easy and exciting as possible.

For more information, email david@prime-property-thailand.com