Foreign Ownership Rights

One of the most frequently asked questions is: Can a Foreign National own land outright? The answer is No. Furthermore, they cannot own more than 49% of the shares in a Thai company that owns freehold land but there are legal ways, within the Thai company structure, that will allow a foreigner to exercise sole control over the Thai company and their investment.

A Foreigner is, however, allowed to own a building distinct from the land, which coupled together with a renewable registered 30 year leasehold is regarded by many as being as good as owning the freehold.

Freehold vs Leasehold

Now, there are many questions asked as to which method is better and there are relevant arguments made for both cases.

Since foreigners cannot own land outright, registered leaseholds with appropriate extensions are equivalent to freehold. Registered Leaseholds are safe, uncomplicated and easy to setup.

For those who are not comfortable with Leasehold, the Freehold method of ownership means that the Thai company that you control owns the property.