Buying a Condominium in Thailand Under Foreign Ownership

by Stay Pattaya Team on June 15, 2026

Buying a Condominium in Thailand Under Foreign Ownership (Foreign Quota)

One of the most attractive aspects of Thailand’s property market is that foreign nationals can legally own condominium units in their own name.

This form of ownership is known as Foreign Freehold Ownership and is the most secure and straightforward way for foreigners to own property in Thailand.

What Is Foreign Quota?

Under Thai law, up to 49% of the total saleable area of a condominium project may be owned by foreign nationals.

If foreign quota is still available in a condominium, a foreign buyer can register the ownership directly in their own name at the Land Office.

The ownership is permanent and can later be sold, transferred, inherited, or gifted according to Thai law.

Requirements for Foreign Buyers

To purchase a condominium under foreign quota, the buyer must transfer funds from outside Thailand in foreign currency.

The funds must be sent specifically for the purchase of the condominium and properly documented by the receiving Thai bank.

The bank will issue a Foreign Exchange Transaction Form (FET Form) or equivalent supporting documents required for ownership registration.

Registration Process

The typical purchase process includes:

1. Reservation Agreement

The buyer reserves the property and pays a booking fee.

2. Sales and Purchase Agreement

Both parties sign the purchase agreement outlining payment terms and transfer conditions.

3. International Funds Transfer

The purchase funds are transferred from overseas into Thailand according to legal requirements.

4. Ownership Transfer at the Land Office

The ownership is officially registered, and the buyer receives a condominium title deed (Chanote) showing their name as the legal owner.

Transfer Fees and Taxes

Transfer fees and taxes are usually shared between buyer and seller according to the agreement.

The exact costs depend on factors such as ownership period, property value, and whether the seller is an individual or a company.

Advantages of Foreign Freehold Ownership

✔ Full ownership registered in the buyer’s own name

✔ No lease renewal concerns

✔ Easy resale process

✔ Can be inherited by heirs

✔ Widely accepted by banks, lawyers, and developers

✔ Strong legal protection under Thai property law

Important Considerations

Before purchasing a condominium, buyers should verify:

• Foreign quota availability within the project

• Ownership history and title documentation

• Outstanding maintenance fees

• Building management and common area conditions

• Transfer costs and taxes

A professional legal review is always recommended before completing a purchase.

Why Pattaya?

Pattaya remains one of Thailand’s most popular destinations for foreign property buyers thanks to:

• Competitive property prices

• Modern condominium developments

• International community

• Excellent infrastructure

• Strong rental demand

• Convenient access to Bangkok and Suvarnabhumi Airport

Whether you are purchasing a holiday home, a retirement residence, or an investment property, foreign freehold condominiums remain one of the safest and most popular options available in Thailand.

For assistance with condominium purchases, ownership verification, and property viewings, contact the Stay Pattaya Team.