One of the biggest myths about moving to Thailand is that foreigners can’t own anything.
You’ll often hear people say things like:
“Foreigners can’t buy property.”
“You can’t own a business.”
“Nothing can ever be in your name.”
The truth is far more complicated.
In reality, foreigners can legally own many things in Thailand.
However, there are also important restrictions that every expat should understand before making major financial decisions.
Unfortunately, many newcomers receive advice from:
- Facebook groups
- Forums
- Friends of friends
- Bar conversations
And while some of that advice may be well-intentioned, it isn’t always accurate.
This guide explains what foreigners can legally own in Thailand, what they cannot own, and where the common misunderstandings arise.
Understanding these rules can save you from making expensive mistakes later.
Why Ownership Rules Matter
Many expats arrive in Thailand expecting the legal system to work exactly like their home country.
It doesn’t.
Thailand has its own legal framework.
Its own property laws.
Its own business regulations.
Its own ownership rules.
None of this should scare you.
Thousands of foreigners successfully live, work, invest and retire in Thailand.
The key is understanding the rules before making decisions.
Tip & Hint
If somebody tells you “everyone does it this way”, treat that as a warning sign rather than reassurance.
Can Foreigners Own A Condominium?
Yes.
This is one of the most important things for new arrivals to understand.
Foreigners can legally own condominium units in Thailand under certain conditions.
This is why condominiums are the most common form of property ownership among expats.
In cities such as:
- Bangkok
- Pattaya
- Phuket
- Hua Hin
- Chiang Mai
foreign ownership of condominiums is extremely common.
Example Condominium Prices
Bangkok:
- Studio: 2–5 million THB
- One-bedroom: 3–10 million THB
- Luxury units: 10–50+ million THB
Phuket:
- One-bedroom: 3–10 million THB
- Luxury beachfront units: 10–100+ million THB
Chiang Mai:
- One-bedroom: 2–6 million THB
Tip & Hint
If your goal is straightforward property ownership, a condominium is usually the simplest route.
Can Foreigners Own Land?
Generally speaking:
No.
This is one of the most important restrictions in Thailand.
Foreigners cannot normally own land directly in their own name.
This surprises many newcomers.
Particularly those coming from countries where land ownership is unrestricted.
Because houses sit on land, this is where much of the confusion begins.
Why This Matters
Many people see a beautiful villa in Phuket or Hua Hin and assume they can purchase it in exactly the same way they would back home.
That is not normally how it works.
Professional legal advice becomes extremely important when land is involved.
Can Foreigners Own A House?
This question causes enormous confusion.
The answer is:
Sometimes, but not in the way many people expect.
The house itself and the land beneath it are two separate things.
The land ownership restrictions are what create complexity.
This is why legal advice is essential before entering into any property transaction involving houses.
Tip & Hint
Never assume that owning a house automatically means owning the land underneath it.
Can Foreigners Lease Land?
Yes.
Long-term lease arrangements are common in Thailand.
Many foreigners choose leasing rather than ownership.
Advantages include:
- Lower complexity
- Greater flexibility
- Reduced upfront commitment
However, every lease agreement should be reviewed carefully.
Questions to consider include:
- Lease duration
- Renewal options
- Exit terms
- Rights and obligations
Can Foreigners Own A Car?
Yes.
This is one of the simplest ownership categories.
Foreigners can own cars in Thailand.
Many expats purchase:
- Sedans
- SUVs
- Pickup trucks
Vehicle ownership is very common.
Example Car Prices
Economy car:
500,000–800,000 THB
Mid-range SUV:
1–2 million THB
Luxury vehicles:
2–10+ million THB
Tip & Hint
Insurance should always be considered alongside the purchase price.
Can Foreigners Own A Motorcycle?
Yes.
Motorcycle ownership is extremely common.
Thailand has a huge motorcycle culture.
Popular choices include:
- Scooters
- Adventure bikes
- Touring motorcycles
Example Motorcycle Prices
Scooters:
60,000–120,000 THB
Mid-range motorcycles:
150,000–400,000 THB
Large touring bikes:
500,000–1,500,000+ THB
Tip & Hint
Many newcomers underestimate the importance of proper motorcycle insurance.
Can Foreigners Open Bank Accounts?
Yes.
Many foreigners successfully open Thai bank accounts.
Requirements vary depending on:
- Visa type
- Location
- Bank branch
However, foreign account ownership is completely normal.
Popular banks include:
- Bangkok Bank
- Kasikornbank
- SCB
- Krungsri
Can Foreigners Own Shares In Thai Companies?
Yes.
However, this area becomes more complicated.
Business ownership structures can involve:
- Shareholders
- Directors
- Licensing requirements
The exact rules depend on the type of business.
Professional legal and accounting advice is strongly recommended.
Tip & Hint
Business ownership should never be structured based solely on advice from internet forums.
Can Foreigners Start Businesses?
Yes.
Thousands do.
Thailand has a large community of:
- Entrepreneurs
- Consultants
- Hospitality operators
- Technology businesses
However, business ownership and operation involve regulatory requirements.
Proper planning is essential.
Can Foreigners Own Intellectual Property?
Yes.
Examples include:
- Trademarks
- Copyrights
- Brand names
Many foreign business owners register intellectual property protections in Thailand.
Can Foreigners Own Investments?
Yes.
Foreigners commonly own:
- Investment portfolios
- International funds
- Overseas investments
- Pension assets
In fact, many expats maintain significant assets outside Thailand.
Tip & Hint
Understanding how your investments fit with your long-term plans is often more important than where the investments are physically located.
Can Foreigners Own Gold?
Yes.
Gold ownership is extremely common in Thailand.
Many people buy:
- Gold jewellery
- Gold bars
- Investment gold
Thailand has a long-standing culture of gold ownership.
Can Foreigners Own Businesses Online?
Many expats operate:
- E-commerce businesses
- Consulting firms
- Digital services
However, ownership and operational structures can vary significantly.
Professional advice is important before launching any business activity.
What About Boats?
Yes.
Foreigners can own boats and yachts.
Thailand has active boating communities in areas such as:
- Phuket
- Pattaya
- Koh Samui
Ownership rules vary depending on vessel type and registration requirements.
What About Pets?
Yes.
Foreigners can own pets.
Popular choices include:
- Dogs
- Cats
However, housing rules may restrict pet ownership in some condominiums.
Always check building regulations.
Tip & Hint
Pet-friendly properties can be harder to find than many newcomers expect.
Common Ownership Mistakes
Several mistakes appear repeatedly.
Believing Everything You Read Online
Ownership rules are often oversimplified.
Rushing Into Property Purchases
Excitement can be expensive.
Ignoring Professional Advice
Legal and financial guidance often costs far less than fixing mistakes.
Confusing Ownership With Control
These are not always the same thing.
Property Ownership And Retirement Planning
Many retirees arrive in Thailand intending to buy property immediately.
Before doing so, ask yourself:
- Will I stay here permanently?
- Would renting provide greater flexibility?
- How much liquidity should I retain?
Property should generally be considered within the context of your wider retirement plan.
Tip & Hint
A beautiful property does not automatically make a good retirement decision.
Healthcare Planning Matters Too
Many expats focus heavily on ownership and investments while overlooking healthcare.
Questions worth considering include:
- Do I have adequate health insurance?
- How will future healthcare costs be funded?
- What happens if my circumstances change?
These questions become increasingly important with age.
Education Planning For Families
Families often face future costs such as:
- International schools
- University funding
- Long-term savings goals
These should be considered alongside property and investment decisions.
Wealth Management And Ownership
Ownership decisions are rarely isolated.
Buying a condo affects:
- Cash flow
- Liquidity
- Retirement planning
Starting a business affects:
- Risk
- Tax planning
- Asset protection
The most successful long-term plans usually consider the bigger picture.
Need Professional Guidance?
If you’re reviewing:
- Retirement planning
- Wealth management
- Property decisions
- Education funding
- Long-term financial security
you may wish to speak with:
Lawrence Young
Senior Wealth Manager
Holborn Assets
Email: lawrence.young@holbornassets.com
Particularly if you’re trying to balance ownership decisions with wider financial goals.
Search Just Landed In Thailand First
Before making major ownership decisions, explore the resources available through Just Landed In Thailand.
You’ll find information covering:
- Lawyers
- Accountants
- Property professionals
- Insurance providers
- Financial advisers
These resources can help you make better-informed decisions and avoid common mistakes.
Final Thoughts
Foreigners can own far more in Thailand than many people realise.
You can own:
- Condominiums
- Cars
- Motorcycles
- Bank accounts
- Investments
- Businesses (subject to regulations)
- Intellectual property
- Gold
- Boats
However, important restrictions also exist.
Particularly when it comes to land ownership.
Understanding the difference between what you can own and what you cannot own is one of the most important parts of building a successful life in Thailand.
Take your time.
Ask questions.
Seek professional advice.
And make sure major decisions are based on facts rather than assumptions.
Thailand offers tremendous opportunities for expatriates.
The key is understanding the rules before you commit your money.
