For many foreigners, owning a dream home in Phuket is a lifelong goal. Whether you’re looking for a holiday villa, an investment condo, or a permanent residence, understanding Thai property laws is essential. Foreigners can’t own land in Thailand outright, but there are several safe, legal ways to acquire property — especially in Phuket’s well-regulated real estate market.

Let’s explore the key options, restrictions, and best practices for foreigners buying property in Phuket.

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Phuket?

Yes, foreigners can legally buy certain types of property in Phuket — most commonly condominiums and leasehold villas. However, there are restrictions when it comes to land ownership.

1. Buying a Condominium in Phuket

This is the easiest and most straightforward option for foreign buyers.

Key Rules:

  • Foreigners can own up to 49% of the total saleable area in any registered condo development (Foreign Freehold quota).

  • Ownership is freehold and fully registered at the Land Office.

  • You must remit funds from overseas in foreign currency (with the correct documentation – FETF form) to be eligible.

You can read more about all the advantages of buying condominiums here: 

The Benefits and Advantages of Owning a Freehold Condominium in Thailand

You can take a look at some of the condominiums for sale in Phuket here:

View:Phuket Condos for Sale

2. Leasehold Villas – A Popular Option

Foreigners cannot own land directly, but can lease land and own the structure (villa or house) built on it.

Key Features:

  • Lease terms of 30 years, with renewal clauses for up to 90 years.

  • Structures can be registered as foreign-owned.

  • Leasehold villas are common in resort developments and gated communities.

Explore: Phuket Villas for Sale

3. Buying Through a Thai Company (With Caution)

While some foreigners choose to set up a Thai limited company to purchase land:

  • This route must be done legally and transparently, with genuine Thai shareholders.

  • The company must operate as a real business, not just a vehicle to hold land.

  • Authorities are increasingly cracking down on nominee shareholder arrangements.

Learn more: Thai Nominee Shareholders & Real Estate

You can take a look at some of the  villas and houses for sale in Phuket here:

Villas For Sale in Phuket

If you were thinking of setting up a Thai Company to purchase a house or a villa, then you may want to read this: 

Owning Property, including Phuket Villas, through a Thai Company Limited.  Is it Legal? 

 

4. Owning a House (but Not the Land)

Thai law allows foreigners to own the structure (i.e., a house or villa), but not the land it sits on.

  • You can enter into a long-term lease for the land

  • The house itself can be registered in your name at the Land Office

What Are the Safest Options?

  • Foreign Freehold Condos in Phuket – best for full ownership with the least legal complexity

  • Registered Leasehold Villa – good for long-term lifestyle or investment use

  • Company Ownership – only advisable if the business is legitimate and you have strong legal advice

Due Diligence is Key

Foreign buyers should always:

  • Use a reputable lawyer to conduct due diligence

  • Ensure clear land title deeds (Chanote titles are best)

  • Understand all contracts and lease structures before signing

Thai Residential recommends that all buyers find a good lawyer to represent them.

You can also read this article about obtaining sound legal advice when buying real estate in Phuket:

The Importance of Sound Legal Advice When Buying Property in Phuket

If you are not familiar with the term “due diligence” and would like to know more about what is it and why it is important, then you might find the following article helpful:

Understanding the Importance of Due Diligence and Exactly What Due Diligence is When Buying Real Estate in Phuket

Be Wary of “Loopholes”

Some developers may offer “creative” ways to buy land, such as:

  • Illegal nominee structures

  • Questionable extensions to lease terms

🛑 These may seem appealing but can leave you legally exposed.

There is one option for foreigners to own land in Phuket, through a Prescribed Investment. You can read more about Investment Promotion and BOI here:

Foreign Freehold Land Ownership by Making a Prescribed Investment or Through the Board of Investment Scheme 

Why Phuket Is Ideal for Foreign Buyers

  • Established foreign ownership structures

  • Transparent developers with good reputations

  • Excellent choice of freehold condos and leasehold villas

  • International schools, hospitals, and infrastructure

  • Beautiful lifestyle with great rental potential

FAQ – Foreign Ownership in Phuket

Can a foreigner buy land in Phuket?
Not directly. You can lease land or set up a company (with legal advice), but you cannot hold land title in your personal name.

Can I own a condo outright in Phuket?
Yes, if it’s within the 49% foreign quota of a registered condominium.

Is leasehold property safe?
Yes, if properly structured and registered. Many high-end developments offer secure leasehold arrangements.

Are there any 99-year leases in Thailand?
Thai law only allows 30-year leases, with optional extensions written into contracts. Always check what’s registered at the Land Office.

Ready to Buy Property in Phuket?

If you’re ready to explore your options as a foreign buyer, we’ll help you navigate every legal and financial detail with confidence.

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