What Are the Documents Required for Transfer of Ownership of a Phuket Property?

Transferring Ownership? Here are the Documents Needed to Transfer a Phuket Property

When buying Phuket property, on the date of the transfer of ownership at the Phuket Land Department, there are certain documents that must be presented to the government official. This article explains what documents are needed to transfer a Phuket property.    

The normal procedures when purchasing Phuket Property are quite easy to follow, even for a first time buyer. Normally, once the buyer and the seller have agreed on a sales price, a Reservation Agreement is drafted, usually by the seller’s lawyer.

As soon as the deposit has been paid by the buyer and receipted by the seller (or the sellers lawyer or a developer), the lawyers will both work together to draft and agree on all the terms of the sale and purchase with a “Sales and Purchase Agreement” (also called an SPA), with both sides trying to get the best terms they can from the corresponding party.

Transferring ownership of a property in Phuket is a major milestone in the buying process — and a legal procedure that must be handled with care. Whether you are purchasing a Phuket villa, or a Phuket condominium, or even a a plot of land in Phuket, the transfer process at the local Land Office involves paperwork, fees, and strict regulatory compliance.

Here’s a complete breakdown of the documentation required for a smooth ownership transfer — along with important tips, differences for foreign buyers, and what to expect on the day.

Required Documents for the Transfer of Ownership (Seller & Buyer)

For the Seller:

• Original Title Deed (Chanote) – This must be presented in original form and shows the legal owner.

• House Registration Book (Tabien Baan) – For standalone properties (not required for condos).

• ID Card or Passport – If Thai, a valid Thai ID card; if foreigner, a valid passport.

• Marriage Certificate – If the seller is married (Thai or foreign), this may be needed for joint signatures.

• Spouse Consent Form – If the property is in one spouse’s name but purchased during marriage, consent is often required.

• Power of Attorney (if not present in person) – If the seller cannot attend, a POA must be prepared on a Land Office form and signed in front of a notary or Thai embassy abroad.

For the Buyer:

• ID Card or Passport

• Marriage Certificate (if applicable)

• Foreign Exchange Transaction Form (FETF) – If a foreigner is buying a condominium in freehold, funds must be remitted from overseas in foreign currency and converted in Thailand. The receiving bank will issue this form for transfers exceeding USD $50,000.

• Power of Attorney (if applicable) – Same as for the seller.

Additional Documents for Foreign Condominium Purchases

Foreigners purchasing freehold condominiums in Thailand must submit:

• Proof of Foreign Currency Transfer (FETF)

• Declaration of Unit Quota – To prove that foreign ownership in the building does not exceed 49%

• Sale and Purchase Agreement – Often required by the Land Office to verify agreed terms

• Developer’s Documents – For new builds, the developer typically assists with all paperwork and compliance

Additional Notes for Villas and Land Purchases

If you are purchasing a villa or land, especially as a foreigner:

• Lease Agreement – If ownership is via leasehold, the lease agreement must be registered with the Land Office (often a 30-year lease, renewable).

• Company Documents – If purchasing through a Thai company, you will need:

  • Company Affidavit

  • Shareholder List (updated)

  • Memorandum of Association

  • Company Registration Certificate

  • Minutes of Meeting authorising purchase

  • Tax ID card of the company

• Land Due Diligence – Ensure the land has the correct zoning, no encumbrances, and that building permits are valid if buying with structures.

What Happens on the Day of Transfer?

Transfers take place at the Phuket Land Office, usually in Phuket Town. Both buyer and seller (or their appointed representatives) must attend with all original documents.

Here’s what typically happens:

1. Verification of Documents by Land Office staff

2. Calculation and Payment of Transfer Fees (usually split between buyer and seller, unless stated otherwise)

3. Signing of Transfer Documents

4. New Ownership Registered – The Land Office issues a new title deed in the buyer’s name (or registers the lease)

Government Fees & Taxes (Rough Guide)

Note: These fees are calculated on either the sale price or appraised value — whichever is higher.

Tips for a Smooth Ownership Transfer

• Use a Reputable Lawyer – Local expertise is essential to avoid common pitfalls.

• Prepare Funds in Advance – Fees must usually be paid in cash or bank cheque at the Land Office.

• Double Check All Names – Names on ID/passport and title deed must match exactly.

• Confirm Freehold vs Leasehold Early – The required documents differ significantly.

• Clarify Responsibilities in the Sales Agreement – Especially who pays which fees.

Get Expert Help

At Thai Residential, we assist our clients every step of the way — from document preparation to final registration at the Land Office. If you’re unsure about any part of the transfer process, or want a trusted team by your side, we’re here to help.

For a complete overview of the property buying process in Thailand, see our Phuket Property Guide.

As always, it is essential that buyers seek legal advice from a reputable lawyer when entering into a real estate transaction in Phuket.

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