🏠 Do Foreigners Need a Work Permit to Own Property in Thailand?

If you’re a foreigner looking to buy property in Thailand, you may wonder whether you also need a Thai work permit. Here’s a breakdown based on official regulations and credible sources.


âś… The Short Answer

No, you do not need a work permit to own property in Thailand. Owning real estate is completely independent of your employment status. Whether you’re on a tourist visa, retirement visa, or any other long-term visa, you can purchase:

  • Condominium units (up to 49% of the building’s total area)
  • Leasehold agreements for land or villas
  • Property via a Thai majority company

Visa or employment status does not control property ownership rights


🏢 What You Can Own Without a Work Permit

Property TypeOwnership OptionNotes
CondominiumFreehold under Condominium ActForeigners can own up to 49%
Land/VillaLong-term lease (up to 30 yrs, renewable)Structure can be owned
Land via CompanyThai ltd. co. with ≥ 51% Thai sharesLegal, but must be real—not nominee

🧾 Why Work Permits Don’t Apply to Property

  • Different legal systems: Work permits are for employment under the Labor Protection Act; property ownership falls under land and property laws, which have separate rules
  • No working required: Owning property is a passive investment, not work. Thus, a work permit isn’t needed to buy, lease, or sell property.

🛡️ But Don’t Mix Work and Ownership

While buying property doesn’t require a work permit, working in Thailand does. If you’re on a tourist or retirement visa, and you do business or offer property services, you’d need a valid work permit and permit letter—not just property ownership.


🚨 Related Legal Risks to Avoid

  • Nominee company loopholes: Using Thai nominees with no real business activity is illegal. Authorities are actively closing these loopholes.
  • Fake leases: The common 30+30+30-year lease is often unenforceable under Thai law .

📝 What You Do Need If You Plan to Work in Real Estate

If you aim to live and work in Thai real estate—e.g., as a consultant, developer, or agent—you must:

  1. Register a business (typically Thai majority-owned)
  2. Apply for a work permit through the Department of Employment
  3. Comply with relevant professional regulations, including licensing where applicable

👍 In Summary

  • No work permit is needed to invest in or own property like condos, leaseholds, villas, or Thai-company-held land.
  • Work permits are only required if you engage in active employment (e.g., property management, sales).
  • Make sure your ownership setup is fully legal—avoid nominee structures and abide by regulations.

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Want Peace of Mind Investing in Thailand?

At Central City Property, we help foreign buyers navigate legal options and connect with top-tier legal experts—whether you’re buying a condo, villa, or leasehold property. We don’t offer legal advice, but we do provide trusted referrals to ensure your investment is both safe and fully compliant.

đź“© Email: contact@centralcityproperty.com
📱 WhatsApp: +66 95 992 0345

Ready for a seamless property purchase in Thailand? Reach out today!

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