Last updated on April 12, 2026
Table of Contents
1. Clarification on Recent Policy
In response to recent confusion, the Thai government has provided further details regarding its 2022 policy concerning foreigners buying land in Thailand. The primary objective of this policy is to entice affluent foreign investors to the country. It stipulates that only individuals holding Long-Term Resident (LTR) visas are permitted to acquire land.
Previously, there was a misconception following an announcement that foreigners could purchase homes and up to a rai (approximately 0.6 acres) of land with a 40 million baht investment. Some individuals interpreted this as Thailand “selling off” its land. You should know that normally, it is not allowed for foreigners to buy land in Thailand but there are exceptions.
Government spokesperson Anucha Burapachaisri clarified that this policy is not a novel concept; it was initially introduced post the 1997 financial crisis. The revival of this policy aims to attract investments amidst the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. However, the current iteration restricts land ownership to individuals holding LTR visas. It’s interesting to see that the LTR visa and also the Sap Ing Sith are laws opening foreigners buying land in Thailand.
The government wants to ease concerns and provide clarity for both local and foreign stakeholders. They plan to do this by explaining the history and reasons behind their policy. This will help attract more foreign investments. It will also demonstrate the government’s commitment to supporting economic growth and stability during uncertain times.
The government wants to ease concerns and provide clarity for both local and foreign stakeholders. They plan to do this by explaining the history and reasons behind their policy decisions. This will help attract more foreign investments. It will also demonstrate the government’s commitment to supporting economic growth and stability during uncertain times.
2. Key Points for a foreigner buying land in Thailand:
- Only LTR visa holders can buy land under this policy. The minimum investment of 40 million baht for at least 3 years is required. The policy applies for five years upon publication in the Royal Gazette. Land purchases are limited to Bangkok, Pattaya, other municipal areas, and designated residential zones. Foreigners can only buy one rai of land total, even if they sell portions later. Non-compliance can lead to revoked land rights by the Department of Land.
- This used to be in a decree in Thailand and relaunched in 2022 during covid. Do note that there are many conditions and I personally never seen it applied since I work under Thai law in 2006. Do note that other exceptions do exists, for example under the BOI (Board of Investment in Thailand or the Petroleum Act. Remember also the Sap Ing Sith which is ownership of land for foreigners but limited to 30 years with options of renewals. It is possible for foreigners buying land in Thailand but it is an exception.
Links:
- The Nation
- Another exception is foreigners acquiring land by inheritance. Unfortunately, it is rarely approved.