Yes. Under the Condominium Act, foreigners can hold freehold title to a condo unit, provided foreign ownership across the building as a whole does not exceed 49% of total sellable floor area. That means you can own your Pattaya or Jomtien condo in your own name, with no company and no lease.
The 49% foreign quota
The limit applies to the whole building, not to individual units. A popular development in a sought-after area may already have used up its foreign quota, so always check availability first. Ask the building’s juristic office for written confirmation of the remaining quota before you sign anything. If a unit is bought after the quota is full, it cannot be legally registered in a foreigner’s name.
Where the money must come from
Purchase funds must be transferred into Thailand from abroad, in foreign currency, through your Thai bank account. The receiving bank then issues a Foreign Exchange Transaction (FET) form. The bank issues it for transfers above USD 50,000, and the Land Department asks for it at the transfer. Money borrowed in Thailand or sent in baht does not count as foreign currency remitted from abroad. Keep every FET form, because you need one per transfer.
Costs when you buy
The main cost is the transfer fee, typically around 2% of the appraised value, split between buyer and seller by negotiation. Agree who pays what in the contract. Also budget for legal fees and any other taxes your lawyer identifies for your situation.
The buying process
- Choose a unit and confirm the foreign quota is available.
- Review the sale contract with a lawyer.
- Pay the deposit and sign the agreement.
- Transfer the balance from abroad in foreign currency and collect your FET form.
- Attend the Land Department with the seller, pay the fees and receive the title deed in your name.
Why use a lawyer
A lawyer checks the title, the quota, the contract and the transfer-day paperwork. Fees are small compared with the cost of a mistake.
Looking for a condo in Pattaya or Jomtien?
AC Property Pattaya lists condos, villas and commercial properties across Pattaya, Jomtien and Pratumnak. Browse listings at acpropertypattaya.com or message us to arrange a viewing.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Rules can change, so confirm details with a qualified Thai lawyer.
