Guides
Buying property through a Thai company
A company registered in Thailand can own land if it counts as a Thai company under the Land Code. A company is treated as foreign for land ownership if foreigners hold more than 49% of its registered capital, or if more than half of its shareholders are foreigners.
Setting up a company only to hold a home is risky. The company must be a genuine operating business. Using Thai nominee shareholders to hold land for a foreigner is illegal under the Foreign Business Act and the Land Code, and can lead to the land being forcibly sold.
Nominee shareholders are illegal
Under the Foreign Business Act it is a criminal offence for a Thai person to hold shares on behalf of a foreigner, and for the foreigner who arranges it. Under the Land Code, holding land on behalf of a foreigner is also an offence, and the Department of Lands can order the land to be sold.
Our approach
We do not arrange company structures or nominee shareholdings. If you are thinking about buying through a company, take independent legal advice first.
Frequently asked questions
Can a Thai company owned by a foreigner buy land?
Not if foreigners hold more than 49% of its registered capital or make up more than half of its shareholders. Such a company is treated as foreign under the Land Code.
Can I use Thai nominee shareholders?
No. The company must be a genuine operating business. Using Thai nominee shareholders to hold land for a foreigner is illegal under the Foreign Business Act and the Land Code, and can lead to the land being forcibly sold.
Do you set up companies for buyers?
No. We do not arrange company structures or nominee shareholdings. Take independent legal advice if you are considering a company.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Take independent legal advice before you buy.