THAILAND MORTGAGE FOR FOREIGNER

This type of mortgage provides foreigners with the ability to spread the cost of real estate investment in Thailand over time, rather than paying the full amount upfront.

For many international investors, mortgages in Thailand are seen as an accessible way to participate in the country’s growing property market, from residential condominiums to vacation homes.

The availability of mortgages tailored to foreigners reflects Thailand’s openness to global real estate participation and the increasing demand from overseas buyers seeking financial support for their property acquisitions.

Can a foreigner obtain a mortgage in Thailand ?

Yes — a foreigner can obtain a mortgage in Thailand, though the options are more limited compared to what’s available to Thai citizens. Several specialized lenders and international banks still offer property financing, particularly for condominiums, which foreigners are legally permitted to purchase.

Who Lends and How It Works

• Thai Banks: Mortgages from local banks to foreigners are rare, but some institutions like UOB (Thailand) and ICBC do offer loans for freehold condominiums.
• International Bank Schemes: Banks such as Bangkok Bank (via its Singapore branch) and UOB Singapore have offered financing programs allowing foreigners to borrow up to a percentage of property value in foreign currencies.
• Alternative Options: Companies like MBK Guarantee provide loans against collateral for existing Thai property, enabling foreigners to leverage the equity they already own.

What Makes It Possible

Certain property types and locations are more conducive to foreign mortgages:

• Condominiums are the most common option, as Thai law generally restricts foreigners from owning land but allows condominium ownership.
• International lenders bypass some domestic restrictions by operating internationally or through partnerships, enabling access to financing where local banks won’t tread.

Can a foreigner own a property in Thailand ?

Yes — a foreigner can own property (but not the land) in Thailand, but with important restrictions on the type of property.

• Condominiums: Foreigners are allowed to buy and own condominium units outright, as long as no more than 49% of the total floor area of the building is foreign-owned. This is the most common and straightforward way for foreigners to own property in Thailand.
• Land: Foreigners are not allowed to own land directly under Thai law. However, they can lease land long-term (up to 30 years, renewable) or set up other legal arrangements, such as forming a Thai company or entering into joint ownership with a Thai national.
• Buildings (Houses or Villas): While foreigners cannot own the land, they may own the building itself (such as a villa or house) if it sits on leased land, provided the correct legal structure is used.
• Investment routes: In rare cases, foreigners can own land through specific Board of Investment (BOI) schemes or significant investment programs, but these are exceptions rather than the rule.