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What is the best visa option for owning a condo in Thailand without retiring?

Apr 22, 2025
2 days ago
Tony *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
I will be coming to Thailand in the new year, where I'll be taking ownership of a condo. It's the 49% foreign ownership thing. I won't be retiring then. What would be the best visa, does this count as an investment?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The best visa option for owning a condo in Thailand while not retiring is likely the DTV visa. It's important to note that owning a condominium under the 49% foreign ownership rule does not automatically qualify as an investment unless specifically approved by the BOI. Additionally, if you solely hold the title deed, you own 100% of the unit despite the land being subject to foreign ownership limitations. It is crucial to understand the implications of ownership and the necessary requirements for various visa types.
DTV VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
Willem ****
All condo building can only be owned for 49% by foreigners. Its the foreign quota. If there is a unit for sale within the foreign quota you can 100% legally own it.
Peter *******
No does not count as an investment
Andrew ********
DTV is your best bet and cheapest route. Investment doesn't qualify for the 500k baht requirement.

There are other stipulations for this such as soft power training as well

You can own 100% of a building just 49% of the land its on.. so you can buy a whole condo in a building too 100%
Arthit *********
If you are referring to the quota for foreign ownership in a condominium project, which is 49%, that is correct. However, if you purchase the unit and have only your name on the title deed, you are the sole owner, holding 100% ownership. If you include someone else’s name on the title deed, that person will have equal ownership rights as you do. Therefore, if you wish to sell or rent out the unit, both parties must sign the relevant documents.
Brandon ************
For it to count as an investment, it has to be approved by the BOI. Even then it's not really beneficial to you unless you're specifically trying to get a visa that has an investment requirement.
Tony *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Brandon ***********
just really want a long term visa, I think I heard about a10 year one?
Ian **********
@Tony ********
contact Brian Ramsden at Lawyer for Expat (Thailand) for LTR-Visa and property transaction advice.
Brandon ************
@Tony ********
then look up the LTR visa. It's a 10 year visa. I believe the wealthy global citizen variety has an investment requirement. But it's not actually 10 years as you have to requalify after 5 years.

But what's wrong with just getting the standard retirement and just getting an annual extension? That's what 99% of people do
Tony *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Brandon ***********
might be a possibility, I didn't think I was old enough, but it's over 50, so just cleared that.
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