Ruben, the rule was there to insure investors would buy from developers and support the industry as opposed to buying from another individual or investor, therefore benefiting just that person. Since I am no longer on the investment visa, I cannot state categorically that is still the rule, but it would make sense for it to remain as such. I suggest you speak with immigration directly for more up-to-date facts.

@Ruben *******

These were the terms when I had the investment visa, which was long ago before the Elite visa was introduced. I was given the rules from Immigration Dept. as an alternative to my Non-B back 15+ years ago.

With the investment visa, you must deposit the funds into a fixed deposit account which earns very little interest. You then invest in a Condo property, but it must be new (off plan) and not second hand market. Upon completion of condo, you transfer the visa from the fixed deposit account, to the condo ownership. With that condo you may collect rental income or live there yourself. IF you decide to sell the condo, your visa must revert back to the fixed deposit.

You do get many perks and privileges with the Elite visa as well, but NO, you do not get your money back, BUT with certain categories you are allowed to transfer / sell the visa to another party....for a profit!

Investment visas are around 10 million Baht, you might be better off considering Thailand Elite which offers more privileges for your money.

Start calling!

Then I suggest you use google.