The Thai Longstay Program was created to make it easier for foreigners to buy their dream home in Thailand.

This new program from the Thai Longstay Management Company offers foreign buyers in Thailand a secure structure for acquiring real estate.

As many foreigners already know, buying property abroad can be a confusing and frustrating experience, especially since the purchasing system works differently than in their home country. Foreigners cannot own land in Thailand, so a secure ownership model is essential to allow them to build and live in their dream home.

Let's take a closer look at the Thailand long-term program and see what it has to offer.

Exchange program

Foreigners who established Thai limited liability companies under the old 49/51 percent rule can now convert them into a secure and legal structure as VIP members.

  • If the property was undervalued in the land registry, VIP can raise the value to the current market price.
  • Opportunity to become a TLM member for 30 years.
  • After the first 30 years, 3.5 percent interest is paid annually on the value of the property.
  • Unlimited number of multiple-entry visas for the member and their partner (valid for 1 year).

    • Benefits for investors through VIP programs

  • Investors become members of TLM for 30 years.
  • Investors gain access to TLM's expedited immigration services and one-stop service, which entitle the holder to a one-year visa and assistance at Thai international airports such as Suvarnabhumi, Samui and Phuket.
  • Investors can request special attention and assistance from the tourist police.
  • Investors have access to TML's multilingual call center, which is available in English, Japanese, and Korean.
  • Discounts and special offers are available at TLM partners, including hotels, golf courses, spas, restaurants, shops, hospitals, and insurance companies. Depending on the terms and conditions, partners offer discounts between 5 and 50 percent.
  • TLM offers support in applying for work permits.
  • Investors have the right to receive the income and profits from subletting or reselling the investment properties.
  • After the first 30 years, investors receive 3.5 percent interest per year on the value of the property.
  • TLP will offer mortgages to its VIP members.
  • TLP will offer its members certain loans secured by their property.

    • Frequently Asked Questions

    Why should I use the VIP service when I can legally rent real estate in Thailand?

    You can sign a lease agreement with a term of 30 years. However, it's uncertain whether the landowner will renew the contract. There's no guarantee of this. What happens if the lessor dies? Is the heir obligated to fulfill the deceased's contractual obligations? With the VIP structure, on the other hand, you can renew the lease agreement with complete confidence.

    Isn't this just another "nominee" structure like the firm 49/51?

    No, this structure represents a genuine and legitimate investment for all parties involved. Under the old "straw man" structure, Thai individuals were used to fulfill the 51% stake and management requirements. These "straw men" received no compensation for their participation and were not actively involved in the business.

    I already own a Thai company. What should I do?

    If you currently have a Thai company established with trustees, you can switch to the VIP structure. The Thai government is currently revising the Foreign Companies Act regarding their business activities. However, the existing law is even more restrictive and imposes severe penalties on both Thais and foreigners who violate it.

    Do current events affect the VIPs?

    No. The current political problems can only strengthen buyer confidence in VIP, since it was initiated by government authorities. The goal was to create confidence in real estate investments in Thailand through legal means.

    I am 45 years old. I am neither married to a Thai woman nor do I have a job or my own business. How can I buy a house in Thailand and live there?

    Under the new entry regulations, you may only stay in Thailand if you hold a valid visa issued by a Thai embassy or consulate, provided you are under 50 years old, not married to a Thai citizen, and not employed by a Thai company. However, as a VIP member, you are automatically entitled to membership with TLM, which will issue you and your partner a one-year visa.

    Can I sell a property as a VIP member?

    Yes, you would lease the property from VIP, but your name would be on the back of the title deed. You can lease the property for 30 years, without guarantee. If you decide to sell your property, the new buyer will receive a new 30-year lease, without guarantee, and their name will be on the back of the title deed.

    What happens if I die?

    In the unlikely event of the buyer's death, ownership can be transferred to a relative. A new 30-year lease agreement will be drawn up and registered. This way, the property essentially remains in your family forever.