INVESTMENT IN THAILAND
SIAM.PRO team provides the most popular investments activities for foreign investors. Our lawyer team operates tools which help to keep investments and assets safe and fully control by investor.
Contents:
1. INVESTING IN REAL ESTATE IN THAILAND
2. INVESTING IN A HOBBY THAT MAKES MONEY
3. BOI, EEC AND SPECIAL INVESTOR PROGRAMS.
1. INVESTING IN REAL ESTATE IN THAILAND
Investing in real estate in Thailand is one of the most popular and accessible ways for foreigners to invest their funds. Thailand offers diverse opportunities for investment in both residential and commercial properties, thanks to a stable market, relatively low prices, and the country’s popularity as a tourist destination. Below is more detailed information about various aspects of real estate investment in Thailand.
Types of Real Estate for Investment
1. Residential Property
Condominiums: The most popular choice among foreign investors. Foreigners can own up to 49% of the total area of all residential units in a condominium, making it a simple and legally protected option for foreigners.
Villas and Houses:
Foreigners can own buildings, such as villas or houses, but cannot own the land on which these buildings stand. Land ownership is only possible through long-term leases or a Thai company.
Apartments: Similar to condominiums, apartments are available for purchase and rent, although legal issues may be more complex in this sector.
2. Commercial Property
Offices:
Investing in office spaces can be profitable, especially in Bangkok and other major cities where demand for offices is consistently high.
Retail Spaces:
Purchasing retail spaces in popular tourist and commercial areas can generate good rental income.
Hotels and Resorts:
Investing in the hospitality business is particularly attractive for those looking to capitalize on the growing influx of tourists to Thailand.
Land:
Long-Term Lease: Foreigners cannot directly own land in Thailand but can enter into lease agreements for up to 30 years, with the possibility of extending for another 30 years.
Own through Thai company: One way to own land is through a Thai company, where the foreign investor owns no more than 49% of the shares, and the remaining 51% belong to Thai citizens or company. But our lawyer team have legal tools to protect your interests and assets. This tools well tested by decades of foreigner’s owning the property in Thailand.
Financing Property Purchase
Mortgage Lending:
Obtaining a mortgage for foreigners in Thailand is possible but limited. Some local and international banks offer mortgage loans, though terms and interest rates can vary significantly.
Cash Payments:
Many foreigners prefer to pay for real estate in cash, especially when purchasing condominiums and villas.
Cryptocurrency Payments:
If your funds are in cryptocurrency, we can offer options for transferring money to Thailand for real estate purchases.
Source of funds:
Please pay attention to the mandatory requirement to have the explanation of the source of funds. Our law and financial team can provide this service for your assets if it will be needed.
Conclusion
Investing in real estate in Thailand is a profitable and relatively safe way to invest capital, especially if you thoroughly check all legal and financial aspects. It’s important to work with experienced realtors and lawyers to avoid potential problems and make the most of the opportunities available in the Thai real estate market.
2. INVESTING IN A HOBBY THAT MAKES MONEY
Investing in a hobby that can generate income while allowing you to enjoy life in Thailand is an excellent idea for those who want to combine pleasure with financial gain. Thailand, with its rich nature, culture, and tourist potential, offers many opportunities to realize such ideas. Let’s look at a few options.
1. Boutique Hotel or Guesthouse
Description:
Investing in small boutique hotels or guesthouses is a popular choice for those who love hospitality and interacting with people. This could be a small, cozy hotel on the beach or in a mountainous area, where you can create a unique atmosphere and offer guests an unforgettable living experience.
How it makes money:
Income from room rentals, hosting events, and tours.
Additional income from organizing excursions, renting out transportation, and providing spa and restaurant services.
Why it’s enjoyable:
The opportunity to live in a picturesque place, meet travelers from all over the world, and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.
2. Restaurant or Café with a Unique Concept
Description:
Opening a restaurant or café with a unique concept, such as organic food, seafood, fusion cuisine, or a beachfront coffee shop, is ideal for culinary and hospitality enthusiasts.
How it makes money:
Regular income from serving local residents and tourists.
The possibility of hosting cooking classes, tastings, and events.
Why it’s enjoyable:
The chance to bring your culinary ideas to life, enjoy high-quality food and drinks, and create a space for socializing.
3. Yoga Center or Wellness Studio
Description:
Opening a yoga center, meditation studio, or wellness retreat. This business is particularly in demand in resort areas such as Koh Samui or Phuket.
How it makes money:
Income from yoga and meditation sessions, retreats, and healthy lifestyle seminars.
Sale of related products, such as eco-goods, sportswear, and accessories.
Why it’s enjoyable:
The ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle, share your knowledge and practices with others, and be in harmony with yourself and your surroundings.
4.Tourism Business or Diving School
Description:
Investing in a tourism business, such as opening an agency offering exotic tours or establishing a diving school in a coastal area.
How it makes money:
Income from organizing tours, renting diving equipment, and conducting courses.
Additional services such as boat rentals, underwater photography equipment, and selling tourist souvenirs.
Why it’s enjoyable:
The opportunity to explore Thailand’s nature, enjoy the sea and water sports, interact with tourists, and create unforgettable experiences.
5. Farm or Organic Garden
Description:
Creating an organic farm or garden to grow exotic fruits, vegetables, or spices. This is a great option for those interested in gardening and ecology.
How it makes money:
Income from selling fresh organic products at local markets, restaurants, or directly to consumers.
The possibility of organizing agro-tours, organic gardening workshops, and farmers’ markets.
Why it’s enjoyable:
Living in nature, working outdoors, and the satisfaction of creating an eco-friendly product.
6. Art and Crafts
Description:
If you are passionate about art or crafts, you can open a studio or shop where handmade items such as jewelry, ceramics, paintings, or textiles are sold.
How it makes money:
Selling artworks and crafts to locals and tourists.
Hosting workshops and art therapy sessions for those who want to learn to create something with their own hands.
Why it’s enjoyable:
The opportunity to engage in creativity, create unique items, and share your art with the world.
7. Cannabis shop
Description:
Opening a cannabis shop in Thailand allows you to sell legal cannabis products, including oils, extracts, cosmetics, edibles, and related merchandise. Such shops can become popular with both locals and tourists, especially in high-traffic areas.
How it makes money:
Selling cannabis products such as oils, extracts, cosmetics, edibles, and related merchandise.
Hosting themed events and workshops on the use of cannabis for medical and wellness purposes.
Collaborating with yoga centers, spas, and other wellness businesses to integrate cannabis into their services.
Why it’s enjoyable:
The opportunity to work in a growing industry that combines health, alternative medicine, and sustainable business.
The satisfaction of improving people’s quality of life and well-being.
Being part of an emerging and promising sector that contributes to people’s health.
Conclusion
Investing in a hobby that brings in money and allows you to enjoy life in Thailand offers a unique opportunity to combine work with pleasure. The specific direction you choose depends on your interests, skills, and preferences. It’s important to consider not only the potential profit but also how well the chosen hobby aligns with your lifestyle and makes you feel happy and fulfilled. SIAM.PRO, a team of professionals in real estate, finance, and law, will assist you in bringing your ideas and plans to life by providing support every step of the way.
3. BOI, EEC AND SPECIAL INVESTOR PROGRAMS.
Investing in Thailand through the Board of Investment (BOI), the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), and other special investor programs offers significant advantages and opportunities for foreign investors. These programs are designed to stimulate economic growth in key sectors and regions of the country. Let’s explore the most popular programs, minimum investment thresholds, key industries, incentives, and restrictions for foreign investors.
1. BOI (Board of Investment)
The BOI is Thailand’s primary agency for attracting investment into priority sectors by offering both tax and non-tax incentives.
Popular Programs and Incentives:
1. Technology and Innovation: Including IT, biotechnology, nanotechnology, and robotics medical services.
2. Renewable Energy: Projects in solar, wind, and hydropower.
3. Logistics and Transportation: Development of logistics centers and infrastructure.
Incentives:
– Corporate tax exemption for up to 8 years.
– Exemption from import duties on machinery and raw materials.
– 100% foreign ownership allowed in certain sectors.
– Simplified procedures for obtaining visas and work permits for foreign staff.
– Land ownership rights for BOI-approved companies.
Minimum Investment Threshold:
Typically starts from 1 million Thai baht (around 30,000 USD), but this can vary depending on the sector and the specific project.
Restrictions:
– Foreign ownership may be limited to 49% in some sectors.
– Minimum investment requirements may differ depending on the project.
– Companies must meet BOI criteria to qualify for incentives.
2. EEC (Eastern Economic Corridor)
The Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) is Thailand’s largest infrastructure and industrial development initiative, focusing on three eastern provinces: Chonburi, Rayong, and Chachoengsao.
Key Industries and Projects:
1. Digital Economy: Support for IT projects, innovation centers, and startups.
2. Aerospace Industry: Manufacturing and servicing of aviation equipment.
3. Biotechnology and Healthcare: Development of medical technologies and biopharmaceuticals.
4. Automotive Industry: Production of electric vehicles and components.
5. Tourism and Hospitality: Development of tourism infrastructure, resorts, and entertainment facilities.
Incentives:
– Additional tax exemptions for up to 5 years.
– Exemption from import duties on machinery and raw materials.
– Simplified licensing and permit procedures.
– Reduced corporate tax rates for companies investing in the EEC.
– Support in forming joint ventures with Thai companies.
Minimum Investment Threshold:
Investments in the EEC typically start from 10 million Thai baht (around 300,000 USD), depending on the project and industry.
Restrictions:
– Some projects require the involvement of Thai partners.
– Projects must align with those approved by the EEC.
– Restrictions on land and property ownership for foreign companies may apply.
3. Other Special Programs
SMART Visa Program:
The SMART Visa is designed for foreign specialists, investors, and entrepreneurs working in priority sectors such as technology, healthcare, and the digital economy.
Incentives:
– A visa valid for up to 4 years for specialists and investors.
– Exemption from the need to obtain a work permit.
– Easier access to visas for family members.
– Government and BOI support for fast-tracking applications.
Minimum Investment Threshold:
Investors must commit at least 20 million Thai baht (around 600,000 USD) to approved projects.
Free Trade Zones (FTZ):
Free Trade Zones offer additional benefits for companies operating within these zones, including exemptions from import and export duties.
Incentives:
– Exemption from VAT on goods imported into the zone.
– Reduced corporate tax rates.
– Simplified customs procedures.
Restrictions:
– The company’s activities must align with the zone’s regulations.
– Some zones require a minimum level of investment, depending on the type of business.
Conclusion
Investing in Thailand through BOI, EEC, and other special programs offers excellent opportunities for foreign investors. These programs provide significant tax and non-tax incentives, support high-tech projects, and encourage the development of priority sectors. However, it’s essential to be aware of the restrictions on foreign ownership and the need to meet specific program criteria.
If you’re interested in investing through these special investor programs, SIAM.PRO will provide support and ensure your interests are protected at every stage.
