Are you planning on travelling through Thailand on a tourist visa, but you aren’t quite sure where you stand from a legal perspective in terms of renting property? If so, don’t panic, we’ll tell you everything you need to know in this article so that you can ensure everything you do is above board.
As wonderful as Thailand is, the Kingdom is not without its drawbacks. For one thing, the real estate market can be very overwhelming and complicated for foreigners. The good news is that, with the proper representation and assistance, it can be painless to navigate.
So, is it legal to rent a condo in Thailand, even if you are on a tourist visa?
It is legal to rent a condo in Thailand as a tourist?
The short answer is yes; renting a condo in Thailand on a tourist visa is legal – and incredibly easy. It doesn’t matter what type of visa you are on, renting a property for any length of time is entirely possible – which is good news for freelancers looking to spend some time in the Kingdom of Thailand.
Of course, committing to a 12-month contract when you are only legally allowed to stay in the country for 90-days is unethical – particularly if you negotiate a longer contract in favour of a lower monthly cost. However, there are short-term rental agreements available.
Are there any limitations in terms of property type to rent?
Again, just as you are free to rent a property on a tourist visa, you aren’t restricted by property type either.
So for example, if you want to rent a beachfront villa in Koh Samui for three months, then you are well within your rights to do so. Just as you can search DD Properties for condos in Bangkok.
Just make sure that you are open and honest about your intended length of stay when you are in discussions with your real estate agency / prospective landlord.
Are there any other legal requirements when renting a property in Thailand?
The only thing that you really need to worry about when renting property in Thailand on a tourist visa is having a valid passport. Not only that, but you should have enough money behind you to pay your rent, enjoy your travels, and return home when your tourist visa is up.
In most cases, you may be required to pay a 2-months refundable security deposit, including 1-month rent in advance. Your deposit will be returned to you provided you leave the property in the same condition as you found it.
It’s always worth going through a real estate agency if you are worried that you may not get your security deposit back.
In any case, that’s pretty much all you need to know about renting on a tourist visa. It is otherwise painless and straightforward.