FAQs About Land Title Deeds and Property Rights in Thailand.
- What is a land title deed in Thailand?
A land title deed, issued by the relevant Thai government department, shows a person’s rights to land, such as ownership if it is a Chanote title deed, and any registered encumbrances like mortgages or leases.
- Can foreigners own land in Thailand?
No, foreigners are not allowed to own land in Thailand. However, they can hold certain rights like leases, usufructs, or mortgages, which can be registered in their name on the land title deed.
- What are the main types of land title deeds issued by the Land Department in Thailand?
The main types of land title deeds include Chanote (Nor. Sor. 4 Jor), Nor Sor Saam Gor (N.S. 3 G.), and Nor Sor Saam Khor (N.S. 3 K.), each offering different levels of ownership or possession rights.
- What is a Chanote and why is it considered the true ownership title deed?
A Chanote (Nor. Sor. 4 Jor) is a certificate of true ownership for land in Thailand. It is accurately surveyed, marked by unique numbered marker posts, and offers unrestricted ownership rights.
- What are other common types of land title deeds in Thailand?
Other common title deeds include Nor Sor Saam (N.S. 3), Nor Sor Saam Gor (N.S. 3 G.), Nor Sor Saam Khor (N.S. 3 K.), and Sor Kor Nung (1), each with varying rights and limitations.
- Can all types of land title deeds be upgraded to Chanote?
No, not all types of land title deeds can be upgraded to Chanote. The possibility of upgrade depends on factors such as the land’s location, type of title deed, and government regulations.
- What are the restrictions on certain types of land title deeds?
For example, Sor Kor Nung (1) land has limited rights and is mainly used for farming. It may be upgraded to a more secure title deed, but this is no longer possible with the Land Department.
- Are there any risks associated with certain types of land title deeds?
Yes, for instance, Nor Sor Saam (3) titles may lead to boundary disputes due to the lack of accurate surveyed boundaries, potentially affecting land transactions and ownership rights.
- What are the land documents issued by other government departments?
These include Sor. Por. Gor. 4-01 (S.P.G. 4-01), Sor. Tor. Gor. (S.T.G.), Por. Bor. Tor. 5 (P.B.T. 5), Nor. Kor. 3 (N.K. 3), and Gor. Sor. Nor. 5 (G.S.N. 5), each serving different purposes and subject to specific regulations.
- Can untitled land be upgraded to full title deed?
In certain circumstances, untitled land like Tor.Bor.Ha (T.B.5) may be upgraded to full title deeds, but approval is often difficult to obtain and may be subject to scams or irregularities.