What Are Common Indirect Ways Foreigners Use Land in Phuket?

Foreigners generally cannot own land directly, but there are indirect routes some buyers consider. You can pursue long‑term leases that are registered with the Land Office and clearly spell out the land‑use rights, renewal options and rent. A usufruct or similar right can give you possession and use for a defined period, with registration and specific duties and duration. Some buyers explore holding shares in a Thai company that owns the land or a structure, though this approach has legal and tax complexities and foreign ownership limits in practice. Each route carries risk, transfer concerns and succession issues, so you should obtain independent Thai legal advice and a plain‑language ownership diagram from your lawyer describing who owns what, how long the rights last, and what happens on sale or death. Ensure the documents you receive match the Land Office records and building plans, and verify any lending or visa implications before moving money.