Can Irish foreigners buy property in Chiang Mai?

Just back from a dream trip to Thailand? Chiang Mai is a popular destination for nature lovers, people who want to explore Thailand’s rich cultural history, and anyone who loves to eat well on a budget.

If you’ve fallen in love with the land of smiles you might be considering buying property in Chiang Mai as a holiday home, investment, or with plans to live there in future.

So, can foreigners buy property in Chiang Mai? This guide explores when, and how, Irish citizens may be able to buy a home in Chiang Mai, and also touches on Wise large transfers as a great way to move your money from euros to Thai baht.

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Can Irish citizens buy property in Chiang Mai?

Irish citizens can buy property in Chiang Mai, but there are some restrictions on the types of property you can own, and the circumstances in which you may be able to buy.

Foreigners are not usually allowed to buy land in Thailand. This means that in practice it’s very difficult to buy a house in Chiang Mai but you may still be able to buy a flat in a condo development¹.

Generally foreigners can buy flats, but there are restrictions on the level of foreign ownership on any given building. This may mean that if too many foreigners already own apartments in the block you’re looking at, you’re not able to buy there.

Other options include buying a property through a registered business in Thailand, although this is a little more complex. There is also a theoretical way to own land in Thailand if you make a large investment - but this is more of a solution for businesses looking to move into the Thai market than for individual buyers.

As this process can be a little complicated to follow, most foreign buyers of property in Chiang Mai have the help of an agent who is familiar with the process and how to remain legally compliant throughout.

What are the essential requirements?

To buy a property in Thailand you’ll need to put together some documents for when you negotiate and for the completion of the sale. The basics usually required include:

• Proof of identity for all purchasers, such as a passport or driving license
• Proof of bringing foreign money into Thailand, such as statements showing international transfers from your Irish bank
• Power of attorney - needed only if you won’t be physically present in Thailand during the purchase process.

As part of the purchase process you’ll need to get property registration, permits and deeds, and you may also be required to provide a cheque covering the purchase price as a guarantee, if you’re not using a mortgage or loan for the purchase.

How much does it cost to buy a house in Chiang Mai?

The costs of buying a home in Chiang Mai vary depending on the type of property, its size, age and style, as well as its exact location.

The easiest way to compare costs on average is to look at the square meter cost which gives an even playing field to consider, before you dive into more detailed research with your agent.

The good news, though, is that costs of buying a property in Chiang Mai can be cheaper than many places in Thailand, and far cheaper on average compared to Bangkok. There’s a good selection of housing types available in Chiang Mai, which can also be helpful when looking for something to fit your specific preferences and budget.

Here’s how much it costs to buy an apartment in Chiang Mai on average, per square meter, with additional data from Thailand overall, and Bangkok, as a comparison.

*Details taken from Numbeo on 6th November 2025 - data is live and changes regularly.

Buying a property in Chiang Mai: Fees and taxes

The overall cost of buying a property in Chiang Mai is not only the agreed sale price. In addition you may need to pay legal fees and taxes. You’ll need to talk to your agent to understand the full scope of costs in your specific case. Usually this can include:

• Transfer fee - 2% of the property value
• Legal fees - variable depending on services needed
• Agent fees - variable depending on individual situation

Other costs apply which may be covered by the seller. These include stamp duty, withholding tax and business tax. Don’t forget you’ll also need to set aside money for repairs and maintenance, and for your mortgage repayments if you choose to fund your property in Chiang Mai with a loan.

How to find properties for sale in Chiang Mai

You can start your search for properties for sale in Chiang Mai online, using real estate websites which aggregate lots of listings from different agents. These sites have handy tools to sort and filter properties to help you get a feel for what’s available and what your budget may need to be:

• Thailand Property
• FazWaz
• DD Property
• Perfect Homes

It’s helpful to move on to engage an agent to help you in your search once you’ve decided on where you’re targeting in particular and the type of property. An agent will have inside knowledge of the area, and can help with the practical experience of buying a property in Chiang Mai, providing translation and also a guide through the process you’ll need to follow.

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Step by step for buying property in Chiang Mai as an Irish citizen

Let’s close out with a quick introduction to the step by step process for buying property in Chiang Mai as an Irish citizen:

Step 1: Find your perfect property through online and in person searches with an agent

Search using online tools to get an idea of the property you like and then engage an agent to help guide your search further. Don’t forget there are restrictions on the properties you can buy in Chiang Mai as a foreigner.

Step 2: Find a local property lawyer who can help you with your purchase

You will need local legal support to make sure you don’t fall foul of any scams or other pitfalls during your property purchase. Find a lawyer who is used to dealing with expats to get the best experience.

Step 3: Agree on a price and complete due diligence checks

You can negotiate the price through your property agent before your legal support carries out due diligence checks, looking at title deeds, searches and other important factors. This is to ensure the sale can be legally completed.

Step 4: Sign the purchase agreement and pay your deposit

Your lawyer will draw up a purchase agreement, and upon signing, a deposit of 10% is usually required. Any further required surveys or checks can now be carried out before the sale completes.

Step 5: Finalise the sale and pay the remaining amount

Once you, your agent and your legal representative are happy with everything, the purchase is registered in Thailand and the balance and any taxes will need to be paid.

Sources used:

Sources last checked on date: 10th November, 2025