Department of Lands launches 69-province survey for 2027 land title deeds

The Thai Department of Lands is launching a nationwide survey across 69 provinces to issue official land title deeds for 2027. If your Thai spouse or family holds undocumented land, they now have a direct route to secure full ownership papers.

According to Thai-language reports from Thansettakij and Krungthep Turakij, the department is actively mapping land plots to upgrade them to full title deeds (often referred to as Chanote). To participate in the 2027 issuance, landowners must proactively register their need for a deed.

What this means for expat families

While foreign nationals cannot directly own land in Thailand, many expats live on land owned by their Thai spouses or extended family. Land in rural areas is frequently held under lesser possessory rights (like Sor Kor 1 or Por Bor Tor 5) rather than a full Chanote.

Upgrading to a full title deed provides better legal security, clearer boundaries, and higher property value. If your family holds land without a full deed, this survey is the mechanism to fix it.

Next steps for landowners

The process requires local coordination. According to Krungthep Turakij (in Thai), the immediate requirement is straightforward:

• Identify the land: Gather any existing paperwork or tax receipts for the plot.
• Contact local leadership: Anyone requiring a new title deed must notify their local village headman (Phuyaiban).
• Wait for the survey: The Department of Lands will coordinate with local leaders to survey the boundaries across the 69 participating provinces.

Because the target for issuing these deeds is 2027, the survey and administrative work will take place over the coming months. Have your Thai spouse reach out to their village headman soon to ensure their plot is included in the provincial survey schedule.