Cambodian law says foreigners aren’t allowed to own land outright. Don’t worry, that doesn’t mean you can’t invest in property here, you just need to get a little creative. Here’s the full rundown:
𝟭: 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗼 𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝘆!
The easiest and safest route is buying a condo. You can get full ownership as long as it’s not on the ground floor, and there’s a limit on foreign control of the building. This is perfect if you’re looking for a place to live, a vacation rental, or a straightforward investment.
𝟮: 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗳 𝗮 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗼𝗱𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿
This one is trickier. You set up a company where you have 49% ownership and a Cambodian citizen (or entity) has the majority 51%. This company buys the land or property. It’s more complex and there’s an element of trust needed, so choose your partner wisely!
𝟯: 𝗟𝗼𝗻𝗴-𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗺 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗱
Leaseholds are the middle ground. This isn’t ownership, but you gain control of a property for up to 50 years, and the lease can be renewed. It’s a good option if the condo route doesn’t suit your needs.
𝟰: 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗡𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 (High Risk)
You’ll hear about the ‘nominee structure’. You sign an agreement with a Cambodian local to buy the property on your behalf. However, it’s risky and you need to think carefully.
𝟱: 𝗨𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲
This option keeps you in the background. You’ll work with a reputable trust company who will hold the property title on your behalf. They handle the legal paperwork and management, while you retain the benefits and decision-making power.
𝟲: 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝘆 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗮𝗺𝗯𝗼𝗱𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽
It’s a longer path, but it’s worth considering if you’re deeply invested in Cambodia. By becoming a citizen, you then have the same rights as any Cambodian local, including the right to purchase land directly.
So, what’s the verdict?
* Condo ownership has the least hassle, especially for smaller investments.
* Company setup and trusts can be good for bigger projects if that’s your game.
* Leases provide security if you need long-term.
* Citizenship is your most open-ended option but needs a strong commitment
Always get a lawyer or professional agents to help you as your advisor.
No matter what you choose, get a rock-solid Cambodian lawyer or professional agent on your side. They’ll navigate the paperwork, help you understand the rules, and make sure everything is above board.
Let me know if you have any questions about a specific method or want more details!
