If you’re a foreigner looking to invest in Cambodia’s booming real estate market, you might be wondering: Can I legally buy property here? The answer is yes, but there are some important rules and methods you need to know.
As someone who has helped international investors secure their dream properties in Cambodia, I want to share the most common—and safest—ways foreigners can own real estate here. While there are a few options available, trustee services stand out as the most secure method for long-term investment.
How Can Foreigners Buy Property in Cambodia?
Cambodian law restricts outright land ownership by foreigners, but there are legal ways to invest in property:
1. Buying Under a Cambodian Nominee (Risky & Outdated)
Some foreigners used to put properties under a Cambodian citizen’s name (a “nominee”). However, this method is highly risky—if the nominee claims ownership, you have little legal protection. The government has also cracked down on this practice, making it unreliable.
2. Forming a Cambodian Company (Common but Complex)
Many investors set up a local company (with 51% Cambodian ownership) to buy land. While legal, this method involves annual accounting fees, tax filings, and compliance costs, making it less ideal for individual buyers.
3. Buying a Strata-Titled Condominium (Easiest but Limited)
Foreigners can fully own condominium units (above the ground floor) in buildings with a strata title. This is the simplest way, but you’re limited to condos—not land or villas.
4. Using a Trustee Service (The Most Secure Option)
For those who want full legal protection while investing in land, villas, or commercial properties, a trustee service is the best choice.
Why a Trustee Service is the Safest Way for Foreigners to Buy Property
A trustee service involves a licensed Cambodian firm holding the property in trust for you. Unlike a risky nominee arrangement, this is a legally binding agreement where:
✔ You retain full control—the trustee cannot sell or transfer the property without your consent.
✔ Your name is registered in the Trust Regulator
✔ No company setup is needed, saving you annual fees and paperwork.
✔ You can sell, lease, or transfer the property anytime.
I always recommend this method to my clients because it offers security, transparency, and peace of mind—something you won’t get with risky nominee deals or complicated company structures.
Final Thoughts: Invest with Confidence
While Cambodia offers great opportunities for real estate investors, choosing the right ownership method is crucial. If you want to buy land or a villa safely, a trustee service is the most reliable solution.
