By Phuket News Property · July 28, 2021
Updated: November 27, 2025

A Tabien Baan, often called a house registration book, is an official document issued by a district office in Thailand. Although it is sometimes misunderstood as a proof of property ownership, its purpose is far more limited. The Tabien Baan simply records the individuals who are legally registered as residents at a particular address. It is an important administrative document, but it does not grant ownership rights over the property.

What is a Tabien Baan?

A Tabien Baan is a government-issued house registration book maintained by the local district office. It lists the people who are officially registered as living at a specific property. There are two types:

  • Blue Book (Thor Ror 14) for Thai citizens and permanent residents

  • Yellow Book (Thor Ror 13) for foreign nationals who meet the requirements for residence registration

Both books perform the same function, although the Yellow Book is specifically for foreigners.

What the Tabien Baan does and does not prove

The Tabien Baan confirms that an individual is registered as living at an address. It is commonly used when applying for utilities, licences, bank accounts or other services that require official address verification.

What it does not prove is property ownership. A person may be listed in the Tabien Baan without owning the property, and a property owner may choose not to register their residence there. Ownership is determined solely by the title deed issued by the Land Department, not by the house registration book.

When foreigners might have a Tabien Baan

Foreign residents who hold long-term visas or meet local district requirements may apply for the Yellow Book. It can be useful for administrative tasks, as it provides an officially recognised Thai address.

A foreigner who owns a condominium may apply for the Yellow Book if they plan to register their residence at the unit. However, the book does not affect ownership rights in any way. For overseas buyers who do not live in Thailand, obtaining a Yellow Book is generally unnecessary.

Why lawyers sometimes request the Tabien Baan during a resale

The Tabien Baan is not legally required for the transfer of ownership of a condominium or house. The Land Department does not require it as part of the official transfer documentation. Ownership transfer is based on the title deed, relevant contracts, foreign quota certification, FET forms and tax documents.

However, many lawyers still request the Tabien Baan because it is a useful supporting document that can simplify certain administrative steps. It helps confirm the registered address of the seller, assists with preparing tax paperwork and may be used when updating juristic office records. While helpful, it remains optional. A resale can still proceed without the Tabien Baan, especially when the seller is a foreign owner who does not have one.

Common misunderstandings about the Tabien Baan

A frequent misconception is that being listed in the Tabien Baan grants property rights. It does not. Registration simply confirms residency. Another misunderstanding is that the house book is essential for property transactions. In reality, it is optional and is only used as supporting documentation in some circumstances.

Requirements for issuing a Blue or Yellow Book can also vary by district office. Some Amphoe offices ask for additional documents, while others process applications more straightforwardly. Buyers and residents should always check with the relevant local office for exact requirements.

Practical advice for property buyers and residents

Buyers should rely on the title deed to confirm ownership and not consider the Tabien Baan as part of ownership verification. Foreign residents living long-term in Thailand may find the Yellow Book helpful for administrative purposes. For those who do not reside in Thailand, it is generally unnecessary.

The Tabien Baan is maintained by the district office for population registration, while property ownership falls under the authority of the Land Department. Understanding the difference helps buyers avoid confusion and ensures they use the correct documents when making decisions.