Register your company in Thailand. Hassle-free & fast!

Navigating company registration in Thailand can be a complex journey, given its unique restrictions on foreign ownership. However, with the right guidance, securing your foreign interests and establishing a solid foundation for your business is entirely achievable.

Consulting a knowledgeable law firm is your first critical step to ensure that your setup aligns with legal requirements while safeguarding your interests.

Company Setup Options in Thailand

Partnership Entity

Partnerships are a common legal structure in Thailand, requiring at least two people. They can be unlimited (ordinary partnership) or limited liability (limited partnership) entities. However, this option is complex for foreigners and often not fully recognized by authorities.

Branch Office

A branch office of a foreign company can invoice, unlike a Representative Office. However, it requires specific licensing and approval as a foreign-owned trading business. This process is time-consuming and expensive. Since a branch office lacks shareholders, the head office is fully liable for all activities of its Thailand branch.

Amity Company

US individuals or entities can hold majority shares in a Thai limited company. This option requires extra procedures and documentation, which extends the process. However, licensing is typically granted if the business doesn't fall under foreign business law restrictions.

Representative Office

A foreign company may open a representative office (RO) in Thailand. This avoids costs and legal ownership issues, as no Thai partner is needed. An RO can obtain work permits for up to two foreign staff. The head office funds the RO's expenses like rent and salaries. However, an RO cannot invoice; it supports head office activities, but all billing and payments must go through the head office.

Foreign Owned Thai Limited Company

This structure mirrors a Thai limited company but with foreign majority ownership. While registration is possible, trading requires a Foreign Business License. This involves proving the company's activities aren't restricted and will benefit Thailand's society and economy. The licensing process typically takes 3-6 months, with no guaranteed approval.

Board of Investment (BOI) Promoted Company

The BOI allows Thai limited companies to be foreign owned if the activities fall within the list of businesses it is willing to promote. BOI certification comes with a range of benefits in addition to foreign ownership, including tax relief and granting of multiple work permits and visas. The process is relatively complicated and involves one or more interviews with company directors. Contact us if you want to know whether your business falls within BOI promotion.

Thai Limited Company

As explained above, this is the most common business type in Thailand for locals and foreigners. This type of business structure is reliable, secured, and easy. The Thai Limited Company is very similar to other business structures in your home country with shareholders, directors, and other considerations… A Thai Limited Company may need licenses to work in certain sectors.

Company Registration Procedure in Thailand

Select the most suitable business type, such as a Limited Company, Representative Office, Branch Office, or Joint Venture. Each structure has different legal requirements and ownership rules.
Register your intended business activities in compliance with Thai law. Certain industries may require specific licenses or government approvals before operation.
Ensure the registered capital is sufficient for business operations. While there is no general minimum requirement, companies must register adequate capital to cover business expenses. To sponsor a foreign work permit, at least 2 million THB per foreign employee is required and must be 100% paid up, along with maintaining a 4:1 Thai-to-foreigner workforce ratio.
Prepare and submit key documents, including the Articles of Association (AoA), shareholder details, and company objectives, to the Department of Business Development (DBD).
Obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN), register for Value-Added Tax (VAT) if applicable, and comply with corporate income tax and financial reporting obligations.
Secure work permits and appropriate visas for foreign directors and employees.
Set up a local business bank account for financial transactions, tax payments, and payroll management.
Meet Thai legal compliance requirements by submitting annual financial statements, fulfilling tax obligations, and ensuring proper employment registrations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a foreigner open a company in Thailand?

Yes, foreigners can open a company in Thailand. The most common structure is a Thai Limited Company, where foreigners can hold up to 49% of shares unless special permissions (e.g. BOI promotion or US Amity Treaty) allow majority foreign ownership. ATA can guide you through the best structure based on your business goals and nationality.

Do I need a Thai partner to open a company in Thailand?

For a standard Thai Limited Company, a Thai partner is typically required to hold at least 51% of shares. However, exceptions exist for BOI-promoted businesses, US Amity Treaty companies, or Representative Offices, where majority foreign ownership is permitted. ATA will recommend the most appropriate setup for your needs.

What is a BOI-promoted company and who qualifies?

A BOI (Board of Investment) promoted company allows majority or 100% foreign ownership for businesses in targeted industries such as tech, manufacturing, R&D, and services that benefit Thailand. BOI companies enjoy perks like tax exemptions and multiple work permits. ATA Services can assess whether your business qualifies and assist with the application.

How long does it take to register a company in Thailand?

The process typically takes 1–2 weeks for a standard Thai Limited Company, provided all documents are in order. More complex setups, like BOI-promoted companies or Foreign Business Licenses, can take 3 to 6 months due to additional licensing and government approvals. ATA ensures that every step is handled efficiently to minimise delays.

What is the minimum capital required to start a company in Thailand?

There is no fixed minimum for company registration itself, but to sponsor a foreign work permit, the company must have at least 2 million THB in registered capital per foreign employee. This capital must be fully paid up. ATA can help determine the optimal capital structure for your business goals.

Register your company in Thailand. Hassle-free & fast!

Company Setup Options in Thailand

Partnership Entity

Partnerships are a common legal structure in Thailand, requiring at least two people. They can be unlimited (ordinary partnership) or limited liability (limited partnership) entities. However, this option is complex for foreigners and often not fully recognized by authorities.

Branch Office

Amity Company

US individuals or entities can hold majority shares in a Thai limited company. This option requires extra procedures and documentation, which extends the process. However, licensing is typically granted if the business doesn't fall under foreign business law restrictions.

Representative Office

Foreign Owned Thai Limited Company

Board of Investment (BOI) Promoted Company

Thai Limited Company

Company Registration Procedure in Thailand

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