How to Register a Company in Thailand as a Foreigner (2025 Legal Guide)
Starting a business in Thailand is an attractive opportunity for many foreign entrepreneurs and investors. With its growing economy, strategic location, and access to ASEAN markets, Thailand is one of Southeast Asia’s most sought-after destinations for setting up a company.
But as a foreigner, you must navigate several legal requirements and restrictions. Here’s what you need to know — and how our legal team can help.
Business Structures Available to Foreigners in Thailand
Foreigners can generally set up the following types of businesses:
- Thai Limited Company (Most Common)
- BOI-Promoted Company (with 100% foreign ownership)
- Foreign Business License (FBL) Entity
- Representative or Branch Office
Each option has different ownership, control, and licensing requirements. Most foreigners choose the Thai Limited Company, which may require Thai majority shareholders unless promoted by the BOI.
Step-by-Step: How to Register a Thai Company as a Foreigner
1. Name Reservation
Submit your preferred company name for approval through the Department of Business Development (DBD) website.
2. Prepare the Documents
You’ll need:
- Passport copies of all foreign shareholders/directors
- Thai ID copies of Thai partners (if applicable)
- Office lease agreement
- Company objectives and address
- Articles of Association (AOA)
3. Register the Company with the DBD
Once all documents are ready, the company can be officially registered with the DBD and will receive a Company Registration Number.
4. Apply for Tax ID & VAT
Register with the Revenue Department. VAT registration is mandatory if your annual revenue exceeds 1.8 million THB or if your business type requires it by law.
5. Open a Corporate Bank Account
All companies in Thailand must open a corporate bank account under the company name.
6. Apply for Business Licenses (If Required)
Certain business activities—such as tourism, real estate, restaurants, schools, and others—require additional licenses before operating legally.
Foreign Business License (FBL)
If your company will be more than 49% foreign-owned and falls under a restricted category of the Foreign Business Act, you must apply for a Foreign Business License (FBL).
⚖️ Our Tip: The FBL process involves strict scrutiny, detailed documentation, and a strong business rationale. Our team at Specter CNC & Partners has in-depth experience navigating FBL approvals for international clients.
👉 Learn more about our FBL services
BOI Promotion: 100% Foreign Ownership
Businesses that qualify for promotion by the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) can enjoy 100% foreign ownership along with valuable incentives:
- Corporate income tax exemptions
- Visa and work permit privileges
- Import duty exemptions
- Streamlined foreign ownership rights
BOI is ideal for businesses in sectors such as technology, manufacturing, R&D, digital services, logistics, and innovation.
👉 Explore our BOI Company Setup Services
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding legal and procedural mistakes can save you time, money, and legal risk. Common errors include:
- Registering without legal advice on structure or compliance
- Submitting incomplete or mistranslated documents
Why Work with Specter CNC & Partners?
At Specter CNC & Partners Co., Ltd., we provide expert legal and corporate services for international clients, including:
- Company formation for foreigners
- BOI and FBL applications
- Drafting shareholder & joint venture agreements
- Work permit and visa services
- Corporate governance and compliance
Our bilingual Thai-English legal team ensures your company is registered smoothly, legally, and in full compliance with Thai law.
📞 Ready to Start a Business in Thailand?
Let us handle your company registration from start to finish.
We provide full legal guidance, local compliance support, and licensing assistance tailored to your business goals.
📩 Contact Our Lawyers Now
📞 Call: +66 (62) 6960429
📍 Offices: Bangkok | Phuket | Samui | Pattaya | Koh Phangan
