Understanding Thai Company Registration
Hey there, future business owner! 👋 Looking to register a company in Thailand? You’ve landed in the right place! This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Thai company registration in 2025.
Key Facts About Company Registration in Thailand:
- Registration completion time: 1-2 business days
- Full business setup time: 2 weeks average
- Minimum shareholders required: 2
- Required registered capital: Starts from ฿100,000
- Foreign ownership restrictions: Yes (with exceptions)
Types of Business Structures
Private Limited Company Registration
The most popular choice for foreigners starting a business in Thailand! Here’s what you need:
✅ Minimum Requirements:
- 2 or more shareholders
- 1 director minimum
- Registered office address
- 25% paid-up capital
- Company name in Thai and English
Thailand Representative Office Setup
Perfect for foreign companies testing the Thai market:
✅ Allowed Activities:
- Market research
- Quality control
- Sourcing goods
- Business coordination
- Advisory services
Thailand Branch Office Registration
For established foreign companies entering Thailand:
✅ Key Features:
- Revenue generation allowed
- Full head office liability
- Restricted business activities
- Separate legal entity status
Registration Requirements
Capital Requirements for Thai Company Registration
- Thai Majority-Owned Companies:
- Minimum recommended: ฿100,000
- Industry-specific requirements may apply
- Foreign Majority-Owned Companies:
- Work permit support: ฿2,000,000
- Foreign Business License: ฿3,000,000
- BOI promotion: ฿5,000,000+
Document Checklist for Company Registration in Thailand
Thai Shareholders Need:
- Thai ID card (copy)
- House registration
- Bank statement
- Professional photo
- Signature sample
Foreign Shareholders Need:
- Complete passport copy
- Thailand visa copy
- Work permit (if applicable)
- Bank statement
- Proof of address
Step-by-Step Registration Process
Phase 1: Initial Registration (1-2 Days)
- Company name reservation
- Documentation preparation
- Registration submission
- Certificate collection
Phase 2: Setup Phase (1-2 Weeks)
- Shareholder agreements
- Capital injection
- Bank account opening
- Tax registration
Phase 3: Compliance Setup (1 Week)
- VAT registration
- Social security setup
- Workmen’s compensation
- Accounting system setup
Foreign Business Considerations
Foreign Business License Options
- BOI Promotion
- 100% foreign ownership possible
- Tax incentives available
- Easier work permit process
- Foreign Business License
- 60-90 day processing
- Higher capital requirements
- Limited business activities
- U.S. Treaty of Amity
- Exclusive to U.S. citizens
- Nearly equal rights as Thai companies
- Faster processing time
Costs and Timeline
Registration Costs in Thailand
- Basic registration: ฿5,000-8,000
- Foreign Business License: Additional fees apply
- BOI application: Separate fee structure
- Ongoing compliance costs: Variable
Timeline Overview
- Name reservation: 1-2 days
- Document preparation: 1 week
- Registration: 1-2 days
- Bank account: 1-2 weeks
- Total setup: 2-3 weeks average
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! While initial registration can be done remotely with proper legal representation, you’ll need to be present for bank account opening.
The minimum capital varies:
- Thai-owned: ฿100,000 recommended
- Foreign-owned: ฿2,000,000 for work permits
- FBL activities: ฿3,000,000 minimum
For work permit purposes:
- Regular business: 4 Thai employees per 1 foreigner
- BOI promoted: 2 Thai employees per 1 foreigner
Yes, but with conditions:
- House/apartment must allow business registration
- Many condos prohibit business registration
- Virtual office solutions are available
Pro Tips for Successful Thai Company Registration 🌟
- Choose Qualified Professionals
- Licensed law firm
- Certified accountant
- Experienced business consultants
- Maintain Proper Documentation
- Organize all paperwork
- Keep digital copies
- Follow filing deadlines
- Plan for Compliance
- Annual filings
- Monthly tax returns
- Work permit renewals
- Avoid Common Pitfalls
- No nominee shareholders
No under-capitalization
No unauthorized activities
- No nominee shareholders
Updated: March 2025 – Remember that regulations change frequently. Always consult with qualified professionals for the most current requirements and procedures for company registration in Thailand.