Business guide hub
Build and run a business in Thailand
Practical guides to starting, promoting, operating and staffing a business in Thailand.
Company setupFrom structure to registration
Foreign ownershipUnderstand the rules
Visas and work permitsStay and work legally
Tax and complianceMeet your obligations
Choose the guide you need
Expert guides with clear steps, practical tips and official sources.
Featured guide
How to Start a Business in Thailand
A practical roadmap for starting a business in Thailand, covering market validation, legal structure, foreign ownership, licences, registration, tax, banking and hiring.
Read guideBOI Investment Promotion Guide
A practical guide to Thailand BOI promotion: eligible activities, project criteria, potential incentives, application evidence, timelines and post-approval obligations.
Read guideBusiness Visa Guide for Thailand
Business visa options, eligibility questions and practical checks before applying or extending.
Read guideWork Permit Requirements in Thailand
A practical guide to Thailand work permits, including eligibility checks, employer and worker documents, standard and BOI routes, prohibited occupations, renewals and compliance.
Read guideTax Guide for Businesses in Thailand
A practical guide to corporate income tax, VAT, withholding tax, payroll, filing deadlines and record keeping for businesses operating in Thailand.
Read guideYour business journey
Follow these steps to build and run your business in Thailand.
Define activities
Clarify what the business will do.
Choose structure
Find the right legal structure.
Check foreign ownership
Understand restrictions and options.
Register the company
Prepare documents and complete registration.
Arrange visas and permits
Get the right visas and work permissions.
Set up tax and payroll
Register for tax, VAT and payroll as required.
Key decisions before you begin
Understand the main areas that will shape your business.
Business activities
Check whether your planned activities are permitted.
Thai and foreign ownership
Understand ownership limits and available routes.
Registered capital
Consider the capital appropriate for your structure.
Directors and signatories
Understand who can direct and sign for the company.
Licences and BOI
Check licences and whether BOI promotion may apply.
Accounting and annual filings
Know the ongoing reporting and compliance duties.
Compare common routes
An overview of common options for foreign businesses in Thailand.
| Business structure | Best for | Ownership considerations | Key next step |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thai limited company | Trading and service businesses | Foreign ownership may be restricted depending on activities | Check eligible activities and prepare registration documents |
| BOI-promoted company | Businesses in targeted sectors seeking incentives | Promotion may allow different ownership treatment | Review eligible activities and apply for promotion |
| Representative office | Market research, liaison and support activities | Cannot undertake commercial trading activities | Confirm scope and prepare the required application |
Before you register
- Confirm your business activities are permitted
- Understand foreign ownership rules
- Choose the right legal structure
- Prepare required documents
- Set a realistic budget and timeline
- Seek professional advice where needed
After incorporation
- Obtain a tax identification number
- Register for VAT where applicable
- Set up accounting and bookkeeping
- Register for Social Security where required
- Maintain required licences and permits
- File annual returns and financial statements
Business services and support
Find trusted professionals to help at every stage.
SERVICE
Company setup specialists
Get support with registration and compliance.
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Business lawyers
Get advice on structure, contracts and regulations.
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Accountants
Support with tax, accounting and payroll.
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Recruitment and HR
Find and hire talent in Thailand.
Find a providerFrequently asked questions
Can a foreigner own 100% of a Thai company?
It depends on the business activity, structure, nationality, treaty position and whether an approval or investment-promotion route applies. Confirm the current rules before committing.
How much registered capital is required?
Capital depends on the structure, activities, licensing and immigration needs. The registered amount and payment timing should be planned with qualified advice.
When is VAT registration required?
VAT registration generally depends on taxable turnover and the nature of the activity. Check the current threshold and exceptions with Thailand's Revenue Department.
Do directors need work permits?
A director who performs work in Thailand may need the correct immigration status and work authorisation. The answer depends on the actual duties and circumstances.
What must be filed each year?
Companies normally have accounting, financial-statement, tax and corporate filing duties. Requirements and deadlines depend on the entity and activities.
When should I consider BOI promotion?
Consider BOI early if the proposed activity is in a promoted sector and the incentives or ownership framework could materially affect the setup route.
Information you can verify
Use our source links to confirm current requirements with the responsible Thai authority.
Ready to plan your business?
Get the right information and trusted support for your business in Thailand.