To legally operate a business in Thailand, obtaining the correct business licenses is essential. These must be secured before starting any commercial activity. The type of license you need depends on your industry — such as F&B, tourism, hospitality, education, or retail.

At J&E Concierge Pattaya, we provide full assistance in acquiring business operating licenses, guiding you through every step to ensure your company is fully compliant and ready to trade.

🔹 Additional Requirements for Thai Limited Companies:

• Minimum Thai Employees: A limited company must employ at least 4 Thai nationals to sponsor one foreign work permit.

• Work Permits: Foreign employees must obtain work permits and be registered in Thailand’s Social Security Fund.

• Registered Capital: A Thai Limited Company must have a minimum capital of 2 million THB (for each foreign work permit, if applicable).

• Shareholder Documentation: You must submit 2 copies of each shareholder’s ID and a proof of address.

• Business Location Proof: If you lease your commercial space, 3 copies of the rental agreement are required.

• Foreign Shareholding Over 40%: You may be required to submit bank statements from each shareholder every 6 months.

💡 Planning to open a hotel, restaurant, or other business in Thailand?
J&E Concierge provides expert legal, accounting, and licensing support — from the initial company setup to ongoing compliance.

Before setting up a company in Thailand, it’s important to understand the different types of business entities available. Each structure has its own legal and operational implications, especially for foreigners.

🔹 1. Private Limited Company (Co., Ltd.)

• The most popular choice among foreign investors

• Requires at least 3 shareholders (promoters) and 1 director

• Shareholder liability is limited to the amount of capital subscribed

• Annual financial statements must be audited and submitted to the Department of Business Development (DBD)

✅ Most similar to Western-style corporate structures. Flexible and cost-effective.

🔹 2. Public Limited Company (PLC)

• Requires at least 15 promoters

• Can offer shares to the public (stock exchange listing possible)

• Promoters must hold shares for at least 2 years

✅ Suitable for large-scale operations and companies planning to go public.

🔹 3. Limited Partnership

• Includes one general partner with unlimited liability and limited partners with liability limited to their investment

• Must be registered

⚠️ Less common for foreigners due to risk exposure

🔹 4. Branch Office

• Allows a foreign company to operate in Thailand

• Must register with the Ministry of Commerce

• Subject to Thai law and taxation

✅ Suitable for companies that want to expand operations without forming a new legal entity

🔹 5. Representative Office

• Limited scope: can conduct non-revenue-generating activities such as:

  • Sourcing goods or services

  • Inspecting quality

  • Providing company information

• Cannot generate income, sign contracts, or negotiate deals

✅ Best for market research or supplier coordination

Choosing the right business entity in Thailand depends on your goals, capital, and whether you need local or foreign majority control.
💼 Need help choosing the right structure? Contact J&E Concierge Pattaya for expert advice and full company registration support.

When registering a company in Thailand, especially as a foreigner, it’s essential to understand and comply with the country’s legal requirements. These responsibilities affect everything from ownership structure to accounting practices.

🔹 1. Ownership Restrictions

• Foreigners are generally limited to owning a maximum of 49% of a Thai company under the Foreign Business Act.

• To retain majority control, many foreign entrepreneurs partner with a Thai citizen or apply for BOI (Board of Investment) promotion, which may allow 100% foreign ownership in certain sectors.

🔹 2. Visa and Work Permit Requirements

• To legally work in your own company, you must apply for a Non-Immigrant “B” (Business) Visa, followed by a Work Permit.

• The company must employ at least 4 Thai employees per foreigner and have 2 million THB in registered capital for each work permit.

🔹 3. Employment Regulations

• You may hire both Thai and foreign staff, but labor laws and registration requirements differ.

• Foreign staff must be registered with the Social Security Office, and contracts must comply with Thai labor law.

🔹 4. Accounting and Tax Compliance

• Thai law mandates monthly bookkeeping, VAT submissions (if applicable), and annual audited financial statements.

• A certified Thai accountant must manage your company’s financial reporting and tax filings.

📌 Failing to meet any of these requirements can lead to fines, business suspension, or visa issues. That’s why working with an experienced consultancy is crucial for ensuring full compliance.

✅ Need help navigating Thai legal obligations?

J&E Concierge Pattaya offers full support with company registration, accounting, work permits, and legal compliance — so you can focus on growing your business with confidence.