BOI Approved Company Registration & Business Visa Setup in Thailand – Expert Legal Support by The Thailand Lawyer Service

Starting a business in Thailand offers great opportunities, especially for foreign investors looking to tap into Southeast Asia’s thriving markets. One of the most advantageous pathways for foreign entrepreneurs is through establishing a company under the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI). With the benefits of 100% foreign ownership, visa and work permit facilitation, and tax incentives, a BOI-approved company is the most business-friendly structure for overseas investors. At The Thailand Lawyer Service in Bangkok, we provide comprehensive legal support to streamline your BOI company registration and business visa setup.

This guide explains everything you need to know about BOI company registration and the associated visa process in Thailand — from eligibility and business categories to legal procedures and required documentation.

Understanding BOI (Board of Investment) in Thailand

The Thailand Board of Investment is a government agency under the Prime Minister’s Office responsible for promoting foreign investment. It offers incentives and privileges to businesses operating in key economic sectors. BOI support is especially beneficial for foreigners, as it provides an alternative to restrictive foreign business laws by allowing majority or even 100% foreign ownership in certain approved industries.

Advantages of a BOI-Approved Company in Thailand

Forming a company under BOI promotion provides numerous strategic benefits:

  • 100% Foreign Ownership in permitted sectors

  • Exemption from Foreign Business License (FBL)

  • Multiple Work Permits without the usual Thai-to-foreigner employee ratio

  • Corporate Income Tax Exemptions and reductions

  • Import Duty Exemptions on machinery and raw materials

  • Land Ownership Rights for promoted companies

  • Long-Term Business Visas and streamlined immigration services

BOI-Eligible Business Activities

The BOI targets industries that drive national economic growth and technological advancement. Some of the most commonly approved sectors include:

  • Software and IT services

  • Biotechnology and life sciences

  • Manufacturing (especially high-tech or eco-friendly)

  • Agriculture and food processing

  • Logistics and warehousing

  • Renewable energy

  • Medical services

  • Electronics and automation

  • Education and vocational training

  • R&D and innovation services

Each sector has its own specific criteria, investment thresholds, and operational requirements.

BOI Company Registration Process in Thailand

The process for setting up a BOI company involves multiple stages, including applying for investment promotion, incorporating the company, and applying for visas and work permits. Below is a step-by-step breakdown:

Step 1: BOI Promotion Application

  1. Project Planning – Determine the business type and investment structure.

  2. Online Application Submission – File an online application through the BOI e-investment portal.

  3. Interview with BOI Officer – Present the project in detail, including business objectives, technology, investment, and benefits to Thailand.

  4. BOI Review and Approval – BOI evaluates the project based on eligibility criteria and incentives requested.

  5. Approval Letter Issued – If approved, you will receive a formal Promotion Certificate valid for use in further registration and licensing.

Step 2: Registering the Company

Once BOI approval is obtained:

  1. Company Name Reservation – Reserve the business name through the Department of Business Development (DBD).

  2. Memorandum of Association (MOA) – Draft and file the MOA with information on shareholders, objectives, capital, and company address.

  3. Statutory Meeting – Finalize share allocation, appoint directors, and approve company regulations.

  4. Company Registration – Submit documents and register the company with the DBD.

  5. BOI Certificate Confirmation – Confirm the registration with the BOI to validate the promotion status.

Step 3: Tax and Labor Registration

  1. Tax ID and VAT Registration – Register for corporate tax and VAT with the Revenue Department.

  2. Social Security Registration – Enroll employees in Thailand’s social security system.

  3. Accounting Setup – Prepare bookkeeping and accounting practices in compliance with Thai law.

Business Visa and Work Permit Process for BOI Companies

One of the most valuable advantages of a BOI company is simplified immigration processes for foreign directors, shareholders, and skilled professionals.

Non-Immigrant “B” Visa for Business

A BOI-promoted company can sponsor foreign nationals for a Non-Immigrant “B” visa, which is the standard business visa in Thailand.

Steps to apply:

  1. Visa Approval Letter from BOI – Request approval through the BOI’s One Start One Stop Investment Center (OSOS).

  2. Apply at Thai Embassy or Consulate – Present required documents at your home country’s Thai Embassy.

  3. Initial Visa Issued – Usually a 90-day single-entry visa for business purposes.

Work Permit Application

Foreign staff employed by a BOI company can obtain work permits with fewer restrictions compared to non-BOI firms.

Documents required:

  • BOI promotion certificate

  • Company registration documents

  • Employment contract

  • Educational qualifications

  • Passport copies

  • Medical certificate

Work permits are issued at the BOI office rather than the Ministry of Labor, and the company is not subject to the 4:1 Thai-to-foreigner ratio.

Visa Extension & Re-Entry

After the work permit is issued, the Non-B visa can be extended to one year or more depending on contract terms. Re-entry permits are also issued to allow international travel without affecting visa status.

Ongoing BOI Compliance Requirements

BOI companies must comply with ongoing reporting and operational obligations to maintain their promotion privileges:

  • Submit periodic progress reports and financial records to BOI.

  • Adhere to approved business activities and conditions.

  • Maintain transparent accounting and payroll practices.

  • Notify BOI of any changes in company structure or project scope.

Failure to comply may result in revocation of BOI privileges and visas.

Why Work with The Thailand Lawyer Service in Bangkok?

Navigating the BOI registration and visa process can be complex and time-consuming without expert guidance. At The Thailand Lawyer Service, we specialize in helping international investors legally and efficiently set up their BOI-approved companies in Thailand.

Our services include:

  • End-to-end BOI application handling

  • Strategic business planning and structuring

  • Legal document preparation and filing

  • Company incorporation and tax registration

  • Visa and work permit support for executives and staff

  • Ongoing legal and regulatory compliance assistance

Our legal team understands the unique challenges foreign entrepreneurs face and ensures a smooth experience from setup to operation.

 

Thailand’s BOI promotion scheme is a powerful gateway for foreign investors to enter and grow in the Thai market with significant legal and financial benefits. By forming a BOI-approved company, you gain access to full ownership rights, long-term visas, tax incentives, and simplified work permit processes. Whether you’re launching a tech startup, expanding a logistics business, or establishing an advanced manufacturing facility, BOI registration is the most efficient and profitable route.

Let The Thailand Lawyer Service be your trusted legal partner in this journey. We’re here in Bangkok to provide the expert guidance, legal clarity, and dependable service you need to confidently start and run your BOI business in Thailand.

For more information or to begin your BOI registration, contact us today and schedule your legal consultation.