Thai Company Formation Setup – Expert Legal Support in Bangkok

Setting up a business in Thailand is a strategic step for many entrepreneurs and foreign investors looking to expand in Southeast Asia. With a growing economy, attractive market potential, and a stable legal framework, Thailand offers multiple benefits for both local and foreign business owners. However, navigating the legal and regulatory framework can be complex. At The Thailand Lawyer Service, we offer complete legal support for company formation in Thailand, ensuring compliance, efficiency, and peace of mind.

Why Set Up a Company in Thailand?

Thailand is a top destination for foreign investors due to its favorable location, well-developed infrastructure, skilled workforce, and access to ASEAN markets. Establishing a Thai company allows investors to operate within the legal framework, apply for work permits, and gain better market access and credibility.

The most common and practical legal structure for doing business in Thailand is the Private Limited Company (Co., Ltd.). It is suitable for both small and large businesses, allowing foreign ownership within specific limits, and offering a clear separation between owners and management.

Step-by-Step Guide to Thai Company Formation

The process of Thai company formation consists of several legal and administrative steps. Our Bangkok-based law firm guides you through each phase professionally and efficiently.

1. Choosing a Company Name

The first step involves reserving a unique company name with the Department of Business Development (DBD). The name must not be identical or similar to an existing entity in Thailand. We help you check name availability and reserve it according to the DBD’s criteria.

2. Preparing the Memorandum of Association (MOA)

The Memorandum of Association outlines the company’s name, address, objectives, registered capital, number of shares, and shareholder details. At this stage, the company must have at least three promoters (initial shareholders), who can be individuals or legal entities. Our legal team ensures that the MOA is properly structured and filed.

3. Convene a Statutory Meeting

A statutory meeting is required to approve the company’s regulations, appoint directors, and determine share allocation. This meeting finalizes internal decisions related to the business structure.

4. Company Registration with the DBD

After the statutory meeting, the company must be officially registered with the Department of Business Development. The registration includes submitting the MOA, minutes of the statutory meeting, shareholder list, and other supporting documents. Once registered, the company becomes a legal entity under Thai law.

5. Registering for Tax Identification Number and VAT

All companies in Thailand must register for a tax identification number (TIN) within 60 days of incorporation. Depending on the business type and expected revenue, VAT registration may also be required. Our lawyers handle tax and VAT registration to ensure full compliance with the Revenue Department.

6. Social Security and Payroll Setup

If your company hires employees, it must register with the Social Security Office and contribute to the social security fund. Our legal service includes assistance with social security registration and payroll setup.

Foreign Shareholding and Thai Majority

According to Thai law, foreign ownership in a Thai company is generally limited to 49%, with Thai nationals holding the remaining 51%. However, certain exemptions exist through BOI promotion, treaties, or other legal mechanisms.

For most business sectors, if foreign ownership exceeds 49%, a Foreign Business License (FBL) is required. This license is subject to approval and comes with conditions. Our legal team evaluates your business goals and determines the most suitable structure—whether under Thai majority or through legal structuring options compliant with Thai regulations.

Director and Shareholder Requirements

A Thai limited company must have:

  • At least three shareholders at the time of registration.

  • At least one director who can be a foreigner or a Thai national.

The company can later reduce the number of shareholders, but the minimum number must be maintained. We advise on nominee laws, shareholder agreements, and board composition to ensure that your company structure meets both legal and operational needs.

Registered Office Address

Every Thai company must have a registered address in Thailand where official documents and notices can be sent. This address must be a real location and cannot be a virtual office. Our law firm can assist with address registration, office lease agreements, and documentation required by the authorities.

Share Capital and Bank Account Setup

A Thai company must have a minimum registered capital, and depending on the number of foreign employees, the capital amount may vary. Typically, 25% of the registered capital must be paid up upon registration, with the rest payable later.

After company registration, a corporate bank account is opened under the company’s name. To do this, directors must be physically present at the bank with the necessary documents. We help prepare bank letters and facilitate meetings with preferred banking institutions.

Work Permit and Business Visa (Non-Immigrant “B” Visa)

Once your Thai company is formed, it can sponsor foreign employees, including the managing director. The company must be registered and compliant with capital and staffing requirements to apply for a business visa and work permit.

Our legal service includes complete support for:

  • Business visa application

  • Work permit processing

  • Immigration office procedures

  • Ongoing visa extensions and reporting

Annual Compliance and Ongoing Legal Obligations

Once your company is registered, it must comply with ongoing legal requirements, including:

  • Annual audit and financial statement filing with the DBD

  • Corporate income tax return submission

  • Employee withholding tax and VAT reporting

  • Social security contributions

  • Shareholder meetings and minutes

Failure to meet these obligations can lead to fines or deregistration. Our team at The Thailand Lawyer Service ensures timely compliance and submission of all required reports and documents.

Why Choose The Thailand Lawyer Service?

Based in Bangkok, we offer reliable, efficient, and professional legal services for all aspects of Thai company formation. Whether you are starting a small business, a branch office, or a foreign-invested company, we provide tailored legal guidance and representation at every step.

Our services cover:

  • Company registration and legal structuring

  • Shareholder and director setup

  • Tax and social security registration

  • Visa and work permit services

  • Corporate compliance and reporting

  • Legal consultation on business regulations

With deep experience in Thai corporate law, we are committed to making your company formation process smooth and legally sound.

Start Your Thai Business the Right Way

Setting up a company in Thailand can open the door to new opportunities, but the legal process requires precision and local knowledge. With The Thailand Lawyer Service, you gain a legal partner that understands the system and works to protect your interests from day one.

Whether you are an entrepreneur, an investor, or a foreign company expanding into the Thai market, we are ready to help you build a solid foundation for success.

Contact us today to get started with your Thai company formation setup. Let our Bangkok-based legal team handle the paperwork, legalities, and compliance—so you can focus on growing your business.