Thailand Company Registration – Complete Legal Setup with The Thailand Lawyer Service

Establishing a company in Thailand is a strategic move for investors, entrepreneurs, and business owners looking to expand their presence in Southeast Asia. With its dynamic economy, prime geographic location, and government-driven pro-business policies, Thailand offers a thriving environment for both local and foreign investors. At The Thailand Lawyer Service, based in Bangkok, we specialize in guiding clients through the entire process of company registration, ensuring every step complies with Thai corporate law and delivers a legally sound foundation for your business.

Why Register a Company in Thailand?

Thailand is one of the most popular destinations for business setup in Southeast Asia. Its growing economy, developed infrastructure, affordable labor, and strategic location make it attractive for investors from around the world. In addition, the Thai government offers a relatively straightforward registration process, especially with professional legal guidance. Whether you’re planning to start a trading business, tech company, restaurant, consultancy, or factory, forming a company in Thailand can open the doors to long-term success and regional expansion.

Types of Companies in Thailand

Before proceeding with the registration process, it’s important to understand the common legal entities available in Thailand:

  1. Limited Company (Private)

    • The most popular structure for foreign investors

    • Requires at least 2 shareholders and 1 director

    • Offers limited liability to its shareholders

  2. Partnership

    • Includes Ordinary Partnership and Limited Partnership

    • Mostly used by Thai citizens

    • Less preferred for foreign investors due to liability risks

  3. Representative Office

    • Permits market research and liaison activities

    • Cannot generate income or sign contracts

    • Used by foreign companies exploring the Thai market

  4. Branch Office

    • Extension of a foreign company

    • Can generate income

    • Must comply with specific Foreign Business Act regulations

  5. BOI-Promoted Company

    • Offers tax and non-tax incentives

    • Ideal for industries such as manufacturing, tech, and R&D

    • Requires approval from the Board of Investment

Our legal experts at The Thailand Lawyer Service help assess your business goals to select the most suitable structure for your company in Thailand.

Step-by-Step Company Registration Process in Thailand

Setting up a business in Thailand involves multiple stages. Our experienced legal team ensures each step is handled precisely and professionally.

1. Company Name Reservation

  • Submit three name choices to the Department of Business Development (DBD)

  • Name must be unique and not resemble existing company names

  • Approval typically takes 1-3 business days

2. Filing the Memorandum of Association (MOA)

  • Includes company name, registered office, objectives, and shareholder details

  • All shareholders must sign the MOA

  • Filed with the DBD

3. Statutory Meeting

  • Held once share capital is fully subscribed

  • Appointment of directors

  • Approval of company bylaws and financial year

  • Authorization for company registration

4. Company Registration with the DBD

  • File all official documents and MOA within 90 days of name reservation

  • Receive Certificate of Incorporation and company registration number

  • Legal entity is now formed

5. Tax Registration and VAT (if applicable)

  • Register for Tax ID with the Revenue Department

  • If annual revenue exceeds threshold, VAT registration is required

  • Social security registration is also needed if you hire employees

6. Opening a Corporate Bank Account

  • Open a business bank account in Thailand under your company’s name

  • Directors and authorized signatories must be present with the necessary documents

7. Other Licenses and Permits

  • Depending on your business activities, additional licenses may be required

  • Common licenses include restaurant license, import/export license, or factory license

Foreign Ownership and the Foreign Business Act

Foreigners can own a business in Thailand but must comply with the Foreign Business Act (FBA). This law restricts foreign ownership in certain industries unless specific permission is granted. In most cases, foreign ownership is limited to 49%, with Thai nationals holding the remaining 51%.

However, there are ways for foreigners to obtain majority ownership through:

  • BOI Promotion

  • Treaty of Amity (U.S. nationals only)

  • Using Thai nominee shareholders (not legally advised without transparency)

Our team will guide you through the legal ways to maximize foreign control while remaining fully compliant with Thai laws.

Corporate Governance and Shareholding Requirements

A standard Thai limited company must have:

  • At least 2 shareholders (can be individuals or legal entities)

  • At least 1 director

  • A registered office address in Thailand

  • Minimum capital requirement, depending on visa/work permit requirements

Shareholders can be of any nationality, and meetings can be conducted in person or remotely, provided corporate resolutions are recorded correctly.

Maintaining Compliance After Registration

After your company is registered, several legal obligations must be fulfilled regularly:

  • Annual Financial Statements must be submitted to the DBD and the Revenue Department

  • Tax filings, including monthly VAT (if applicable), withholding tax, and corporate income tax

  • Social security contributions for all employees

  • Board resolutions and minutes for major decisions

  • Work permit and visa renewals for foreign directors or employees

Non-compliance can result in fines, penalties, or even business closure. That’s why The Thailand Lawyer Service offers continuous legal and accounting support to ensure your company remains fully compliant.

Business Visa and Work Permit Assistance

Foreign directors, shareholders, and employees must have the appropriate visa and work permit to operate legally in Thailand. Common visas include:

  • Non-Immigrant “B” Visa for business

  • Work Permit obtained after company registration

  • Extension of Stay to live and work long-term

Our firm streamlines the entire visa and work permit process as part of our corporate services package, saving you time and avoiding complications.

Why Choose The Thailand Lawyer Service?

Located in the heart of Bangkok, The Thailand Lawyer Service offers comprehensive legal support tailored to individuals and companies seeking to establish their presence in Thailand. With years of experience and deep knowledge of Thai corporate law, we handle every aspect of your company registration, from initial consultation to long-term compliance.

We assist:

  • Foreign entrepreneurs entering the Thai market

  • Local businesses looking to formalize operations

  • Investors seeking legal structures to hold property or intellectual assets

  • Companies seeking visa sponsorship and legal employee hiring

Our goal is to remove the confusion and delay from the registration process so you can focus on growing your business in Thailand.

Start Your Company in Thailand Today

If you’re ready to register a company in Thailand, it’s essential to do it right from the start. A properly established business ensures smooth operations, full legal protection, and long-term success. The Thailand Lawyer Service is your trusted partner in company formation, legal structuring, and corporate compliance.

Get in touch with our Bangkok office to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward your Thailand company registration.

Contact The Thailand Lawyer Service Today
Expert Legal Setup for Your Business in Thailand
Bangkok-based, Internationally Trusted
Let’s build your business with confidence.