Thailand Company Registration Cost Guide – Expert Legal Setup in Bangkok
Setting up a company in Thailand is a strategic move for foreign investors and entrepreneurs seeking access to Southeast Asia’s dynamic economy. Whether you’re planning a small startup or a large-scale operation, understanding the company registration process and its associated requirements is essential for a smooth and legally compliant entry into the Thai market.
At The Thailand Lawyer Service, based in Bangkok, we specialize in providing complete legal solutions for foreign investors, business owners, and corporate entities who seek to establish their business legally and efficiently in Thailand. One of the most commonly asked questions we encounter is about the cost of company registration in Thailand. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the core aspects of company registration, what expenses to expect (without listing exact costs), and how our expert team can support you every step of the way.
Why Register a Company in Thailand?
Thailand’s strategic location, modern infrastructure, free trade agreements, growing digital economy, and skilled workforce make it an attractive destination for foreign business owners. Registering a company legally not only protects your business operations but also ensures long-term sustainability and credibility with Thai authorities, partners, and customers.
Types of Business Entities Foreigners Can Register in Thailand
Before discussing costs, it’s important to understand the different types of business structures that impact your setup process. These include:
Thai Limited Company: The most common structure for foreign businesses. Requires at least three shareholders.
BOI-Promoted Company: Approved by the Board of Investment, offering benefits like tax exemptions and 100% foreign ownership in approved industries.
Foreign Business License Company: For businesses operating under restricted categories in the Foreign Business Act.
Representative Office: Non-revenue-generating and mainly for liaison or market research purposes.
Branch Office: For foreign companies wanting to operate business activities directly in Thailand.
Each structure has its own set of legal obligations, approval procedures, and compliance costs, which our firm can explain in detail based on your specific goals.
Essential Steps in Thailand Company Registration
Understanding the registration process helps prepare for the associated expenses and timelines. Below are the key stages involved in setting up a company in Thailand:
1. Business Name Reservation
The first step is selecting and reserving your company name with the Department of Business Development (DBD). The name must comply with Thai language rules and cannot duplicate an existing entity.
2. Memorandum of Association (MOA)
This document outlines the company’s objectives, location, capital structure, and shareholding details. It must be filed with the DBD before registration.
3. Convene a Statutory Meeting
Once the MOA is filed, a statutory meeting must be held to adopt company regulations, appoint directors, and approve the share structure.
4. Company Registration
Within three months of the statutory meeting, the company must be officially registered with the DBD. This includes submitting the list of shareholders, company objectives, and other corporate documents.
5. Tax Registration and VAT
If your company meets the required revenue thresholds, VAT registration and a tax ID are mandatory with the Revenue Department.
6. Social Security Registration
Employers must register employees with Thailand’s Social Security Office within 30 days of hiring.
7. Work Permit and Visa Assistance
For foreign directors or staff, securing the correct work visa and work permit is a legal necessity. Our firm assists in applying for the necessary documentation through Thailand’s Ministry of Labour and Immigration Bureau.
Factors That Influence Thailand Company Registration Cost
While we do not list specific costs, several important variables determine the overall expenses of setting up a business in Thailand. Understanding these helps businesses budget accordingly:
– Company Type and Structure
A limited company, BOI-promoted company, or branch office will have different legal and procedural requirements that affect cost.
– Shareholding Composition
Foreign shareholding impacts whether your company qualifies as a Thai majority or foreign-owned business. Thai majority businesses face fewer restrictions but may require nominee shareholders, which is a sensitive legal issue best handled by professionals.
– Licensing Requirements
Specific industries such as construction, hospitality, real estate, education, or financial services may require additional business licenses or regulatory approvals.
– Office Registration and Lease Agreement
Proof of a registered physical address is necessary for company registration. Leasing commercial premises may require legal review of contracts and landlord verification.
– Visa and Work Permit Processing
Costs associated with non-immigrant visa applications, work permits, and renewals for foreign directors or staff will also add to your business setup expenses.
– Accounting and Legal Compliance
Thai law requires companies to maintain accurate bookkeeping, submit annual audits, and follow monthly tax filings. This compliance contributes to ongoing operational expenses post-registration.
Common Legal Challenges and How We Help
Navigating Thai bureaucracy and legal procedures can be complex for non-Thai speakers or first-time business owners. Common issues include:
Incomplete or incorrectly filed registration documents
Rejected business name reservation
Delays in obtaining VAT registration or licenses
Difficulty securing foreign business licenses
Visa and work permit complications
The Thailand Lawyer Service offers end-to-end legal support, ensuring all aspects of your company formation comply with current Thai laws and regulations. Our legal advisors assist with:
Business structure planning
Shareholder agreements
MOA and Articles of Association drafting
Liaising with Thai government offices
Preparing and filing corporate and immigration paperwork
Legal translation and interpretation
Post-Registration Legal Support
Company formation is just the beginning. After your business is registered, our services continue with ongoing legal assistance, including:
Monthly accounting and payroll services
Tax filings and annual financial reporting
Compliance with employment laws
Company secretary and shareholder meetings
Legal representation for changes or expansions
Our firm ensures your company stays compliant and updated with Thai regulations, giving you peace of mind and allowing you to focus on growing your business.
Why Choose The Thailand Lawyer Service?
Located in Bangkok, our team has years of experience assisting international clients with business registration, legal consultation, visa and immigration processing, and corporate compliance. We provide tailored solutions, practical legal advice, and complete transparency throughout the process. Whether you’re opening a new company, expanding your existing business, or restructuring your corporate entity, we’re here to make it happen legally, smoothly, and efficiently.
Get Expert Help for Your Thailand Company Setup
Understanding the cost of company registration in Thailand involves more than just government fees. It requires strategic legal planning, accurate documentation, and an in-depth knowledge of Thai commercial law. By partnering with The Thailand Lawyer Service, you’ll get expert legal guidance that minimizes delays, avoids penalties, and ensures your business is legally sound from the ground up.
Contact our Bangkok office today to schedule a consultation. Our legal experts are ready to guide you step-by-step through the company registration process in Thailand.