Company Registration in Thailand – Professional Legal Services in Bangkok

Starting a business in Thailand can be both exciting and rewarding. Whether you are a foreign investor looking to expand into Southeast Asia or a local entrepreneur aiming to formalize your operations, understanding the legal requirements for company registration in Thailand is essential. At The Thailand Lawyer Service, based in Bangkok, we provide reliable, up-to-date legal assistance tailored to meet all your company formation needs.

Our team of legal professionals has extensive experience with Thai corporate law, foreign business operations, and government procedures. We simplify the complex registration process and ensure that your company is established efficiently, legally, and with complete compliance to Thai regulations.

Why Register a Company in Thailand?

Thailand is one of the most attractive destinations for business in Asia. Its strategic location, modern infrastructure, growing economy, and investor-friendly government policies have made it a regional hub for trade, manufacturing, and services. The Thai government encourages both local and foreign investment by offering several business structures and incentives for qualified industries.

Registering a company in Thailand allows entrepreneurs to:

  • Legally operate a business with full rights and protection

  • Open corporate bank accounts

  • Employ staff legally under Thai labor laws

  • Access trade agreements and investment privileges

  • Protect the business name and intellectual property

But to benefit from these advantages, you need to navigate the correct legal path and comply with Thai business laws. That’s where our expertise becomes essential.

Types of Business Entities in Thailand

When registering a company in Thailand, it is crucial to choose the right legal structure that suits your goals and business model. The most common types include:

1. Thai Limited Company

A Thai Limited Company is the most popular form of business registration. It requires at least three shareholders and one director. Foreigners can hold up to 49% of the shares unless promoted under special regulations.

2. Foreign Business License (FBL) Company

This type allows foreign investors to hold a majority of shares, but requires approval under the Foreign Business Act. Obtaining a Foreign Business License is complex and typically reserved for sectors where foreign participation is permitted.

3. Board of Investment (BOI) Promoted Company

The BOI offers tax exemptions and other privileges to foreign companies operating in priority sectors. Registration under BOI requires a thorough application process but provides full foreign ownership and benefits.

4. Representative Office

This is suitable for foreign companies that do not intend to earn income in Thailand but wish to explore the market, conduct research, or support their head office.

5. Branch Office

A branch office can conduct business and generate income but is treated as an extension of a foreign company and must comply with Thai tax laws.

6. Partnerships

Registered Ordinary Partnerships and Limited Partnerships are alternatives for small or family-run businesses, though they offer less legal protection and are less popular for foreign investment.

Step-by-Step Process of Company Registration in Thailand

At The Thailand Lawyer Service, we guide you through every stage of the company registration process, ensuring full compliance and transparency. Here’s how the process typically works:

1. Business Name Reservation

The first step is to choose and reserve a unique company name through the Department of Business Development (DBD). The name must comply with Thai naming regulations and must not resemble any existing registered company.

2. Filing of Memorandum of Association (MOA)

The MOA outlines the company’s objectives, shareholders, and registered capital. It must be filed with the DBD and signed by all shareholders.

3. Convene Statutory Meeting

Once the MOA is approved, a statutory meeting is held to adopt the articles of association, appoint directors, and approve the capital.

4. Company Registration

After the statutory meeting, the company must be officially registered with the DBD. Required documents include identification of shareholders and directors, address verification, and minutes of the meeting.

5. Tax Registration

Your company must be registered with the Revenue Department to obtain a tax ID. If your turnover is above a certain threshold, you must also register for VAT.

6. Social Security Registration

If you employ staff, your company must register with the Social Security Office and make monthly contributions on behalf of your employees.

7. Work Permits and Visas (for Foreign Directors)

Foreign directors or staff will require the proper visas and work permits. Our team assists in ensuring all immigration and labor laws are followed.

Documents Required for Company Registration

The documentation required may vary depending on the business type and ownership structure. Generally, the following are needed:

  • Copies of shareholder and director passports or IDs

  • Proof of registered office address (e.g., lease agreement)

  • Memorandum of Association

  • Articles of Association

  • List of shareholders

  • Company objectives

  • Minutes of statutory meeting

  • Power of attorney (if required)

We ensure that all paperwork is prepared accurately, translated (if needed), and submitted on time.

Foreign Ownership and Business Restrictions

Foreign ownership is limited in certain sectors under the Foreign Business Act. However, several pathways exist to enable full or majority foreign ownership, including:

  • BOI Promotion

  • Treaty of Amity (for U.S. citizens)

  • Joint ventures with Thai partners

  • Use of a Foreign Business License

Our legal team will advise you on the best structure and licensing route based on your business activities and long-term goals.

Benefits of Working with The Thailand Lawyer Service

Choosing the right law firm for your company registration can mean the difference between a smooth launch and months of delays. Our law firm in Bangkok offers:

  • In-depth knowledge of Thai corporate and foreign investment law

  • Personalized legal advice based on your business type

  • Efficient document preparation and submission

  • Direct communication with government departments

  • Complete transparency throughout the process

  • Assistance with follow-up services like visas, tax filing, and licenses

We focus on legal accuracy and full compliance, so your company starts on a solid foundation.

Post-Registration Legal Support

After your company is officially registered, our work doesn’t stop. We offer continuous legal support to keep your business running smoothly:

  • Amendments and updates (e.g., change of directors or shareholders)

  • Contract drafting for clients, suppliers, and employees

  • Corporate secretarial services

  • License applications (e.g., FBL, BOI, FDA, import/export)

  • Visa and work permit assistance for foreign staff

  • Ongoing compliance with Thai tax and labor laws

Our clients trust us not only for company formation but also as long-term legal advisors in Thailand.

Start Your Company in Thailand Today

If you are ready to launch your business in Thailand, let The Thailand Lawyer Service be your legal partner. Based in the heart of Bangkok, we offer expert, end-to-end legal support for company registration and corporate compliance. Our team is ready to assist local entrepreneurs and foreign investors with practical, efficient, and compliant solutions.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and begin the registration process. From company formation to legal compliance, we are here to help your business succeed in Thailand.

The Thailand Lawyer Service
Your Trusted Legal Partner for Company Registration in Thailand.