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Comparing company structures for foreigners in Thailand

The structure chosen on day one determines work permits, shareholding limits, and reporting duties for the life of the business.

Thai limited company with majority Thai shareholding

General business activities with no special privileges needed

Certifying authority
Department of Business Development and the Revenue Department
Indicative timeline
Registration is fast; banking and follow-on licences vary
Pitfalls / common rejections
A shareholding structure that does not reflect reality carries serious legal exposure

BOI investment promotion

The activity is on the promoted list and majority foreign ownership is needed

Certifying authority
Board of Investment (BOI)
Indicative timeline
Variable — weeks to months depending on the activity
Pitfalls / common rejections
Post-approval conditions must be maintained; missed reporting can cost the privileges

Foreign Business Licence

The activity sits on a restricted list and BOI does not apply

Certifying authority
Department of Business Development, Ministry of Commerce
Indicative timeline
Highly variable — the longest of the three routes
Pitfalls / common rejections
Unclear source-of-funds evidence and business plans are the main cause of delay

Note: Timelines above are practical estimates from live casework and can change with each authority's policy; confirm with the receiving authority before booking travel. If you would rather not test routes by trial and error, our advisers can assess which route fits your case.

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