Thai Company Formation
Thai Company Formation
Set Up Your Company in Thailand—Structured, Compliant, and Ready to Operate
Choosing the correct structure is one of the most important steps when forming a company in Thailand. Our team helps foreign entrepreneurs, expatriates, and international investors establish businesses in Thailand with cross-border tax expertise and end-to-end setup support.
Types of Companies in Thailand
Choosing the correct structure is one of the most important steps when forming a company in Thailand.
Thai Limited Company
The most common structure for foreign entrepreneurs. Limited liability, structured management via directors and shareholders, recognized by banks and government. Typically requires 3 shareholders, 1 director, and registered capital (often 2M THB for work permit eligibility). Foreign ownership restrictions may apply.
BOI Company (Board of Investment)
Certain industries may qualify for BOI promotion: up to 100% foreign ownership, corporate tax incentives, work permit and visa advantages, and import duty exemptions. BOI eligibility depends on the nature of the business.
Representative or Branch Office
For foreign companies wanting a Thai presence without direct revenue-generating activities. Commonly used for market research, sourcing, or liaison operations.
Our Thai Company Formation Services
At Expat Tax Firm, we provide a full-service solution for setting up a company in Thailand.
Business Structure Consultation
We analyze your goals and determine the most suitable legal structure.
Company Registration
We handle the complete registration process with the Department of Business Development (DBD).
Shareholder and Director Setup
Assistance with structuring shareholders and appointing directors.
Registered Address
Guidance on registered office requirements.
Corporate Documentation
Preparation of Articles of Association, shareholder agreements, and corporate registration documents.
Bank Account Assistance
We assist with opening Thai corporate bank accounts when required.
Tax Registration
Registration for Thai Tax Identification Number (TIN), VAT if applicable, and Social Security for employees.
Work Permits and Visas
We coordinate with trusted legal and immigration partners for business visas, work permits, extensions, and corporate compliance for foreign employees.
Ongoing Compliance & Accounting
Monthly accounting, corporate tax filings, VAT filings, social security reporting, payroll, and annual financial statements.
Cost to Start a Company in Thailand
The cost of Thai company formation depends on business structure, registered capital, licensing requirements, and whether professional services are used. A standard Thai Limited Company setup typically includes:
Government Registration Fees
Paid to the DBD based on registered capital: name reservation, MOA filing, company registration fees, and corporate documentation filings.
Professional Formation Services
Corporate structuring consultation, preparation of registration documents, government filing coordination, tax registration, and corporate compliance guidance.
Additional Costs May Include
Registered office address, corporate bank account setup, VAT registration, accounting and bookkeeping, and work permit and visa assistance.
Can Foreigners Own a Company in Thailand?
The answer depends on the type of business activity and the ownership structure.
Standard Thai Limited Company Structure
Thai law often requires Thai nationals to hold at least 51% of a company where activity is restricted under the Foreign Business Act (FBA). Foreign investors may hold up to 49% in many standard structures.
BOI Promotion
The Thai Board of Investment promotes specific industries and may allow 100% foreign ownership, corporate tax incentives, import duty exemptions, and easier work permit approvals.
Treaty of Amity (U.S. Citizens)
Under the U.S.–Thailand Treaty of Amity, American citizens and companies may be eligible for majority or full ownership of Thai businesses, depending on the business activity.
Choosing the Right Ownership Structure
Important factors include business activity, work permit eligibility, corporate tax considerations, and long-term investment plans. Our firm helps you determine the most appropriate and legally compliant structure.
Step-by-Step Guide to Registering a Company in Thailand
The Thai company registration process involves several legal and administrative steps. Below is a simplified overview of how company formation in Thailand works.
01
Reserve the Company Name
Submit a name reservation with the DBD. The name must be unique, non-conflicting, and follow Thai naming regulations. Approval is typically valid for 30 days.
02
File the Memorandum of Association
The MOA outlines company name, registered office, business objectives, registered capital, and shareholder information—formally declaring the intent to establish the company.
03
Hold the Statutory Meeting
Founders approve the Articles of Association, appointment of directors, share allocation, and registered capital structure.
04
Register the Company with the Government
The company is officially registered with the DBD and receives its company registration certificate.
05
Register for Taxes
Register with the Thai Revenue Department for a Corporate Tax Identification Number (TIN) and VAT if required.
06
Open a Corporate Bank Account
Banks typically request company registration documents, director identification, and corporate resolutions.
07
Accounting and Compliance Setup
Maintain monthly accounting records, corporate tax filings, VAT filings, and annual financial statements. Our firm assists with ongoing accounting and tax compliance.
Why Work With Expat Tax Firm?
Our firm specializes in helping foreign entrepreneurs, expatriates, and international investors establish businesses in Thailand. Clients choose us because we offer:
Cross-Border Tax Expertise
Deep knowledge of Thai and international tax systems.
Experience with Expats
Working with expats and foreign investors every day.
End-to-End Setup Support
From consultation to compliance—one team, one process.
Legally Compliant & Tax Efficient
We help ensure your Thai company structure is both legally compliant and tax efficient.
Start Your Thai Company with Professional Guidance
Setting up a company in Thailand as a foreigner requires careful planning to ensure compliance with local regulations and tax laws. At Expat Tax Firm, we provide complete support for Thai company formation, corporate tax registration, accounting and compliance, and work permit and visa coordination.
If you are considering starting a business in Thailand, our team can guide you through every step of the process. Contact us today to begin your Thai company formation consultation.
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