If you are a Thai dual citizen, you enjoy full rights to operate a business in Thailand without any restrictions. You may own, manage, and run companies across all sectors, just as any other Thai national would.
Whether you’re launching a new venture or expanding an existing one, our team is here to assist you in building a business that complies with local regulations and thrives in the Thai market. Contact us for guidance on legal structures, registration processes, and business development tailored to your goals.
Foreign nationals can also operate businesses in Thailand, but there are important legal stipulations and restrictions to be aware of. Understanding these rules will help ensure compliance and long-term success.
In most sectors, foreign individuals or entities are generally limited to owning up to 49% of a Thai company. This means a Thai national or entity must hold the majority (51%) of shares.
Under the US-Thailand Treaty of Amity, American citizens are permitted to own 100% of a business in many sectors, provided certain legal criteria are met. This treaty offers unique advantages for American entrepreneurs, but does not apply to citizens of other countries.
The Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) promotes certain industries deemed beneficial to the Thai economy, such as technology, manufacturing, and innovation. BOI-promoted business may:
Be eligible for 100% foreign ownership
Receive corporate tax exemptions
Benefit from import duty exemptions
Obtain work permits and visa privileges
BOI application procedures can be complex, but we can help guide you through the process and assess your eligibility.
List 1 - Absolutely Prohibited to Foreigners
These are activities considered critical to national interests and are entirely closed to foreign ownership:
Newspaper, radio and television broadcasting
Farming, livestock and forestry operations
Extraction and processing of Thai medicinal herbs
Trading and auctioning of Thai antiques or historical artefacts
Land trading and brokerage
List 2 - Restricted Activites Requiring Cabinet Approval
Foreign involvement is permitted only with explicit Cabinet approval, typically due to concerns related to security, culture, or the enviroment:
Manufacturing, selling, repairing firearms, ammunition, or explosives
Domestic transport services by land, sea, or air
Industries impacting national heritage, security, or natural resources
List 3 - Restricted Activites Requiring a Foreign Business Licence (FBL)
Foreigners may engage in these sectores, but must first obtain a Foreign Business Licence (FBL) from the Ministry of Commerce:
Accounting, legal, and architectural services
Construction and engineering
Wholesale, retail, and franchise businesses
Hotel and resturant operations
Advertising, event management, and tourism services
The FBL is a special permit required for foreigners who wish to operate in sectors listed under List 3 of the FBA. The application process involves:
Submission of detail business plans
Proof of expertise or necessity for foreign ownership
Approval from the Foreign Business Committee
FBL applications can be stringent and time-consuming, but our experts can help you prepare the required documention and improve your chances of success.
Whether you're a Thai dual citizen or a foreign entrepreneur, we offer end-to-end support to help you :
Choose the right business structure
Navigate ownership laws and sector restrictions
Apply for BOI or FBL approvals
Connect with legal and accounting professionals in Thailand
Contact Us to book a consultation and take the first step towards launching your business in Thailand.