Foreign Business License

Foreign Business License

Foreign-owned businesses looking to operate in Thailand often face various legal restrictions to what business activities they can undertake per the Foreign Business Act. Obtaining a Foreign Business License is crucial to ensure compliance and unlock business opportunities. 

The Foreign Business License is awarded to foreign companies and investors who wish to participate in sectors or industries typically restricted to Thai citizens under the Foreign Business Act. The need for an FBL arises from the desire of foreign companies to have majority ownership and avoid the requirement of having a Thai partner.

 
Business Licenses
Foreign Business License at a glance
100% Foreign Ownership

100% foriegn owned companies can obtain a Foreign Business Licence and engage in business activities typically restricted to Thai companies under the Foreign Business Act.

The Foreign Business Act

Foreign businesses operating in Thailand must obtain a Foreign Business License (FBL) if undertaking one of the 50 restricted business activities to comply with the Foreign Business Act (FBA).

Considerations for approval

Various factors are considered when applying, such as national security, economic impact, business size, and local employment opportunities. Approval is more likely if the business offers substantial benefits, aligns with Thai interests, and avoids direct competition with local businesses.

Why work with VB and Partners?

Embarking on a business venture, especially in a foreign land, can appear overwhelming. At VB & Partners, we understand this challenge and our experts are ready to assist with your needs. Our comprehensive range of services covers every step, from initial business feasibility assessments to complete incorporation and the start of your business operations.

Navigating local laws and regulations is a paramount concern for foreign enterprises. Our tailored solutions alleviate this complexity, ensuring unwavering adherence to legal mandates. Backed by a team well-versed in the intricacies of the Thai market and regulations, ensuring the smooth operation of your business.

VB & Partners takes pride in its assembly of seasoned experts. Ranging from Incorporation, Accounting & Secretary Services to Immigration and Real Estate, VB & Partners stands as your premier destination for all your legal and accounting needs.

What does this package include

  • Initial Consultation: Our experts will asses your companies business activities and identify whether a Foreign Business Licence will be granted.
  • Document Preperation: Our experts will work closely with you to obtain and collate all the required documents and complete the application forms ready for submission.
  • Submitting the Application: Our experts will submit the application to the Foreign Licensing Department of the Ministry of Commerce. We will also liaise with the officers through the consideration and review process to ensure complete awareness of the status of the application.
  • Collection of the Foreign Business Licence: Once the Foreign Business Licence has been approved and issued, our experts will collect the documents on your behalf.
  • Post-approval procedure: Our experts will keep you up-to-date with any compliance requirements requested by the Ministry of Commerce to ensure a smooth working relationship.
  • Answering questions concerning the Foreign Business Licence.
In addition to the aforementioned requirements, please note that additional documentation may be necessary during the application process.
Icone 03
Foreign Business License
From
180,000THB
Required for restricted business activities
Companies with an FBL can be 100% foreign owned
5 Business Days
Get Started

Excluding official fees and transportation fees

Price: + 7% VAT

What you must know before applying

Timeline
Upon submission of the application, there is a legal obligation to either approve it or reject the application within 60 days as per the Act. After approval, the Foreign Business License is typically issued within 15 days.
Exemptions
Retail or wholesale businesses that have a registered company capital of at least 100,000,000 THB, are exempt from the requirement to have a Foreign Business Licence.
Minimum Capital Requirements
The minimum capital required at the commencement of business activities cannot be less than 2 Million THB.
Conditions for Approval
The Minister can establish conditions for foreign licensees to meet to gain approval. Examples include capital-to-loan ratios, the presence of foreign directors in Thailand, or the duration of maintaining minimum capital in the country.
Eligibilty
Applicants must have a: No prior court convictions or fines under the Foreign Business Act and no license revocations under the Foreign Business Act or related regulations in the past five years.
Compliance and Reporting
After obtaining the Foreign Business License, the licensee must comply with the conditions outlined in the license and fulfil any ongoing reporting requirements mandated by the Foreign Licensing Department.

Book a Call with our expert

Up to an hour consultation on the process of setting up a company in Thailand.

We will provide you with information on key areas such as; company structure, taxes, accounting and other general aspects of opening a company in Thailand. We will also answer any other legal questions you may have to provide you with a clear overview.

If some extra research is necessary to answer your questions, our experts will check and revert to you with complementary elements by email.

This consultation is provided by legal experts in English or in French.

VB & Partners, BOI Visa, Open a company in thailand, work permit in thailand, PEO service, representative ofice

Frequently Asked Question

What is the process for changing a company address?
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What is the process for changing a company address?
Find all the tools you’ll need to create advanced websites in one place. Stop waisting time searching for solutions.
What is the process for changing a company address?
Find all the tools you’ll need to create advanced websites in one place. Stop waisting time searching for solutions.
What is the process for changing a company address?
Find all the tools you’ll need to create advanced websites in one place. Stop waisting time searching for solutions.
What is the process for changing a company address?
Find all the tools you’ll need to create advanced websites in one place. Stop waisting time searching for solutions.
What is the process for changing a company address?
Find all the tools you’ll need to create advanced websites in one place. Stop waisting time searching for solutions.
What is the process for changing a company address?
Find all the tools you’ll need to create advanced websites in one place. Stop waisting time searching for solutions.
What is the process for changing a company address?
Find all the tools you’ll need to create advanced websites in one place. Stop waisting time searching for solutions.
What is the process for changing a company address?
Find all the tools you’ll need to create advanced websites in one place. Stop waisting time searching for solutions.