Other Licensing for Business Operations in Thailand

Businesses operating in Thailand often require more than company registration to function lawfully. Depending on the industry, ownership structure, and type of activities carried out, additional licences or permits may be mandatory before operations can begin. These regulatory requirements are issued under various laws, ranging from investment regulations and foreign-business restrictions to industry-specific legislation.

BASE Law Firm assists both domestic and foreign businesses in identifying the exact approvals they need, preparing compliant applications, and coordinating with the relevant authorities to secure formal authorization.

Our service include:

Licensing needs assessment
Eligibility & ownership review
Application document preparation
Government liaison & submissions
Compliance monitoring support
Ongoing renewal assistance

When Special Licensing Is Required

Thai law imposes licensing obligations on a broad range of activities, especially sectors that have economic, health, safety, or national-interest implications. Licences may be required for businesses that:

Provide financial or lending services
Operate foreign-owned commercial activities
Manufacture controlled goods
Manage regulated facilities or trade in high-risk products
Conduct recruitment, educational, hospitality, or other specialized services

Because some activities can only be carried out by Thai nationals, foreign companies must undergo a detailed review to determine eligibility, available exemptions, and potential restructuring options.

Common Business Activities That Require Approval

While the specific licence depends on the corporate structure and business plan, companies frequently seek authorisation for operations such as:

Financial and lending activities
Importation or exportation of restricted goods
Manufacturing of controlled products
Warehouse or storage facility licensing
Restaurant, hotel, or hospitality services
Recruitment and employment agency operations
Education providers and training centres
Health-related or pharmaceutical business activities
Trading or distribution of certain equipment and industrial goods

Each of these categories is governed by a separate regulatory framework, often requiring technical documentation, specific qualifications, or on-site inspections before approval is granted.

Foreign Ownership Considerations

Foreign-owned entities must consider the Foreign Business Act, ministerial regulations, and industry-specific restrictions when applying for licences. Some activities may require:

A Foreign Business Licence
A Foreign Business Certificate (for treaty-protected entities)
Approval under an investment promotion scheme
A restructuring of shareholding to meet legal thresholds

BASE Law Firm assists clients in analysing the eligibility of foreign-owned entities and preparing tailored strategies to ensure compliance.

How BASE Law Firm Supports Your Licensing Requirements

Our services cover the full life cycle of business licensing in Thailand:

1. Regulatory Assessment

We analyse your business model, ownership structure, and operational plan to determine every licence, permit, or approval required before your company can legally operate.

2. Application Preparation

We prepare all necessary documents, including corporate records, technical statements, financial documentation, and declarations required by the supervising authority.

3. Government Coordination

Our team submits applications, manages follow-up communication, assists with inspections, and ensures that all procedural requirements are met without delay.

4. Compliance and Post-Issuance Obligations

Many licences require ongoing reporting, renewals, and continued compliance with industry standards. BASE Law Firm provides ongoing guidance to ensure your operations remain fully compliant throughout the business cycle.

Summary

Launching or expanding a business in Thailand often involves more than establishing a company. Many sectors require specialised licensing, and foreign ownership adds an additional layer of regulatory review. BASE Law Firm delivers strategic, clear, and practical assistance, helping clients secure the approvals necessary to operate lawfully and efficiently.

For guidance tailored to your business activity or industry, contact BASE Law Firm to discuss the licensing and compliance requirements relevant to your operations in Thailand.