Invest in Thailand
Thailand is one of the main investment destinations in Southeast Asia, with a large domestic market, an export-oriented industry and an active investment promotion policy run by the Board of Investment (BOI). Before you invest in Thailand, the key question is legal: which structure allows you to hold your business, and with what share of foreign ownership. Our team explains the options and sets up the structure that fits your project.
Foreign ownership rules
The Foreign Business Act B.E. 2542 (1999) treats a company as foreign when foreigners hold half or more of its capital. Such companies may carry out the activities in the Act's lists only under conditions: some are closed to foreigners, others require a Foreign Business License or other permissions. Activities outside the lists are open to foreign-owned companies, subject to minimum capital rules. In practice, investors use one of the routes below.
Ways to invest in Thailand
- Thai limited company with a majority Thai shareholding, for activities restricted to foreigners. See the types of companies in Thailand.
- BOI-promoted company: for activities on the BOI list, foreign investors may hold up to 100% of the shares (except List One activities, where Thai nationals must hold at least 51%) and receive tax and non-tax incentives. See BOI company in Thailand.
- Foreign Business License: a licence that allows a foreign-owned company to carry out certain restricted activities. See Foreign Business License in Thailand.
- Branch or representative office of a foreign company. See branch office and representative office.
- Holding or special purpose company for group structures. See holding company and SPV company.
- Ready-made company to start faster. See shelf company in Thailand.
Incentives for investors
BOI promotion can bring corporate income tax exemption of 3 to 13 years depending on the activity group, the right to own land, simpler procedures for foreign experts and permission to remit money abroad in foreign currency. The general minimum investment for a promoted project is 1 million baht, excluding land and working capital.
Residence for investors
Investors who hold at least USD 1 million in assets and invest at least USD 500,000 in Thailand may qualify for the 10-year Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa as Wealthy Global Citizens. Directors and employees who will work in the company usually need a business visa and a work permit.
After the investment
Once the company is set up, we can assist with opening a bank account, accounting and tax compliance, payroll and a virtual office.
Frequently asked questions
Can foreigners own 100% of a company in Thailand?
Yes in some cases: for activities not restricted by the Foreign Business Act, for BOI-promoted activities in List Two and List Three, or with a Foreign Business License. For restricted activities without these routes, foreign ownership must stay below half of the capital.
What is the best way to invest in Thailand?
It depends on the activity, the planned investment and whether you need incentives. We compare the routes above for your project before any filing.
Contact our company formation specialists in Thailand for an assessment of your investment.