Thailand is an attractive destination for foreign businesses and entrepreneurs, but navigating the legal landscape requires expert guidance. From company formation to ongoing compliance, a Thai business lawyer ensures that your business operates legally, efficiently, and in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
Our Business Law Services
We provide a full range of corporate and business law services:
- Company formation and registration — Thai and foreign-owned companies
- Business structuring and entity selection
- Shareholder agreements and joint venture agreements
- Commercial contracts — drafting, review, and negotiation
- Board of Investment (BOI) applications and incentives
- Work permits and foreign employee compliance
- Employment law — labour contracts, dismissals, and disputes
- Mergers, acquisitions, and corporate restructuring
- Regulatory compliance and licensing
- Corporate dispute resolution and litigation
Company Formation in Thailand
Setting up a company in Thailand involves several key decisions and procedures:
- 01Entity TypeChoosing the right structure — limited company, partnership, branch office, or representative office.
- 02Foreign Ownership RulesUnderstanding the Foreign Business Act restrictions and which business activities are restricted or prohibited for foreigners.
- 03RegistrationFiling the company registration with the Ministry of Commerce, including name reservation, memorandum, and articles.
- 04Tax RegistrationRegistering for corporate income tax, VAT, and other applicable taxes.
- 05Work PermitsSecuring work permits for foreign employees and directors.
Foreign Business Restrictions
The Foreign Business Act (FBA) restricts foreign participation in certain business activities. Key considerations include:
- List 1 — businesses strictly prohibited to foreigners (e.g., media, land ownership)
- List 2 — businesses requiring majority Thai ownership (with limited exceptions)
- List 3 — businesses requiring a Foreign Business Licence or BOI approval
- US-Amity Treaty — US citizens may have additional rights under the Treaty of Amity
- BOI promotion — can grant exemptions from FBA restrictions for promoted businesses
Commercial Contracts
Well-drafted contracts are essential to protecting your business interests. We draft and review:
- Sales and supply agreements
- Distribution and agency agreements
- Service contracts and consultancy agreements
- Lease agreements for commercial property
- Employment contracts and contractor agreements
- Non-disclosure and confidentiality agreements
- Shareholder and joint venture agreements
BOI Applications
The Board of Investment (BOI) offers tax incentives and other benefits to promote foreign investment. We assist with:
- Assessing eligibility for BOI promotion
- Preparing and filing the BOI application
- Negotiating with BOI officials
- Complying with BOI conditions after approval
- Securing related permits and licences
How We Help
At Nathee Legal Firm, we serve as your legal partner for business in Thailand:
- 01SetupWe handle company formation, registration, and all initial legal requirements.
- 02ComplianceWe ensure your business stays compliant with Thai laws and regulations.
- 03ContractsWe draft, review, and negotiate all your commercial contracts.
- 04Ongoing CounselWe provide ongoing legal advice and representation as your business grows.