TL;DR
A Foreign Business License (FBL) allows a majority foreign-owned company to carry out certain activities restricted under Thailand’s Foreign Business Act. However, an FBL is not always required, as BOI promotion, a Foreign Business Certificate or the Treaty of Amity may provide an alternative route to 100% foreign ownership.
Introduction
Thailand’s Foreign Business Act restricts foreign-owned companies from carrying out a wide range of business activities. In practice, a large part of economic activity in Thailand, and in particular almost all services, is restricted for foreigners and for companies in which foreigners hold 50% or more of the shares. Such a company can only carry out a restricted activity if it obtains a Foreign Business License (FBL), BOI promotion with a Foreign Business Certificate (FBC) or, for qualifying US-owned companies under the US-Thailand Treaty of Amity. However, these restrictions do not necessarily prevent a foreign investor from owning and operating a business in Thailand.
Depending on the proposed activity and ownership structure, a Foreign Business License (FBL) in Thailand may allow a majority foreign-owned company to carry out an activity that would otherwise be restricted under the Foreign Business Act.
An FBL is not the only option available. Depending on the business, BOI promotion, a Foreign Business Certificate (FBC) or, for qualifying US-owned companies, the Treaty of Amity may provide an alternative route to 100% foreign ownership.
Where the activity is eligible for BOI promotion, we generally recommend the BOI route first. In addition to 100% foreign ownership, BOI promotion makes it much easier to hire foreign staff (work permits and visas), the capital required can be lower depending on the activity, and some activities also benefit from tax incentives. BOI promotion is not available for every activity, however. Where the activity is not eligible, the FBL is in most cases the only alternative, the Treaty of Amity being limited to US-owned companies.
Choosing the right option depends on several factors, including the proposed business activities, ownership structure and whether the company qualifies for any available exemptions or investment promotion.
Key Points
- Most majority foreign-owned service businesses require an FBL under the Foreign Business Act, unless they obtain BOI promotion or qualify under the Treaty of Amity.
- BOI promotion, the Treaty of Amity and other exemptions may provide alternative routes to 100% foreign ownership.
- Where the activity is eligible, BOI promotion is generally the preferred route. Where it is not, the FBL is usually the only alternative.
- The FBL application process typically takes around four to six months, and approval is discretionary.
- Restricted foreign businesses are generally subject to minimum capital requirements, commonly THB 3 million per restricted activity.
- Using Thai nominee shareholders to avoid foreign ownership restrictions is illegal and actively enforced against.
- In our recent experience, as enforcement against nominee structures has tightened, a well-prepared FBL application has a better chance of success than in the past.
What Is a Foreign Business License in Thailand?
A Foreign Business License (FBL) in Thailand allows a foreign-owned company to carry out certain business activities that are restricted under the Foreign Business Act B.E. 2542 (1999).
Under the Foreign Business Act, a company incorporated in Thailand is generally considered a foreign business when foreign individuals or entities hold 50% or more of its share capital. This test also looks through corporate shareholders: a Thai company whose shareholder is itself a majority foreign-owned company is also treated as foreign under Section 4 of the Foreign Business Act.
The Act divides restricted activities into three lists.
List 1 covers activities that foreigners are prohibited from undertaking for specific reasons. These activities are generally not available through the normal FBL application process.
List 2 covers activities relating to national security or safety, arts and culture, traditions, natural resources and certain other protected areas. Foreign participation is possible in some circumstances but requires permission from the Minister of Commerce with Cabinet approval and is subject to specific ownership requirements. In particular, Thai shareholders must generally hold at least 40% of the capital (which the Cabinet may reduce to 25%), and at least two fifths of the directors must be Thai.
List 3 covers activities where Thai businesses are considered not yet ready to compete with foreign businesses. This is where many foreign investors encounter the FBL requirement, particularly companies providing services in Thailand. List 3 ends with a catch-all category of “other service businesses”, which is why most service activities carried out by a majority foreign-owned company are restricted.
It is also important to distinguish a Foreign Business License from a Foreign Business Certificate (FBC). An FBL is required when a foreign business needs permission to carry out a restricted activity. An FBC, on the other hand, is generally issued when the business already has the right to operate through another route, such as BOI promotion or the US-Thailand Treaty of Amity.
Some foreign investors may consider using Thai shareholders to keep foreign ownership below 50%. However, Thai shareholders cannot legally hold shares as nominees on behalf of foreign investors simply to avoid the restrictions under the Foreign Business Act. Nominee arrangements are illegal, and the DBD and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) continue to scrutinise company ownership structures where nominee shareholding is suspected.
Who Needs an FBL?
Whether a company requires a Foreign Business License in Thailand depends primarily on its proposed business activities, ownership structure and whether another exemption or BOI promotion is available.
For this reason, it is important to review the activities the company intends to carry out before deciding how the business should be structured.
Activities that require an FBL
Many foreign-owned businesses are affected by the activities restricted under List 3 of the Foreign Business Act, particularly companies providing services in Thailand.
For example, a foreign-owned consulting company providing services to clients in Thailand may fall within the broad category of “other service businesses”. Certain trading, brokerage, agency and other commercial activities may also be restricted, depending on the nature of the business and how it operates.
When considering whether an FBL is required, the DBD considers the activities the company will actually carry out rather than simply how its business objectives are worded. Each proposed activity should therefore be reviewed to determine whether it is restricted and whether an FBL or another route is required.
Exemptions that replace the FBL
Not every foreign-owned company carrying out a restricted activity will need to obtain an FBL. Companies that receive a BOI promotion, for example, may be able to obtain a Foreign Business Certificate (FBC) for their promoted activities. Depending on the project, BOI promotion may also provide additional benefits, including tax incentives, import duty exemptions, a capital requirement that can be lower depending on the activity and more flexible arrangements for employing foreign specialists.
Qualifying US-owned companies may be able to operate under the US-Thailand Treaty of Amity, while certain businesses operating through the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) may also have alternative options available.
Where one of these routes applies, obtaining an FBC may be more suitable than applying for an FBL. The available options should therefore be considered before deciding which application or company structure to pursue.
Capital requirements
The amount of capital required will depend on the company’s activities and how the business is structured.
As a general rule, foreign businesses carrying out activities restricted under the Foreign Business Act are subject to a minimum capital requirement of THB 3 million for each restricted business activity. Accordingly, if a company carries out two restricted activities, it would generally be required to have at least THB 6 million in capital. Other foreign businesses may be subject to a minimum capital requirement of THB 2 million.
Required documents
The documents required for an FBL application will vary depending on the company and the activities it intends to carry out. However, applicants will generally need to provide:
- Application forms and relevant corporate documents
- Details of the company’s directors and shareholders
- A clear description of the proposed business activities
- A business plan and three-year financial projections
- Evidence of the company’s capital and source of funding
- Details of the company’s employment plans
- Information on any technology, expertise or know-how that will be transferred to Thailand
Documents issued outside Thailand may also need to be translated, notarised or legalised before they can be submitted as part of the application.
How Do You Apply for a Foreign Business License in Thailand?
Obtaining a Foreign Business License in Thailand is not a simple registration process. A realistic timeline from submitting the application to receiving the Foreign Business Licence is often around four to six months, depending on the activity, preparation required and questions raised during the review.
Approval is also discretionary. A strong application needs to explain not only what the company intends to do, but also why allowing the foreign-owned business to undertake that activity would be beneficial to Thailand.
Step 1:Initial Consultation and Eligibility Assessment
The first step is determining whether an FBL is actually required.
Our experts review the proposed activities, shareholders, investment and operating model against the Foreign Business Act. We also consider whether another route, such as BOI promotion and an FBC, could be available.
Doing this before incorporation or restructuring can prevent a company from spending time and money pursuing an unsuitable structure.
Step 2: Prepare the Application and Business Plan
The application needs to explain the proposed business in detail.
This normally includes the company’s activities, investment, staffing, financial projections and the benefits the business will bring to Thailand. Depending on the project, these benefits could include employment, specialist expertise, technology or know-how transfer.
The figures and supporting information should be realistic and consistent. An application that does not clearly explain the commercial model is likely to attract further questions.
Step 3: File With the Ministry of Commerce
Once the documents are ready, the application is submitted to the Department of Business Development under the Ministry of Commerce.
The DBD reviews the documents before the application moves through the formal consideration process. Additional information or clarification may be requested where the authorities need further details about the activity, ownership, finances or expected benefits.
The official application fee is THB 2,000.
Step 4: Foreign Business Committee Review
For the typical List 3 application, the Foreign Business Committee considers whether permission should be granted before the Director-General makes the licensing decision.
The Foreign Business Act (Section 17) provides that a decision must be made within 60 days of receipt of a complete application. In practice, the overall FBL process can take longer once preparation, document review, requests for additional information and licence issuance are taken into account.
List 2 activities follow a different approval route involving the Minister of Commerce and Cabinet.
Step 5: Licence Issuance and Ongoing Compliance
If the application is approved, the company pays the applicable licence fee and receives its Foreign Business Licence.
The licence may include conditions governing how the approved activity is carried out. The company must continue operating within the scope of the permission and comply with applicable capital, reporting and other requirements.
The DBD also monitors foreign businesses after approval, so obtaining the FBL is not the end of the compliance process.
A typical timeline may therefore look like this:
- Month 1: Eligibility review, document collection and application preparation
- Months 2–4: Submission, DBD review and Foreign Business Committee consideration
- Months 4–6: Further clarification where required, final decision and licence issuance
Need help assessing your proposed activity? Talk to an Expert before beginning the application.
How Much Does a Foreign Business License Cost in Thailand in 2026?
The official Foreign Business License Thailand application fee is THB 2,000, with the licence fee ranging from THB 20,000 to THB 250,000 for List 3 activities (THB 40,000 to THB 500,000 for List 2), calculated on the company’s registered capital.
These are government fees and do not include professional assistance, translations, document certification or the capital required to operate the business.
Government fees
The DBD currently sets the FBL application fee at THB 2,000.
If permission is granted, a further licence fee becomes payable. The amount depends on the applicable list and on the company’s registered capital. For List 3 activities, the fee is THB 5 per THB 1,000 of registered capital, with a minimum of THB 20,000 and a maximum of THB 250,000. For a company with the standard THB 3 million capital, the licence fee is therefore THB 20,000. For List 2 activities, the fee ranges from THB 40,000 to THB 500,000. Where the company obtains a Foreign Business Certificate instead (for example under BOI promotion), the certificate fee is THB 20,000. These fees should be distinguished from the minimum capital the company must maintain or remit. Capital belongs to the business and is not an application fee paid to the government.
Other costs to budget for
Additional expenses can include translations, notarisation or legalisation of overseas documents and costs associated with capital remittance. Once operating, the company will also have normal corporate obligations, including bookkeeping, financial statements, tax filings and annual compliance.
FBL vs BOI vs Treaty of Amity: Which Route to 100% Foreign Ownership Fits You?
An FBL is not the only way a foreign investor can own 100% of a business in Thailand. The right option depends on the business activity, nationality of the shareholders, investment and longer-term plans.
When the FBL is the right choice
An FBL may be suitable where the proposed business activity is restricted under the Foreign Business Act and the company does not qualify for BOI promotion, another available exemption or protection under the US–Thailand Treaty of Amity. The company should also be able to present a credible business case and demonstrate how its activities will benefit Thailand. In practice, where the activity is not eligible for BOI promotion and the shareholders are not American, the FBL is generally the only compliant route to majority foreign ownership.
However, FBL approval is discretionary rather than automatic, and the application process can take several months. Companies considering this route should therefore factor the approval process into their plans before commencing the restricted business activity.
When BOI promotion and an FBC are better suited
Where the activity is eligible, BOI promotion is generally the route we recommend first. BOI promotion may be worth considering where the proposed business activity falls within an eligible BOI category and the company can meet the applicable investment and operational requirements.
There is a common misconception that BOI promotion is limited to large investments or highly technical projects. In practice, the BOI promotes a much wider range of business activities, including software development, digital services, consulting and other service-based businesses. This means that smaller companies may also qualify for BOI promotion, provided their activities fall within an eligible category and they can meet the relevant requirements.
For qualifying businesses, BOI promotion can allow 100% foreign ownership and may provide additional benefits, including tax incentives, a capital requirement that can be lower than under the Foreign Business Act depending on the activity, and more flexible arrangements for employing foreign specialists, with simplified work permit and visa procedures. Rather than applying for an FBL for its promoted activities, an eligible BOI-promoted company can generally obtain a Foreign Business Certificate. BOI promotion is not available for every activity, however, and where the activity is not eligible, the FBL becomes the main route.
You can also download our free BOI ebook for a more detailed explanation of the available incentives, eligibility requirements and application process.
When the Treaty of Amity applies
The US–Thailand Treaty of Amity may be an option for companies that are majority American-owned and can meet the applicable ownership and director requirements. Qualifying companies can carry out many business activities in Thailand without being subject to the usual foreign ownership restrictions under the Foreign Business Act. However, the Treaty does not cover every type of business, and certain sectors remain excluded. Other requirements, including applicable minimum capital requirements, also continue to apply.
If you are unsure whether the Treaty of Amity, BOI promotion or an FBL is the most appropriate route for your business, talk to a Belaws expert for a personalised eligibility assessment.
What’s New in 2026? FBA and FBL Updates
The Foreign Business Act B.E. 2542 (1999) remains the main legislation governing restricted foreign business activities in Thailand. However, 2026 has brought several important developments, including stronger enforcement against nominee structures and the removal of FBL requirements for certain business activities.
Stronger enforcement against nominee shareholders
Thai authorities continue to scrutinise companies suspected of using Thai nominee shareholders to avoid the foreign ownership restrictions under the Foreign Business Act.
Over the past few years, Thailand has become increasingly strict on this point. For a long time, it was relatively easy to circumvent the Foreign Business Act by placing a Thai shareholder in the majority while the company was in fact controlled by the foreign investor. Where a company is effectively controlled by foreigners, and the Thai shareholder has not invested in the company and derives no financial benefit from it, the arrangement is a criminal offence under Section 36 of the Foreign Business Act, both for the Thai nominee and for the foreigners involved. The penalties include imprisonment of up to three years and/or a fine of THB 100,000 to THB 1,000,000, a further daily fine while the offence continues, and a court order to end the arrangement.
A Thai-majority company is not automatically problematic simply because foreign shareholders are involved. However, the Thai shareholders must be genuine investors acting on their own behalf rather than holding shares for a foreign individual or business. Authorities may look beyond the company’s registered shareholding and consider factors such as the source of investment funds, relationships between shareholders and how the business is actually controlled.
Since 1 April 2026, DBD Order No. 1/2569 also requires, for certain registrations involving foreign shareholders or foreign directors, a letter confirming that the shareholders have genuinely invested and that no nominee arrangement exists. A proper due diligence of the shareholding structure, including the source of funds of each Thai shareholder, should therefore be carried out before incorporation, and existing structures should be reviewed.
Enforcement has become more significant in 2026. New regulations published in August (a deportation regulation signed by the Prime Minister and in force since 28 August 2026) expressly identify unlawful business activities under the Foreign Business Act, including nominee arrangements, as potential grounds for referring foreign nationals for deportation.
There is also a positive side to this stricter approach. In our recent experience, as the authorities become stricter on nominee structures and illegitimate Thai partners, the formal routes are becoming more accessible: a well-prepared FBL application now appears to have a better chance of success than in the past, and the criteria applied appear somewhat clearer and less opaque than before. For foreign investors whose activity is not eligible for BOI promotion, the FBL has therefore become a more realistic option than it used to be.
Foreign investors should therefore avoid using a Thai-majority structure simply as a way to circumvent the FBA and instead consider whether an FBL, BOI promotion, Treaty of Amity protection or another permitted structure is available. Belaws can review an existing or proposed shareholding structure and advise on the options to regularise it.
New FBA exemptions introduced in 2026
Thailand has also taken steps to make it easier for foreign-owned companies to operate certain businesses without obtaining an FBL.
New ministerial regulations published on 28 August 2026 exempt several activities that were previously subject to restrictions under the Foreign Business Act. These include certain telecommunications services, treasury centre activities, intragroup administrative, human resources and IT management services, certain securities and derivatives activities, intragroup debt guarantees, and specified petroleum drilling services.
The changes are particularly relevant to multinational groups providing services between affiliated companies in Thailand. A qualifying foreign-owned company carrying out one of the newly exempted activities may no longer need an FBL or Foreign Business Certificate for that activity. The intragroup exemptions only apply between related companies that meet the relationship criteria set out in the regulations, and services provided to third parties remain restricted.
However, exemption from the Foreign Business Act does not remove other regulatory requirements. Depending on the activity, the company may still require licences, registrations or approvals under sector-specific legislation.
Businesses currently operating under an FBL or considering an application should therefore confirm whether their activities fall within one of the new exemptions before deciding which structure to use.
Global minimum tax for large multinational groups
Thailand’s global minimum tax rules are another consideration for larger international businesses operating in the country.
Thailand implemented the OECD Pillar Two framework from 1 January 2025, introducing a 15% minimum effective tax rate for multinational enterprise groups that meet the applicable revenue threshold.
The rules do not change the basic FBL application process and will not affect most foreign-owned SMEs operating in Thailand. However, multinational groups within the scope of Pillar Two should consider the potential tax consequences when deciding how to structure their Thai operations, particularly where BOI tax incentives are also involved.
For larger international groups, foreign ownership, licensing and tax planning should therefore be considered together rather than as separate issues.
Why Choose Belaws for Your Foreign Business License?
Belaws provides legal, corporate and accounting services for businesses operating in Thailand. Our clients include Decathlon, Edenred, Delifrance, Acoem and Artelia, alongside thousands of companies and entrepreneurs we have assisted with establishing and managing their businesses in Thailand.
BOI and Foreign Business License specialists
Obtaining an FBL is not always the only option available to a foreign-owned company in Thailand. Before recommending an application, our experts review the proposed business activities, ownership structure and the alternatives available under Thai law.
Depending on the business, this may include applying for an FBL, obtaining BOI promotion and a Foreign Business Certificate, relying on protection under the US–Thailand Treaty of Amity, or using another compliant corporate structure.
This allows foreign investors to understand their options before committing to a particular structure, especially where 100% foreign ownership is an important consideration.
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Establishing and operating a foreign-owned business can involve professional fees, government charges and additional costs depending on the structure and services required.
Belaws team of experts provide clear pricing and confirms our professional fees before work begins. Where government fees, translations, accounting services or other additional costs are expected, these can also be identified in advance so you have a clearer understanding of the overall cost.
Legal, corporate, accounting and visa support in one place
Obtaining an FBL is often only one part of establishing and operating a foreign-owned company in Thailand. Businesses may also need assistance with company incorporation, registered capital, tax and VAT registration, accounting and compliance, as well as work permits and visas for foreign employees.
Belaws brings these services together through one team, allowing businesses to manage both their initial setup and ongoing corporate requirements without having to coordinate several separate service providers.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Foreign Business License in Thailand
What is a foreign business license in Thailand?
A Foreign Business Licence is government permission allowing a foreign business to undertake certain activities restricted under the Foreign Business Act B.E. 2542 (1999).
For many companies, the relevant restrictions are found under List 3 of the Act. Applications are considered through the Department of Business Development and Foreign Business Committee. An FBL should not be confused with a Foreign Business Certificate, which applies where the company has an existing right or exemption allowing it to operate.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a company in Thailand?
Yes. A foreigner can own 100% of a company in Thailand in several circumstances, including through an FBL, BOI promotion or, for qualifying American-owned businesses, the Treaty of Amity.
The correct route depends on what the company intends to do. Some activities are unrestricted and can already be 100% foreign-owned, while others require permission or an exemption under the Foreign Business Act. Most service activities fall in the second category.
What businesses are restricted under the Foreign Business Act?
The Foreign Business Act divides restricted activities into Lists 1, 2 and 3.
The restrictions cover a wide range of activities, including certain agricultural businesses, natural-resource activities, trading activities and services. List 3 is particularly important for foreign investors because it includes a broad category covering “other service businesses”. The company’s actual revenue-generating activities should therefore be checked before deciding whether an FBL is required.
Do I need an FBL for consulting in Thailand?
A majority foreign-owned consulting company may require an FBL where its services fall within List 3 and no exemption applies.
However, the answer depends on the precise nature of the consulting services. Certain activities may qualify for BOI promotion or another exemption, while others will require permission under the Foreign Business Act. An activity assessment should therefore be completed before the company begins providing services.
Do I need an FBL for e-commerce in Thailand?
Possibly. Whether an e-commerce company needs an FBL depends on what the company actually does rather than simply whether it operates online.
For example, the Foreign Business Act treatment may differ depending on whether the company sells goods, provides a marketplace, earns service fees or performs another digital activity. Some technology businesses may also qualify for BOI promotion. The full business and revenue model should therefore be reviewed.
How much does a foreign business license cost in Thailand in 2026?
The government application fee is THB 2,000, while the licence fee following approval ranges from THB 20,000 to THB 250,000 for List 3 activities, depending on the company’s registered capital (THB 40,000 to THB 500,000 for List 2).
Applicants should also budget for professional assistance and, where applicable, translations, notarisation and corporate compliance. Minimum capital is a separate requirement and should not be confused with the government licence fee.
What is the minimum capital for an FBL?
A foreign business carrying out a restricted activity is generally subject to a minimum capital requirement of at least THB 3 million for each restricted business activity, subject to the applicable rules and structure.
Capital requirements should be reviewed alongside the company’s operating costs and work permit plans. Different requirements can apply depending on whether the company is incorporated in Thailand or is a foreign entity operating in Thailand.
Are FBL fees refundable if the application is rejected?
The THB 2,000 application fee is paid as part of the application process and should not be treated as conditional on approval.
The larger licence fee becomes relevant following approval and issuance of the licence. Professional fees and other preparation costs will depend on the work already completed. Belaws confirms its professional scope and pricing upfront so applicants can understand these costs before proceeding.
How long does an FBL take in Thailand?
A Foreign Business License in Thailand typically takes around four to six months from preparation through to completion, although individual cases vary.
The Foreign Business Act requires a decision within 60 days of receipt of a complete application, but that does not represent the entire project timeline. Preparing the business plan, assembling documents, responding to questions and completing final licensing steps can extend the overall process.
How long is a Foreign Business Licence valid?
An FBL is generally not a short-term permission that needs to be reapplied for every year. In practice, FBLs are generally issued without an expiry date.
However, the company must continue to comply with the scope and conditions of its permission. Changes to the business activities, ownership or other material aspects of the company should be reviewed to determine whether they affect the licence or require further action.
What documents are required for an FBL application?
An FBL application generally requires corporate documents, shareholder and director information, details of the proposed activity, financial information and a detailed business plan.
The application may also need to explain projected revenue, employment, investment and the technology or know-how the company will bring to Thailand. Overseas documents may require translation, notarisation or legalisation depending on their origin and purpose.
What happens if my FBL application is rejected?
A rejected applicant can appeal the decision within the applicable period. The DBD’s published licensing process provides for an appeal to the Minister of Commerce within 30 days following a refusal.
Before deciding whether to appeal, it is useful to understand why permission was not granted and whether the underlying issue can be addressed. In some cases, an alternative ownership or investment route may be more practical than continuing with the original FBL structure.
Can I start operating while waiting for my FBL?
A company should not begin carrying out a restricted activity simply because an FBL application has been submitted.
Where permission is required under the Foreign Business Act, the company should obtain the relevant approval before carrying out that restricted business. Companies can generally complete preparatory corporate work during this period, but the distinction between preparation and actually operating the restricted activity should be considered carefully.
What are the penalties for operating without an FBL?
Operating a restricted business without the required permission can result in criminal penalties and orders requiring the unauthorised activity to stop. Under Section 37 of the Foreign Business Act, the penalty is imprisonment of up to three years and/or a fine of THB 100,000 to THB 1,000,000, plus a daily fine for as long as the violation continues.
The Foreign Business Act also contains penalties relating to attempts to circumvent its restrictions. The consequences can extend beyond a financial penalty and create significant problems for the company and the people involved. Foreign ownership and licensing should therefore be addressed before restricted operations begin.
Are Thai nominee shareholders legal?
No. Using Thai nominee shareholders to conceal foreign ownership or circumvent the Foreign Business Act is illegal.
A legitimate majority Thai-owned company can operate in Thailand, but its Thai shareholders must genuinely hold their shares rather than acting on behalf of foreign investors. In practice, this means that the Thai shareholders must have actually invested their own funds and must receive the financial benefits attached to their shares. The DBD actively investigates suspected nominee arrangements, including cases involving the source of shareholder funds and actual control of the company. Both the Thai nominee and the foreigners involved face criminal penalties under Section 36 of the Foreign Business Act.
What is the difference between an FBL and a Foreign Business Certificate?
An FBL is permission to carry out a restricted business, while an FBC generally confirms a right to operate that already exists under another legal framework.
For example, a company receiving BOI promotion may obtain an FBC for its promoted activities rather than applying for discretionary FBL approval. Treaty of Amity and certain IEAT structures can also lead to an FBC. This distinction is important when comparing routes to 100% foreign ownership.
How does Belaws help with the FBL process?
Belaws can manage the FBL process from the initial eligibility assessment through application preparation, submission and follow-up with the relevant authorities.
Our experts first determine whether the FBL is the appropriate route or whether BOI promotion, an FBC or another compliant structure would better suit the business. We can then coordinate the corporate, legal, accounting, visa and work permit requirements needed to establish and operate the company.
Getting Started with Your Foreign Business License in Thailand
A Foreign Business License in Thailand can provide a route to majority or 100% foreign ownership where the proposed activity is restricted under the Foreign Business Act. However, it should not automatically be treated as the first or only option.
Before proceeding, keep three points in mind:
— Check the activity first. Whether an FBL is required depends on what the company will actually do in Thailand.
— Compare the available ownership routes. BOI promotion, an FBC or Treaty of Amity protection may provide an alternative depending on the business and shareholders.
— Prepare for a substantive application. FBL approval is discretionary, and applicants should be ready to explain their investment, business model and contribution to Thailand.
Belaws helps foreign investors identify the appropriate 100% foreign ownership structure before committing to an application. Where an FBL is the right route, our team can manage the process with transparent pricing and no hidden fees. If your company currently relies on Thai shareholders, we can also review the structure and the options available to secure it.
You can also download our free company registration guide for more information about establishing a company in Thailand.
