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How do I get an e-commerce business licence in Thailand?
28/10/2022
Many businesses are turning to the internet as a way to sell their goods and services. E-commerce allows businesses to reach a wider range of customers globally, while also requiring lower investment levels than other business models.
However, online businesses in Thailand are required to obtain an e-commerce licence before they can operate legally.
For more information about business licences in Thailand, please take a look at our blog post on the subject here.
Key points
- A business in Thailand operating one or more websites for the sale of their goods or services must apply for an e-commerce licence.
- From the moment that the business begins its operations, the business is required to apply for the e-commerce licence within 30 days.
What are e-commerce licences?
A business in Thailand operating one or more websites for the sale of their goods or services must apply for an e-commerce licence.
The e-commerce licence can be obtained quite quickly, however, it requires the e-commerce website to be complete and operational. Therefore, the payment process needs to be ready for sale, and all products need to be clearly detailed on the website.
From the moment that the business begins its operations, the business is required to apply for the e-commerce licence within 30 days.
There is also no need to renew the e-commerce licence.
What documents are required for obtaining an e-commerce licence?
To obtain an e-commerce license, the following documents must be submitted at the District Office where the head office is located (if outside Bangkok) or Bangkok Metropolitan Administration.
- Application for e-commerce Registration (Tor. Por. form and the attachment), where you will declare the details of your website
- ID card or Passport of the applicant
- For an individual – ID card or passport
- For a juristic person – ID card or passport of authorised director and the company affidavit
- A power of attorney (if any)
- A clarification letter (in case of late registration).
What additional information is required for applying for an e-commerce licence?
An application for the e-commerce licence can be submitted once the website is operational, and the required details from the website owner include:
- Name of the website.
- Nature of the goods or services being sold on the website.
- The date on which the website starts/started operating (application should be made within 30 days from the start date).
- Method of payment for the purchase.
- Documents provide the domain name registration or certification document from the service provider (ISP or web host).
- A map showing the business location.
- In the case where the commercial operator does not have a landlord, the following additional documents are required:
– A letter of consent to use the premises or a rental contract.
– A copy of the ID card of the location owner, along with a copy of the house registration or documents showing that they are the owner of the property.
When should you apply for an e-commerce licence?
You have to register for an e-commerce licence within 30 days from the date of operation of your online business. An application must be submitted to the District Office where the head office is located or Bangkok Metropolitan Administration.
However, if your head office is located outside Bangkok, you need to submit the application form at the Provincial Administration Organization.
How can Belaws help?
For more information about e-commerce licences in Thailand, why not talk to one of our experts now?
Please note that this article is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Our consultations last for a period of up to 1 hour and are conducted by expert Lawyers who are fluent in English, French and Thai.
Consultations can be hosted via WhatsApp or Video Conferencing software for your convenience. A consultation with one of our legal experts is undoubtedly the best way to get all the information you need and answer any questions you may have about your new business or project.
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Frequently asked questions
Can a foreigner open a company in Thailand?
Yes it is possible for a foreigner to open a company in Thailand. There are also options available which allow 100% foreign owned companies as well.
How much does it cost to set up a company in Thailand?
The official fees for registering a company in Thailand are THB 7,500.
How do I start a limited company in Thailand?
- Step 1: Choose and register a company name.
- Step 2: Draft and file the Memorandum of Association.
- Step 3: Call and hold a Statutory Meeting of the shareholders
- Step 4: Register the Company with the Ministry of Commerce.
- Step 5: Register the company for Value-Added Tax (VAT) and Income Tax
Is it good to start a business in Thailand?
Thailand is an attractive option for those wishing to start a business. Thailand has a great infrastructure in place and scheme such as the BOI provide great incentives for companies to take advantage of.
How much money do you need to start a business in Thailand?
Typically, it costs between THB 40,000 to THB 60,000 (excluding VAT and Government fees) to start a business in Thailand.The official fees for registering a company in Thailand are THB 7,500.
How can a foreigner start a small business in Thailand?
Yes, foreigners can start a business in Thailand. However, certain business activities are restricted by the Foreign Business Act and in order for businesses to undertake them they must obtain a Foreign Business Licence/Certificate which can be time consuming and complicated.
What is the biggest problem in Thailand?
The biggest problem facing foreign owned companies is being able to undertake their desired business activity as a 100% foreign owned company. Many business activities are protected by the Foreign Business Act and in order for a company to operate in these protected industries, they will be required to be majority owned by Thai Shareholders (unless a BOI promotion has been obtained).
Why is it hard to do business in Thailand?
The Foreign Business Act limits to the business activities a 100% foreign owned company can undertake. This means Thai Shareholders will need to be sought or a BOI promotion obtained in order for a company to legally operate.
Can I own a company in Thailand?
Yes, foreigners can start a business in Thailand. However, certain business activities are restricted by the Foreign Business Act and in order for businesses to undertake them they must obtain a Foreign Business Licence/Certificate which can be time consuming and complicated.
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