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Start a Spa or Massage Business
If you’re considering starting a massage business, Thailand’s booming tourism industry and highly regarded knowledge of massages make it an ideal choice for investors. However, investors should be aware that in order to succeed as a spa or massage business in Thailand, businesses are required to get the right licences and adhere to the health and safety requirements
In this blog, we will explore what is required to start a spa and/or massage business in Thailand.
Key points
- Spa and Massage Businesses cannot be 100% foreign owned and require Thai partners to own over 50% of the shares.
- Business Licences are required for both massage and spa businesses. Specific activities require specific licences.
- Masseuses and spa staff are required to obtain the correct licence for their specialist service, for example a masseuse who offers traditional Thai massages are required to have the required licence.
Why is Thailand a Good Choice to Open A Spa and Massage Business?
Thailand’s wellness industry is highly developed, attracting both leisure and business visitors from around the world. The country’s reputation for high-quality spa services, traditional Thai treatments, and therapeutic massages make it an ideal location to establish a massage business.
What Type of Spa/Massage Businesses are there in Thailand?
In Thailand, there are two types of massage businesses: day spas and destination spas.
Day Spas
Day spas offer a wide range of health and wellness services but do not provide overnight accommodation. These businesses are highly popular in large cities, hotel and tourist destinations.
Destination Spas
Destination spas, on the other hand, offer a comprehensive wellness experience, including accommodation, meals, and a variety of specialized treatments. These spas are often located in scenic areas, catering to individuals seeking a retreat-like experience.
What is the difference between a Massage and Spa Business?
While they may sound similar, a massage and spa business have distinct differences. A massage business can only provide massages (oil massages, sports massages and traditional massages). Please note, the types of massages offered are dependent on the licences held by the masseuses employed.
A health spa business on the other can provide the same massages a massage business can, but also other services such as Jacuzzi, Onsen, Hydrotherapy, steam and sauna rooms as well.
What are the Licensing Requirements for Spa and/or Massage Businesses in Thailand?
To operate a massage business in Thailand, you need to obtain the necessary licenses. The specific requirements vary depending on the type of massage services you intend to offer.
Health Massage Business License
If you plan to provide health massages, oil massages, sports massages, or traditional massages, you must obtain a Health Massage Business Licence. In order to obtain a Health Massage Business Licence, the following requirements must be satisfied:
Licensed Massage Therapists
Your masseuses or massage therapists must hold a valid license indicating the type of massage they are qualified to provide and the areas of the body they can massage.
Service Limitations
Your massage business can only offer services based on the licenses held by your masseuses or massage therapists. Ensure that their qualifications align with the services you intend to provide.
Health Spa Business License?
If you wish to operate a health spa business, which includes offering hydrotherapy services, steam and sauna rooms, in addition to various types of massages, you need to obtain a Health Spa Business License. The requirements for this license include:
Spa Operator License
The operator of the spa must hold a valid Spa Manager License issued by the Ministry of Public Health. This license is typically available for registration once a year.
Masseuse License
Your masseuse or massage service provider must hold a license to provide health massage services. The areas or parts of the body they are licensed to massage will determine the services your spa can offer.
Spa Location
The spa must be located in an area with a reliable and clean water supply and proper sewage drainage.
Do Masseuses Require any Licences?
When operating a Spa or Massage business it is essential that the business hires qualified individuals. Depending on what services are being offered by the business, certain masseuses will require certain licences.
Health Service Provider Certificate
This mandatory certificate, issued by the Department of Health Service Support (DHSS), is required for all individuals providing health services in Thailand, including massage therapists. It’s not specific to masseuses but encompasses various healthcare professions. To obtain this certificate, individuals must undergo training that covers basic anatomy and physiology, first aid, infection control, communication skills, and ethics in healthcare.
Thai Traditional Massage Practitioner Certificate
If your masseuse is going to perform a traditional Thai massage, they must have completed the Thai Traditional Massage Practitioner Certificate program. These programs are offered by various institutions, including:
- Wat Pho Thai Traditional Medical and Massage School (the oldest and most prestigious school in Thailand)
- The International Training Center for Traditional Thai Massage and Yoga
- Chiang Mai School of Traditional Massage
Spa Technician Certificate
The more general Spa Technician Certificate program is required for the staff members employed by a Spa business. The Spa Technician Certificate covers a wider range of spa services, including body scrubs, facials, and aromatherapy, along with basic anatomy and physiology, and customer service skills.
Can a Foreigner Open a Spa or Massage Business in Thailand?
It is not possible for a massage or spa business to be 100% foreign owned. This is due to the restrictions of the Foreign Business Act which restricts foreigners from undertaking about 50 types of business. Spa and Massage businesses are restricted to foreign owners due to the industry being designated as an area where “Thai nationals are not ready to compete” with foreigners.
Therefore, with the restrictions of the Foreign Business Act, spa and massage businesses can only be undertaken by a Thai company (a company registered in Thailand with Thai shareholder(s) owning more than 50% of the share capital). A private limited company is the most common business type for a spa or massage business.
The requirement for opening a Thai Limited Company are as follows:
- 2 shareholders
- One or more directors
- 50,000 THB minimum capital (2M THB if you want to have a work permit for a foreign employee )
- A registered corporate address in Thailand
What are the Requirements for Employing Staff for a Spa or Massage Business in Thailand?
When looking to hire staff for your spa or massage business, one important consideration is that foreigners are not allowed to give or provide massage or spa services. The positions of masseuse and other similar jobs are restricted for foreigners and can only be provided by Thai nationals.
However, foreigners are permitted to train Thai staff to perform massages etc.
High turnover, sometimes employed as an employee but often working on a daily basis and receiving a payment as a % of the massages they performed.
What are the Lease Requirements for a Spa or Massage Business?
When looking to open, or purchase an existing spa or massage the lease registration of the business must be seriously considered. This is especially the case if the business plans to invest in the building to make it look good.
The most important consideration for businesses is that lease agreements in Thailand that are for longer than 3 years must be registered at the land office. The maximum length of a lease in Thailand is 30 years.
Please also note that to ensure the enforceability of a lease (tenancy rental) agreement in Thailand for more than three years, it must be registered with the local land office.
Additionally, it is recommended that the lease contract be registered with the Thailand Land Department within three years of signing and beginning of the tenancy in order to avoid the lessee losing their right to bring a lease dispute to a court of law.
Upon registration of the lease agreement, the lease registration fees and stamp duty are due, totaling 1.1% of the overall lease price for the entire term. Furthermore, the income generated from the lease, also known as rental income, is subject to personal income tax and must be paid to the Revenue Department by the owner.
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How can Belaws help?
For more information about setting up a spa or massage business 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
Why is Thailand an ideal location to start a spa or massage business?
Thailand’s booming tourism industry and reputation for high-quality spa services and traditional Thai massages make it an ideal destination for investors looking to establish a spa or massage business.
What are the different types of spa and massage businesses in Thailand?
In Thailand, there are two main types of massage businesses: day spas and destination spas. Day spas offer various health and wellness services without accommodation, while destination spas provide comprehensive wellness experiences, including accommodation and specialized treatments.
What are the licensing requirements for spa and massage businesses in Thailand?
Spa and massage businesses in Thailand require specific licenses depending on the services offered. Health Massage Business Licenses are required for massages, while Health Spa Business Licenses are needed for spas offering additional services like hydrotherapy. Masseuses must also hold relevant licenses for their specialized services.
Can foreigners open a spa or massage business in Thailand?
Foreigners are restricted from owning 100% of a spa or massage business in Thailand due to the Foreign Business Act. These businesses must be majority-owned by Thai shareholders, requiring a Thai Limited Company structure with at least 51% Thai ownership.
What are the requirements for employing staff in a spa or massage business?
Foreigners are prohibited from providing massage or spa services in Thailand, but they can train Thai staff. Employment positions for masseuses and similar roles are reserved for Thai nationals. High turnover employment arrangements are common in this industry.
What are the lease requirements for a spa or massage business in Thailand?
Lease agreements longer than three years must be registered at the local land office in Thailand. The maximum lease term is 30 years. Registration involves payment of registration fees and stamp duty. It’s recommended to register the lease within three years to ensure enforceability and avoid legal disputes.
How can Belaws assist with starting a spa or massage business in Thailand?
Belaws offers comprehensive legal support for starting a spa or massage business in Thailand, including guidance on licensing requirements, lease agreements, company registration, and compliance with local regulations. Our expert team ensures a smooth and legally compliant setup process for your business.
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