Key Issues You Need to Know When Doing a Business in Thailand
On the scenario that a foreigner is exploring the business opportunity and would like to establish a company for operating its business in Thailand, if more than 49% of shares are held by foreigner(s) (either individual(s) or entity(ies)), the company is considered as a foreign company under the Foreign Business Act B.E. 2542 (“FBA”). In this case, certain restrictions in doing businesses will be applied and the company cannot hold ownership over the land subject to international agreements/treaties that the country of nationality of such foreigner(s) has entered into with Thailand and/or privilege policies granted by the government of Thailand.
For some restricted business under the FBA, if the foreign company would like to do so, a specific foreign business license is required. However, some types of business are exempted from the provisions of FBA such as the businesses related to the securities exchange and financial institutes. but, those exempted businesses from the provisions of FBA may be, on the other hand, regulated, supervised or monitored by other specific laws and regulations of relevant authorities such as the Bank of Thailand.
It is noteworthy that the numbers of foreign individual working or representing the company, even as a director or authorized director, will not impact the ownership of shares in the company.
The requirements on visa and work permit for foreign employee(s)/director(s) play a significant role on the elements of business operation. The specific ratio of Thai employees to each foreign employee will be applied when considering the matters of visa and work permit. The size of investment is also a matter attribute to the requirements for granting visa and work permit to the foreign employee(s)/director(s).
Last but not least, the issues of tax and dividend are among major questions and concerns how the laws and practices work here in Thailand. The corporate income tax is currently imposed in the range of 15% – 20% of the net profit subject to certain exemptions. Also, the dividend distribution is subject to tax implications, but may be deducted or credited under the applicable double taxation agreement that Thailand have entered into, and regulatory corporate provisions before its distribution.
In the nutshell, the business and investment opportunities in Thailand is wide open for foreign investors. You are totally welcome here in Thailand, but it is for your best advantage to be fully aware of restrictions with good strategies and structure planning.
