Step 1: Reserve Your Company Name

Start by reserving your company name via the DBD (Department of Business Development). Tips:

• Suggest 3 names ranked by preference.

• Avoid similarity (in Thai or English) with existing names.

• If using “Thailand,” put it in brackets at the end (e.g., ABC Co., Ltd. (Thailand)).

• Name is valid for 30 days—move fast to step 2.

Step 2: Prepare Your Docs

You’ll need to submit key details to draft your MOA and registration papers:

• Company name, objectives, capital

• Office address (can be a co-working space short-term)

• Promoters’ info (2+ individuals, not companies)

• Director(s) and shareholders’ details

• Digital copies of passports/IDs and lease agreement (for address proof)

Pro Tip: In 2025, many service providers support e-signatures and remote filing.

Step 3: Register Your Company

Submit your paperwork to DBD. Get:

• Company Registration Certificate

• Tax ID

Fees: THB 5,500 per THB 1 million in registered capital. Processing time? Usually 1–3 days with complete documents.

Step 4: Open a Bank Account

Choose a Thai bank (e.g., Bangkok Bank, SCB, or Kasikorn). You’ll need:

• Company papers

• Director’s passport and visa

• Resolution allowing bank signatory (if more than one director)

Hot tip: Some banks now allow corporate account setup appointments online.

Step 5: Register for Tax & VAT

Apply for your company corporate tax ID within 60 days. VAT is required if:

• Revenue exceeds 1.8M THB/year

• You hire foreign staff

Have a lease agreement and proof of business address ready. In 2025, digital lease uploads are often accepted.

Step 6: Social Security Registration

Mandatory if you hire employees (Thai or foreign). Register within 30 days of your first hire. You’ll need:

• Employee IDs/passports

• Workplace photos

• Salary & job title

Avoid fines — this step is often skipped by first-timers.

Step 7: Get Visas (Non-B) for Foreign Directors/Staff

Once your company is set up and tax-registered, you can sponsor visas. You’ll need:

• Invitation letter

• Company papers

• Supporting docs from Thai employer (you)

In 2025, many applicants start the process online before arrival.

Step 8: Apply for Work Permits

Apply at the Ministry of Labour. Required:

• WP3 approval letter

• Medical certificate (Thai clinic)

• Education certificates

• Photos + contract

Note: For every foreigner, the company must have 2M THB capital and 4 Thai employees (exceptions apply).

Step 9: Extend Visa (Beyond 90 Days)

Once your work permit is issued, extend your visa at Immigration. Submit:

• VAT returns

• Social Security filings

• Employee records

Conclusion

Starting a business in Thailand in 2025 is more digital, but still layered. Save yourself time and risk — partner with a service provider like SIAC Consulting to manage the process end to end.