Written by the Thai Legal & Immigration legal team · Last reviewed · Editorial policy
The Foreign Business Act lists activities restricted to foreigners across three schedules. Activities in List 3 — which includes most services — may be operated by a foreign company only with a Foreign Business Licence or Certificate.
Licence applications require a detailed business justification, evidence of benefit to Thailand and minimum capital.
What we handle
- Activity classification under the Act.
- Licence and certificate applications.
- Treaty of Amity (US) certificates.
- Compliance reviews for existing structures.
How the process works
Step 1
Classification
We determine whether a licence is required.
Step 2
Application
Justification paper and filing.
Step 3
Committee review
Responses to committee queries.
Not sure this route fits you?
Get a Free Preliminary Eligibility Review from our licensed team.
Counsel's note
Approval is discretionary. A strong economic-benefit narrative and realistic capital commitments materially affect outcomes.
Frequently asked
Which activities are banned outright?
Is a licence needed for a representative office?
Why clients choose us
Six licensed Thai attorneys
Including Notarial Services Attorneys registered with the Lawyers Council of Thailand.
77 provinces covered
Offices in Bangkok and Khon Kaen with field representatives nationwide.
Your passport stays with you
We work from copies and only handle originals for filings you approve.
Honest assessment first
A Free Preliminary Eligibility Review tells you your options before any engagement.
Sources & references
- Department of Business Development — checked 2026-11-03
General information only, not legal advice. Immigration decisions rest with the Thai authorities. See our disclaimer.