Written by the Thai Legal & Immigration legal team · Last reviewed · Editorial policy
Owning shares does not require a work permit, but actively managing a Thai company does. Foreign directors who attend meetings regularly, sign documents, hire staff or run day-to-day operations need a work permit, even if they draw no salary.
The company must meet the usual conditions — registered capital and Thai headcount — and the director's role must be recorded consistently in company documents. We align the shareholder register, director list and permit application.
What we handle
- Assessment of director activities.
- Company compliance review.
- Non-B visa and work permit filing.
- Ongoing renewals and changes of directorship.
How the process works
Step 1
Activity review
Director duties and signing authority mapped.
Step 2
Company check
Capital, staff and filings verified.
Step 3
Filing
Visa and permit applications lodged.
Step 4
Upkeep
Renewals and DBD changes tracked.
Not sure this route fits you?
Get a Free Preliminary Eligibility Review from our licensed team.
Why are applications refused, and how do we prepare?
| Common refusal reason | How we prepare |
|---|---|
| Director not registered at DBD or company inactive | We check DBD records and tax filings. |
Counsel's note
Directors who visit only for board meetings may fall under a short-term urgent-work notification rather than a full permit. We advise on the lighter route where it applies.
Frequently asked
I only sign documents occasionally — do I need a permit?
Can a foreign shareholder be a silent investor?
Advice by nationality
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 Employment — checked 2026-11-03
General information only, not legal advice. Immigration decisions rest with the Thai authorities. See our disclaimer.