Dreaming of starting a business in Thailand? Whether it’s a cozy café by the Hua Hin beach, a tech startup, or a consultancy for fellow expats, Thailand offers incredible opportunities. But setting up a company here can feel like a maze—legal steps, paperwork, and rules galore. At Legal First Hua Hin, we’re here to simplify it for you. Here’s your step-by-step guide to launching a company the right way, plus a heads-up on why skipping shortcuts matters more than ever in 2025.
Why Set Up a Company in Thailand?
Thailand’s booming tourism, growing expat hubs like Hua Hin, and business-friendly vibe make it a hotspot for entrepreneurs. A registered company unlocks perks: legal credibility, tax benefits, and even a Non-B visa to live and work here. But doing it properly is key—especially with authorities tightening up on shady setups.
Step-by-Step: Setting Up Your Thai Company
Here’s how Legal First Hua Hin guides expats through the process—straightforward and legit:
Step 1: Pick Your Business Structure
First, choose how your company will look. Most expats go for a Limited Company—it’s flexible and allows up to 49% foreign ownership (51% must be Thai unless you qualify for exceptions like BOI promotion). Want 100% control? We can explore options like consulting or export businesses. It’s all about finding what fits your dream.
Step 2: Reserve Your Company Name
Next, pick a unique name—no duplicates or offensive words allowed! We check it with the Department of Business Development (DBD) and get it approved in 1–3 days. It’ll end with “Limited” for private companies—think “Hua Hin Coffee Limited.” Simple, right?
Step 3: File the Basics
Now, we set the foundation: your company’s goals (e.g., “tourism services”), registered capital (minimum 2 million THB if you need work permits), and shareholder details. We file this Memorandum of Association (MOA) with the DBD. It’s the legal backbone of your business, done fast with our help.
Step 4: Get Tax Ready
Time to go official with the Revenue Department. We snag you a Tax ID and, if your revenue will top 1.8 million THB annually, a VAT registration. This takes 3–5 days and keeps you compliant—no tax surprises later!
Step 5: Bank Account & Permits
Finally, open a company bank account (we’ll guide you through Thai bank rules) and grab any extra permits—like a restaurant license if you’re serving pad thai. From start to finish, you’re up and running in 2–4 weeks. That’s it—your business is live!
Watch Out: The Nominee Trap
Here’s a big heads-up: many expats in Hua Hin and beyond run businesses under Thai friends’ or spouses’ names to dodge foreign ownership limits. It’s a common shortcut—but it’s risky. Thai authorities are cracking down harder in 2025, with fines, business closures, and even visa troubles on the rise. Why chance it? Setting up properly keeps you in control and out of hot water. Legal First Hua Hin ensures your company’s legit—no nominee headaches.
How Legal First Hua Hin Can Help
Based right here in Hua Hin, we’ve helped expats and locals launch businesses the right way—fast, legal, and tailored to your needs. Whether it’s picking the perfect structure, filing with the DBD, or tying in a work visa, we’ve got your back. It’s not just about paperwork—it’s about peace of mind in paradise.
Ready to Start?
Your Thai business dream is closer than you think. Contact Legal First Hua Hin toda
call us at +66 96 240 8619
email info@legalfirsthuahin.com, or visit
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