Company Registration
Your gateway to the Eastern Economic Corridor — complete frameworks for local and international entities with regulatory compliance.
Key numbers at a glance
- Typical timeline
- 2–4 weeks
- Registered capital (common)
- From 2M THB (higher for visas & licenses)
- Thai staff ratio (work permit)
- Often 4 Thai : 1 foreign
- Legal form
- Thai Co., Ltd.
Why register in Chonburi
Pattaya sits inside the EEC footprint with strong tourism, logistics, and property demand. A Thai limited company is the standard vehicle for operating restaurants, hotels, import/export, and service businesses — with clear rules on foreign ownership, nominee structures, and BOI upgrades when eligible.
Compliance reminders
- Business objectives on your registration must match the licenses you will apply for (F&B, hotel, import, etc.). Mismatches delay approvals.
- Nominee shareholder arrangements carry legal risk. Use licensed advisors; Pattaya.com explains options but does not provide legal services.
- Foreign Business Act and sector caps may limit foreign control in some activities — check BOI promotion before you finalize structure.
Information only — not legal advice. Confirm details with licensed professionals in Thailand.
Registration roadmap
- 01
Name reservation & structure
Reserve your company name (Thai/English), define objectives, shareholders, and registered capital aligned with visa and license needs.
- 02
Memorandum & statutory meeting
Prepare MOA/AOA, appoint directors, and hold the statutory meeting — typically coordinated with your law firm.
- 03
DBD registration & tax IDs
File with the Department of Business Development, obtain tax ID, and register VAT/social security when thresholds apply.
- 04
Licenses & work permits
Layer industry permits (F&B, hotel, import) and Non-B / work permit filings once the entity is active.
Document checklist
- Passport copies of all shareholders & directors
- Registered address evidence (office or virtual office contract)
- Bank certificate for paid-up capital (amount per structure)
- Lease or ownership docs for operating premises
- Business objectives matching future license categories
Included in premium setup
Work permit pathway
Ratio planning for Thai vs foreign staff before you hire your first manager.
Accounting handover
Monthly filing calendar, invoice templates, and payroll registration.
BOI readiness review
Screen activities for promotion eligibility before you commit capital.
Recommended reading order
Work through these guides in order after you understand the steps below.
- 1
Finish this registration guide
Steps, documents, and compliance notes on this page.
- 2
BOI promotion (if investing at scale)
Tax holidays and higher foreign ownership when your activity qualifies.
- 3
Industry operating guide
Restaurant, bar, or hotel permits after the company exists.
- 4
Work permit basics
Non-B visa and 4:1 staffing rules for foreign managers.
- 5
Immigration & compliance news
90-day reporting, extensions, and rule changes affecting expat operators.
Frequently asked questions
How long does Thai company registration take?
With complete documents and a responsive law firm, many Pattaya setups finish DBD registration in about 2–4 weeks. Industry licenses and work permits add extra time.
What is the minimum registered capital?
There is no single legal minimum for every business, but 2 million THB is a common starting point. Higher capital is often required for work permits, certain licenses, and visa support — your advisor will model this.
Can foreigners own 100% of the company?
Usually not for most operating businesses without BOI promotion. A Thai limited company often uses a majority-Thai shareholding structure, or you pursue BOI / treaty routes with professional advice.
When can I apply for a work permit?
After the company is registered, has a tax ID, and meets office and capitalization checks. You also need the 4 Thai : 1 foreign employee ratio (with exceptions by role and promotion).
Do I need a physical office in Pattaya?
DBD requires a registered address. Many startups use serviced offices or virtual offices that qualify for registration; operating licenses (e.g. restaurant) usually need a real commercial site.
What taxes apply after registration?
Corporate income tax applies to profits. VAT registration is required when revenue crosses thresholds. Withholding tax and social security apply once you hire staff — set up accounting from month one.
Can I open a restaurant with only this guide?
This page covers the company. You still need the F&B guide for hygiene certificates, liquor (if applicable), and municipal sign-off — start company first, then industry permits.
Where should I get professional help?
Licensed Thai law firms and accounting firms in Chonburi/Pattaya handle DBD filings daily. Compare 2–3 quotes, verify BOI experience if relevant, and never rely on informal nominee arrangements.
Where filings happen
Most investors use a Pattaya/Chonburi law firm to queue at these offices on their behalf.
Department of Business Development (DBD) — Chonburi
Company registration, name reservation, and corporate amendments.
Revenue Department — Pattaya area
Tax ID, VAT registration, and corporate tax filings after setup.
Pattaya City Hall (for municipal licenses)
Signage, construction, and some local operating permits tied to your address.
Explore more
BOI Promotion
Tax holidays and foreign ownership benefits
F&B Business Guide
Permits after your company is registered
Business Hub
Networking events and economy stats
Work permit guide
Non-B visa and staffing ratio after your company is active
Immigration updates
90-day reporting and extension headlines for operators
Tax & legal news
Rule changes affecting foreign-owned operators in Chonburi