This is NOT an official government website. We are an independent resource providing information and assistance to travelers.

Can I start a business on an ED visa in Thailand?

ED visa Thai language school business regulations Thailand visa types immigration advice work permit Chiang Mai expat guides

Apr 2, 2025

24 days ago

Freek **********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi everybody,

I am coming to Chiang Mai soon and I will attend a Thai Lanuage School for an ED visa. I've read it's impossible to start a business whilst on said ED visa. Is that true, or can a visa agent perhaps help with some legal loopholes I am unaware of? Thanks in advance!

289

views

likes

all likes

replies

images

users

TLDR : Answer Summary

An ED visa is primarily intended for those studying in Thailand. While you can attend a Thai language school on this visa, you cannot legally work or start a business. If you wish to operate a business, you would need a different visa and a work permit, which includes fulfilling specific requirements such as having registered capital and employing Thai nationals. Some users suggested exploring a business structure that fits such as using a type B visa required for work permits.

Pelle Eriksson★★★★★

Absolutely Bangkok's best service I highly...

recently on Facebook

Luca G.★★★★★

I used this agency for my DTV Visa...

recently on Google

Trusted Thai Visa Agent

OVER 100,000 EXPATS SERVED

#1 VISA AGENT IN THAILAND

Kool *******

You don't need an ED visa to actually go to school. You can learn Thai on the type B visa you need to get the work permit to run your business. You can not legally work on an ED visa. You'll also need at least bt2million in registered capital in the business to get your work permit, and up to four Thai employees, depending under what business structure it is set up under. At the very least you will need a licensed Thai accountant.

24 days ago

Michael ********

You can start a buisness but you cannot work there. For that you require a different visa and work permit and comply with everything that goes with it.

24 days ago

Reply to

Michael ********

Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else

... members · 60% approval rate

The Thai Visa Advice And Everything Else group allows for a broad range of discussions on life in Thailand, beyond just visa inquiries.

Join the Group

Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else

View the Conversation

Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else

Can I apply for an ED visa while on a visa exemption in Thailand, or do I need to leave the country?

2 comments