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What are the options for setting up a self-employed company for online teaching in Thailand?

Self-Employment in Thailand Teaching English Abroad Visa Regulations DTV Visa Tax Registration in Thailand Working with International Platforms

May 13, 2025

25 days ago

Matthew ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi all,

I am teaching business English on Preply, an online English language teaching platform. Has anyone any experience setting up in Thailand a self employed company?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user is seeking advice on establishing a self-employed company in Thailand while teaching English online through Preply. There are discussions regarding the feasibility of doing so, especially when working remotely and the implications of Thai ownership laws. Additionally, suggestions include using a DTV visa and tax considerations. The user is also interested in connecting with others who might have similar experiences.

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Matthew ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi all,

Big picture.

I was wondering if anyone else has gone down the self employed company structure route in Thailand, if they are teaching on an international platform?

25 days ago

Matthew ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Thanks for your info guys, much appreciated.

I am sure there are others in the same position as me.

My personal situation is as follows;

I am registered to pay tax in Thailand.

I have lived here years and have a Thai wife who could own 51% of the shares.

If I get a DTV, I think I have to go out and come back every six months, and I still have to pay Thai tax. Its a reasonable option.

I was wondering if anyone else is teaching using an international platform and has gone down the self employed route?

25 days ago

John **********

@Matthew *******

your problem will be getting a work permit to allow you to work in Thailand if you go down this route. As you're married to a Thai you could get a Non-O visa based on marriage which does allow you to hold a work permit but you also need to employ 2 Thais full time and pay them which I'm guessing would not be worth it. The DTV is designed for remote work, you are not meant to work remotely on the Non-O although people do they keep it quiet though

25 days ago

Andi ***********

Matthew Chevis If you go to the main DTV group on FB you will find posts from self employed teachers documenting their success obtaining a DTV.

25 days ago

Reply to

Andi ***********

There are Preply teachers in Thailand working online via the DTV. That's your best option.

25 days ago

Brandon ************

That doesn't make sense. You work remotely, there are visas for that. Why would you try to setup a company in Thailand when you're not actually working for Thai clients. And unless you're American, you can only own 49% of a company in Thailand, while Thai people must own 51%.

25 days ago

Matthew ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi Brandon,

Just to qualify my position a bit.

I have a Thai wife who could own 51%.

My tax liability would be very reasonable compared to Falangland.

Thanks for your thoughts

25 days ago

Arpan ******

@Brandon ***********

What other options does he have?

25 days ago

Matthew ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Thanks Brandon,

It just seems like a hassle to go in and out every six months.

And I still have to pay Thai tax.

25 days ago

Brandon ************

@Matthew *******

the remote worker LTR is tax exempt. But it has a pretty high income requirement.