Answereda year ago
What is the process for applying for a business visa in Thailand as an expat?
Does anyone have any experience of applying for a business visa? I will be looking at opening a business in Thailand but yet again Google really is not my friend with the conflicting information!
It says I must apply via a Thai embassy but goes on to say "you may be able to do this once in Thailand" May is not "you can" which is why I am here
Before asking Google I was under the impression that I can apply for a Non-B once inside Thailand but apart from that, I was hoping someone could run me through the process and any pitfalls to look out for.
The business will require premises so I will hire a solicitor to "rubber stamp" the contract so I dont get any unwelcome demands or changes by the landlord and will get them to check my paperwork is ready to submit
Foolishness will be punished by chinese burn and a nipple tweak 😁
It says I must apply via a Thai embassy but goes on to say "you may be able to do this once in Thailand" May is not "you can" which is why I am here
Before asking Google I was under the impression that I can apply for a Non-B once inside Thailand but apart from that, I was hoping someone could run me through the process and any pitfalls to look out for.
The business will require premises so I will hire a solicitor to "rubber stamp" the contract so I dont get any unwelcome demands or changes by the landlord and will get them to check my paperwork is ready to submit
Foolishness will be punished by chinese burn and a nipple tweak 😁
Answer summary
The process for applying for a business visa (Non-B) in Thailand can often lead to confusion, especially regarding where and how to apply. Many expats suggest starting the application in your home country, ideally at a Thai embassy or consulate, to avoid complications. However, there are some exceptions that might allow you to apply for a Non-B visa while already in Thailand under certain conditions. It's crucial to understand that opening a business typically requires a Thai partner who holds at least 51% of the business and necessitates hiring Thai employees. Many users recommend consulting with a reputable immigration agency or legal firm to navigate the complexities of Thai business laws and to ensure all paperwork is correct.
35 repliesnewest first
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Michael ********
You dont need a buisness visa to open a business
Wayne *******
OPGot everything I need 😃
1 question . . . why is it always the Americant's? 😁
1 question . . . why is it always the Americant's? 😁
Jim *******
For any serious business in Thai, no fcuk would ever come to here , FaceBook, seeking an advice.
Wayne *******
OP@Jim ******
did you really think I came here for serious business advice? 😂😂😂Jim *******
Business in Thai? Sure, but what business you may possibly set and lead if you fell down on Face Book advice?
John **********
I'd suggest you start by speaking with a Thai lawyer so first come for a visit as a tourist. Speak to them, work out what you need, and go from there. As a guide you can't own 100% so you need a Thai to own a minimum of 51% and as you appear to be wanting to work in the business you also need to employ 4 Thai nationals and pay them for every one work permit
Wayne *******
OP@John *********
Thanks. Yeah Im aware of the 4 thai rule and I cant work in the business unless I have a WP. So the only advice I need is . . . can I do that? Come as a tourist and turn the exempt into a Non-B
John **********
@Wayne ******
yes you can if you meet the requirementsWayne *******
OP@John *********
Thanks 👍
Chris *******
The "MAY" IS correct.
Okay first.
If you are "opening" a business you will need to be in Thailand to apply.
You will need a trustworthy agent/lawyer and in 90% of cases a 51% Thai partnership.
There are a few exceptions but most will not qualify.
You will need to setup the business structure.
You do not need a business visa to do any of this.
You will need a nonb and a work permit if you intend to physically work in the business.
In most cases then obtaining a nonb at a embassy outside of Thailand and entering with a 90 days nonb visa.
If you are using a "agent/lawyer" it's possible they may arrange all in country, at a cost of course.
The best path:
Tourist entries to setup business, structures, location and employees. All need these things even if it is just a "shell".
Okay first.
If you are "opening" a business you will need to be in Thailand to apply.
You will need a trustworthy agent/lawyer and in 90% of cases a 51% Thai partnership.
There are a few exceptions but most will not qualify.
You will need to setup the business structure.
You do not need a business visa to do any of this.
You will need a nonb and a work permit if you intend to physically work in the business.
In most cases then obtaining a nonb at a embassy outside of Thailand and entering with a 90 days nonb visa.
If you are using a "agent/lawyer" it's possible they may arrange all in country, at a cost of course.
The best path:
Tourist entries to setup business, structures, location and employees. All need these things even if it is just a "shell".
Wayne *******
OP@Chris ******
ThanksBrook ********
The second easiest way to lose money is to start a business in a country where you know nothing about the culture, the preferences, the laws or the market.
If you insist, I suggest you consult with a competent, experienced international law firm in Bangkok, such as Integrity Legal.
I am not affiliated with them in any way.
Thailand is fraught with scammers, agents and “lawyers” who will “help” you open a business. You can’t even trust the lawyers. In addition, there are many professions prohibited to foreigners and the laws are designed to discourage foreigners and promote Thais.
I’m not even going to go into all the hands that will be in your pocket.
Good luck. You will need it.
If you insist, I suggest you consult with a competent, experienced international law firm in Bangkok, such as Integrity Legal.
I am not affiliated with them in any way.
Thailand is fraught with scammers, agents and “lawyers” who will “help” you open a business. You can’t even trust the lawyers. In addition, there are many professions prohibited to foreigners and the laws are designed to discourage foreigners and promote Thais.
I’m not even going to go into all the hands that will be in your pocket.
Good luck. You will need it.
Chris *********************
@Brook *******
lecture again, give upWayne *******
OP@Brook *******
I love reading comments where the commenter presumes the OP knows NOTHING ABOUT ANYTHING because they have come on a forum and asked a question 😂Ive been going to Thailand for years and Im quite aware of Thai culture and the do's and dont's. Probably more than most! Especially ignorant and arrogant fools like you and Nek 😁
Ive run my own business here for 40 years.
Bless you, what do you do? Prop bars up? 😉
Brook ********
@Wayne ******
First, if you’ve run your own business here for 40 years, why would you need to turn to Facebook for advice because you already have the knowledge, visa and work permits. Second you accuse us of being ignorant, yet you know nothing about us.
Third, I don’t drink alcohol.
Wayne *******
OP@Chris ********************
Plenty like that on groups like this. There is a forum online called Asean Now which is riddled with people like him! Unfortunately, before you can block asshats, you have to experience them 🙂
Chris *********************
@Wayne ******
brook Powers, likes to give lectures on everything he knows nothing about, he thinks he knows ,meverything 🤣 just take no notice of anything he talks shite about more like Austin PowersWayne *******
OP@Brook *******
Run my own business HERE Im sat in the UK planningI accuse the ignorance because YOU KNOW NOTHING ABOUT ME yet commented like you did. You presumed so much in your response that was way off, like my experience in Thailand. I asked about opening a business FROM PEOPLE WHO HAD so why TF did ypu bother answering if you havent? Or at least have something positive to offer? Everything you said, I already knew!!! All I needed was infor on the process of opening a business from someone who had. YOU havent. Run along and find some other poor soul to patronise
David **********
@Brook *******
this is great advice. However, I have a question - what is the EASIEST way to lose money? (I have several guesses 😂)
Us *****
@David *********
have a Thai gfDavid **********
@Us ****
I think that's the downfall of many farangs 😂Brook ********
@David *********
invest in a Thai partner, or in a line of business you know nothing about.
Lucas **********
For business, go see an agent and just asked about it and what you have to do..
Michael ********
The only way to get the correct rules and proceedure to open a business in Thailand is to apply to your nearest Thailand Embassy in your own country, not Google or on a web site.
Phillip ******
Look at the Thai immigration website, you may not need a business visa, maybe just a work permit. It all depends on what you are intending to do. I have a restaurant and 2 bars but I im on a marriage visa with a work permit. Again it all depends on what you are doing so go straight to the real source and look at website or better still vist/call the Thai embassy in your home country.
Wayne *******
OP@Phillip *****
Cheers yeah I looked on the website but like most things I cant find a definitive answer, all pretty ambiguousIs it something I could commence once in Thailand? Like from a tourist visa?
Im old enough for a retirement but I cant work on that and I dont want to vegitate
I prefer to deal face to face so if its something I can commence once Im there I'll probably do that. I dont want to get there expecting to kick on only to be told I need to apply in my home country
Kool *******
@Wayne ******
what type of business do you plan on starting? You set the business up first legally, which isn't too difficult using an attorney, before you apply for the type B visa extension. The problems start when you apply for your work permit tied to your business. First you must have at least bt2million in registered capital in the business, and hire at least 4 Thai employees you pay wages, and social security on. Then on a regular business setup you can only own 49% of your business. The other 51% must be owned by Thais. One of the employees must be a licensed Thai accountant. You can not do your own accounting. If your business can qualify being set-up under the BOI, board of investment, then you can own all of your business, and eliminate the need for the Thai employees, except the licensed Thai accountant, you must have that no matter what. Not every business qualifies for the BOI. It mostly applies to branch offices of your already existing business in another country, and expanding into Thailand. Then, because any business for a foreigner is set up as a corporation, you must make a legitimate profit in the business within 3 ***
years, or the government dissolves the business. That is it in a nutshell. Siam-Legal.com is very good at business setups, and keeping everything legal.
Allan *******
Its been a long time since I got a visa. But you are better of getting a one year non B un UK from one of the Thai consulates. To open a business is another relevant mine field, concerning work permits, number of employees and company structure etc.
Wayne *******
OP@Allan ******
Thanks yeah I think its 4 Thais to 1 farang worker but my WP would be the only concern I wouldnt have any foreign workersDo you know if I have to apply from here or can I set the wheels in motion once Im there?
Joy ********
You say you went to Google. Did you go to the Thai immigration website? That's where the accurate information will be found. Even then, it can be confusing. It would probably be worthwhile to go to a visa agency. They can walk you through the steps and may even be able to file the application for you. If you are planning to open a business, trying to do the application yourself would not be the best way. One mistake and the whole application can be rejected. Also, the language barrier can be a problem. They do speak English, but in a complicated situation, it would be worth your while to use an agency. They know the laws, speak English and Thai; and can make sure all your paperwork is correct.
Wayne *******
OP@Joy *******
Yeah thanks I did wonder how complicated it might be so an agent would be a good ideaI googled which brought up the Thai immigration site and said more or less the same. Id rather rely on genuine experience of someone and as mentioned can discuss anything to be aware of, as you pointed out, an agent would be a good idea unless a solicitor can guide me as well as an agent as Id need a solicitor anyway for the contract. If they say they dont help with form filling Id then contact and agent 👍
Joy ********
I am not sure but I believe most visa agencies have law degrees. Being American, I am not sure about the term "solicitor" . We have attorneys and lawyers. Solicitors usually work for the government. I'm sure someone else will hop on the comments and clear up the definitions, if it matters.
Wayne *******
OP@Joy *******
In the UK we have defence and prosecution solicitors and if it goes to Crown Court where you have a jury, the case will be taken on by a barrister (the ones in the wigs)Us *****
If you're planning to open a weed shop, there is one on every corner.
Wayne *******
OP@Us ****
Roll your sleeve upActivity
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