Want to start or expand your business in Thailand?A new policy for 2026 has come into effect! The registration process, conditions and fees have been adjusted, so it's important to understand them well in advance for a smooth "clearance". Don't worry, this guide will give you a rundown of the latest and greatest registration essentials in the most straightforward language.

I. The new 2026 regulations, what are the key changes?

This year's adjustments focus on three main areas, which are briefly summarized as follows: more standardization, more clarity and a slight increase in the threshold.

1. Clearer definition of company types: Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) are still the dominant choice, now that the boundaries of shareholder liability are more clearly stated - liability is limited only to the amount of capital contributed, and personal property is more secure. Share transfer rules for limited companies are stricter, adding stability, but for small-scale entrepreneurs, limited liability companies are still the preferred option.
2. Shareholder and director requirements tightenedFor shareholders, a private limited company requires at least 3 initiating shareholders (which can be reduced to 1 after incorporation); and for directors, at least 1, who need to have a certain level of business experience to ensure that the company can really operate.
3. Increased registered capital requirements: Registered capital needs to be sufficient to support business operations, and typically foreign companies require a minimum of 2 million baht of registered capital for each non-Thai employee applying for a work permit. The capital needs to be paid in within 6 months of the company's successful registration and is no longer just "nominal capital", which is intended to enhance the company's initial creditworthiness and resilience to risk.

If you have a domestic company registration (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, etc.), overseas company registration (such as the United States / United Kingdom / Thailand / Singapore / Malaysia / Vietnam / Indonesia / Japan / Dubai, etc.) Hong Kong identity applications and renewals, cross-border tax planning, shareholding structure design, compliance and risk control programs, etc. needs, you can add customer service (WeChat: qcygscszk, cell phone: 18676749275), we will customize your exclusive optimization program to help you comply with business, save money and increase efficiency!

Second, the latest registration full process five steps

We can think of the registration process as an organized break-in:

1. Level 1: Name Approval. Think of a unique Thai company name and submit it through the Ministry of Commerce website search. Duplicate, sensitive or illegal names will not be approved, and the result will usually be available in 3-5 business days.
2. Level 2: Preparation of documents (key link). Prepare a full set of documents in accordance with the new regulations, including articles of incorporation (specifying the scope of business, rights of shareholders, etc.), proof of identity and address of shareholders and directors (foreign documents must be translated into Thai and notarized), and proof of registered capital.
3. Level 3: Open a temporary account and inject capital. Open a temporary company account in a local Thai bank and deposit the registered capital of 2 million baht and above, the bank will verify the source of funds and issue a certificate of deposit.
4. Level 4: Formal submission of application. Submit all notarized documents and bank references to the Thai Ministry of Commerce. The official review will take about 10-15 working days, and any problems with the documents will be rectified.
5. Level 5: Receive a license and open for business. After passing the audit, you can receive the business license and the company is officially established! Subsequently you need to engrave the official seal, for tax registration, social security registration and other subsequent procedures.

If you have a domestic company registration (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, etc.), overseas company registration (such as the United States / United Kingdom / Thailand / Singapore / Malaysia / Vietnam / Indonesia / Japan / Dubai, etc.) Hong Kong identity applications and renewals, cross-border tax planning, shareholding structure design, compliance and risk control programs, etc. needs, you can add customer service (WeChat: qcygscszk, cell phone: 18676749275), we will customize your exclusive optimization program to help you comply with business, save money and increase efficiency!

III. Costs at a glance: where is the money spent?

For 2026 registration, the overall fee has increased slightly due to policy adjustments and consists of the following major components:

1. government fee: about 8,000 baht (up from earlier).
2. Notarized translation fees: Documents to be translated and notarized, approximately 2,000-5,000 baht.
3. Bank account opening fees: Approximately 1,000-3,000 baht, varying from bank to bank.
4. Agency Service Fee(If commissioned): Market price around 20,000-3,000 baht. A professional organization can handle the documents efficiently, avoid risks and save a lot of time and energy.

Tip: When choosing an agent, be sure to check their local qualifications and success stories.

IV. Important guidelines for avoiding pitfalls

1. Truth in documentation is paramount: In particular, shareholder-director information and proof of funds are more closely scrutinized under the new regulations, and false information can lead to outright dismissal or even legal risks.
2. Think long term in your business: It should be filled out as detailed and accurately as possible at the time of registration, and later additions are much more cumbersome than filling them out initially.
3. Bank account communication in advance: Different banks have different requirements for opening accounts for companies with foreign backgrounds, so consulting in advance can help you avoid being stuck at the door.
4. Contributed capital on timeThe new regulations require paid-in contributions within 6 months of registration, so be sure to complete them on time to avoid incurring penalties.

If you have a domestic company registration (Shenzhen, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, etc.), overseas company registration (such as the United States / United Kingdom / Thailand / Singapore / Malaysia / Vietnam / Indonesia / Japan / Dubai, etc.) Hong Kong identity applications and renewals, cross-border tax planning, shareholding structure design, compliance and risk control programs, etc. needs, you can add customer service (WeChat: qcygscszk, cell phone: 18676749275), we will customize your exclusive optimization program to help you comply with business, save money and increase efficiency!

V. Quick answers to frequently asked questions

1. Q: What is the maximum number of shares a foreigner can hold?
2. A: The new policy does not set a cap on foreign ownership in general sectors, but restrictions remain in specific sectors (e.g., telecommunications, land transactions, etc.). Usually, foreign capital may hold shares subject to the shareholder structure requirements.
3. Q: Can I handle it completely on my own?
4. A: Yes, but the new policy is full of details and the process involves a lot of Thai paperwork to communicate with the government, making it more challenging to do it on your own. Entrusting a professional organization is a common choice to increase the success rate and save time.
5. Q: What must I do every year after the company is formed?
6. A: There are two main events: the annual tax return (corporate income tax, VAT, etc.) and the financial statement audit. The audit must be done by a local licensed accountant in Thailand.

We hope that this updated 2026 guide will lighten the way for you to start your own business in Thailand. Each step may seem complicated, but when you straighten it out, you'll find that it's an organized journey with a clear goal in mind. Of course, the details of policies and processes are myriad, and everyone's situation is different. If you're seriously considering landing in Thailand or have questions about a particular aspect, I'd be happy to be your reliable localization partner. We can start with a free professional consultation to sort out a customized plan for you, avoiding the unseen "potholes", and making company formation a solid starting point for your business to take off. Feel free to contact me anytime to talk about your Thailand plans.