M – F / 8:30 – 18:00

Facebook

FAQ

FAQs Relating to Business Operating Licenses in Thailand

Name: Magna Carta Law Firm
Address: 193/126-128, Nong Prue, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri, 20150, TH
Telephone: 038373735
Price range: $$

This FAQ provides a clear and practical overview of business operating licenses in Thailand, helping business owners understand when licenses are required and how compliance works.

What are business operating licenses?

Business operating licenses are permits issued by relevant Thai authorities that allow a company to legally conduct certain types of business activities. Not all businesses require additional licenses, but many regulated activities cannot legally operate without them.

Do all businesses in Thailand need operating licenses?

No. Every business must first be properly registered with the Department of Business Development (DBD). However, additional operating licenses are required depending on the nature of the business, especially for regulated or controlled activities.

Which types of businesses commonly require licenses?

Common examples include:

Food and restaurant businesses (Food License)

Required for businesses that prepare, sell, or serve food and beverages, such as restaurants, cafés, and catering services.

Bars, pubs, and alcohol sellers (Alcohol / Excise License)

Required for businesses selling or serving alcoholic beverages

Cigarette sales (Tobacco License)

Required for businesses selling tobacco products.

Tourism businesses (TAT License)

Required for tour operators, travel agencies, and other tourism-related services regulated by the Tourism Authority of Thailand

Entertainment venues (Entertainment License)

Required for businesses offering entertainment activities such as live music venues, nightclubs, or performance venues.

Massage and spa businesses (Massage / Health Establishment License)

Required for businesses providing massage, spa, or wellness services.

Import and export businesses (Customs Registration and Permits)

Required for companies importing or exporting goods through Thai Customs.

Manufacturing or factory operations (Factory License)

Required for businesses engaged in manufacturing or industrial production activities.

The exact license required depends on the business activity and location.

Are foreigners subject to additional licensing requirements?

Yes. If a company is majority foreign-owned and operates in a business category restricted under the Foreign Business Act, it may be required to obtain a Foreign Business License (FBL) or specific government approval before operating.

When should a business apply for operating licenses?

In most cases:

The company must be registered first, and
Operating licenses must be obtained before starting actual business operations.

Operating without the required licenses may result in fines, suspension, or closure of the business.

Can one business require multiple licenses?

Yes. A single business may require more than one license, depending on its activities. For example, a hotel may require a hotel license, food license, alcohol license, and entertainment license.

What happens if a business operates without the proper license?

Operating without the required license may result in:

fines or criminal penalties,
suspension of operations,
forced closure of the business.

Ensuring proper licensing from the beginning helps avoid costly disruptions.

Should professional advice be sought?

Yes. Licensing requirements in Thailand can be complex and depend on multiple factors such as business type, location, and ownership structure. Professional guidance helps ensure compliance and avoids unnecessary delays or risks.

Getting It Right from the Start

Business operating licenses are a critical part of running a company legally in Thailand. Identifying the correct licenses early — and securing them before operations begin — helps prevent fines, delays, and potential business interruption.

Need assistance with business operating licenses in Thailand? Our team can help determine which permits apply to your business, manage the application process, and ensure ongoing compliance. Contact us today to discuss your requirements and get reliable guidance from the start.

This FAQ has been updated and reviewed for accuracy on December 2025 by:

Jira Chaisiri (Attorney-At-Law and Adviser)

Licensed Attorney-At-Law, The Lawyers Council of Thailand
He has over 40 years of legal practice in financial institutions and constitutional public agencies.

Disclaimer: This FAQ is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Licensing requirements may vary depending on the type of business and specific circumstances.