How to Get a Foreign Business License (FBL) in Thailand: Step-by-Step Guide

Foreigners who wish to own more than 49% of a company in Thailand and operate in businesses restricted under the Foreign Business Act (FBA) are required to obtain a Foreign Business License (FBL).

In this guide, we explain what an FBL is, who needs it, and how to apply — step by step.

---

✅ What is a Foreign Business License (FBL)?

A Foreign Business License is a special permission granted by Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce allowing foreign-owned companies to operate in sectors restricted to Thai nationals under the Foreign Business Act B.E. 2542 (1999).

Foreigners typically need an FBL if they wish to own more than 49% of a company operating in certain service or trading sectors that are reserved for Thai citizens.

---

✅ Who Can Apply for Foreign Business License?

Foreign investors can apply FBL if:

• You want to own a majority (over 49%) of shares in a Thai company.
• Your business activities fall under List 3: Businesses that Thai Nationals are Not Yet Ready to Compete with Foreigners of the Foreign Business Act, which includes:
  • Rice milling and flour production from rice and farm produce
  • Fishery business, limited to aquaculture
  • Forestry from replanting
  • Wood fabrication for furniture and utensils
  • Lime production
  • Accounting service business
  • Legal service business
  • Architectural service business
  • Engineering service business
  • Construction business, except: Infrastructure construction for public utilities or transportation with advanced technology and a minimum foreign capital of THB 500 million.
  • Brokerage or agency businesses, except specific cases (e.g., securities, commodities, services essential for affiliated companies, international business matching, etc.)
  • Auction businesses, except international trading auctions.
  • Internal trade of indigenous agricultural products
  • Retail of all types of goods where the total foreign capital is less than THB 100 million or less than THB 20 million per shop.
  • Wholesale of all types of goods where the capital per shop is less than THB 100 million.
  • Advertising business
  • Hotel business, excluding hotel management services.
  • Tourism business
  • Restaurant and food services
  • Plant breeding business
  • Other service businesses, unless specifically exempted by ministerial regulations.

---

✅ Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an FBL in Thailand

Step 1: Identify if Your Business Requires an FBL

• Review the Foreign Business Act’s restricted list to see if your business falls under controlled activities.
• Consult with experts like BRW to confirm if an FBL is necessary.

---

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Prepare a comprehensive set of documents, including:

• Company registration documents (e.g., certificate, list of shareholders).
• Detailed business plan and objectives.
• Financial projections and capital investment details.
• Technology transfer or skills development plans (if applicable).
• Market analysis and expected benefits to Thailand.

---

Step 3: Submit FBL Application to the Ministry of Commerce (MOC)

• File your application at the Department of Business Development (DBD) under the MOC.
• Submit all supporting documents in both Thai and English (depending on case).
• Pay the government application fee.

---

Step 4: Attend Interviews and Clarification (If Required)

• Authorities may request an interview or further clarifications about your business.
• Be ready to explain how your business benefits Thailand’s economy and employment market.
• BRW can assist in preparing you for this process.

---

Step 5: Wait for Approval

• The Ministry of Commerce will review your application, focusing on economic benefits, technology transfer, and impact on local competition.
• The review process usually takes 2 to 6 months, depending on business type and complexity.

---

Step 6: Receive the Foreign Business License (FBL)

Once approved, you will receive the official Foreign Business License, legally allowing you to operate as a foreign-owned company in Thailand.

---

✅ Benefits of Obtaining an FBL

• Own more than 49% of a Thai company legally.
• Operate in sectors restricted under Thai law.
• Gain official recognition and legitimacy from Thai authorities.
• Build confidence with investors and partners.

---

💡 How BRW Can Help You Get an FBL

The FBL application process can be complex and time-consuming. BRW – Boonrawee Co., Ltd. offers full-service support to help foreign investors secure an FBL smoothly and efficiently:

• Eligibility assessment and business analysis.
• Document preparation and translation.
• Liaising with Thai authorities on your behalf.
• Guidance through the interview process.
• Legal, tax, and regulatory compliance support.

---

📞 Contact BRW Today

Let BRW help you open your business in Thailand the right way.
👉 Contact us now for a free consultation on Foreign Business License applications.