If you are totally in love with Thailand and have a plan to launch your own business, you will be entering a mysterious world of permits, concessions and licenses. Registering a business in Thailand is best achieved by consulting with an established Thai law firm, as they can tell you whether or not you do need permits/licenses to operate.
Here are a few examples.
Liquor License
If you plan to open a bar, club or restaurant, you will need an alcohol license in order for customers to consume alcohol on the premises. In the event you plan to open a bar in Bophut, for example, talk to a Koh Samui attorney who can process the application with the relevant government department. The lawyer informs you what is required and for a small fee, your business can sell alcohol. Do not skip this most important step, as there are serious fines for those who do not have an alcohol license.
If you are planning on opening a convenience store and you wish to sell alcohol, you need a permit to do so. Certain restrictions apply; you are not permitted to sell alcohol to people under the age of 20 years, plus you cannot sell between the hours of 2-5pm. In the event your store is near a school, you might not be able to get an alcohol license.
Setting Up A Tour Company
If you wish to ride the wave of tourism by starting your own tour company, you have to obtain a TAT (Tourism Authority of Thailand) License in order to operate. Of course, prior to applying for the TAT License, your business must be registered with the Thai government and an established Thai law firm that handle that, as well as the TAT License application.
Thai Hotel License
If you are planning to open a boutique hotel on Koh Samui, you will need a hotel license, which is quite complicated. You will need the help of a local law firm that facilitates procuring a hotel license. You will probably have to attend numerous meetings and supply a ream of paperwork and documentation, including your business registration.
Importing Products
If you are planning to import edible products, you will need FDA approval and this is best handled by an experienced Thai lawyer. As you would expect, the Thai FDA has very stringent regulations in place for importing specific products and in order to be successful in your application, the products must fully comply. Categories include foods, drugs, narcotics, psychotropic substances, cosmetics and hazardous materials.
Medical Device Registration
If you are planning to import a medical device, you have to deal with the FDA to acquire a license. There are a total of 4 categories, from Class 1-4. The lawyer can assist you with the correct classification and process the application, keeping you informed every step of the way.
It might seem like a daunting task to obtain the permits and licenses, yet with the help of an experienced English-speaking Thai lawyer, you won’t have to worry about the legal aspects of your business.
