Weekly Recap: Structure Options for Foreign Investors

This week we explored the different business structures available to foreign investors. Here's your complete reference.

 

Structure Options Summary

Thai Limited Company

• Most common choice
• 49% foreign ownership limit (unless BOI/Treaty)
• Full operational capabilities

 

BOI-Promoted Company

• 100% foreign ownership
• Tax exemptions
• Best for tech and manufacturing

 

Branch Office

• Extension of foreign parent
• 3M THB capital requirement
• Direct profit flow to parent

 

Representative Office

• No revenue activities
• Market research focus
• Max 3 foreign staff

 

Control Mechanisms

• Preference shares allow control while maintaining Thai majority on ordinary shares
• Treaty of Amity gives Americans 100% ownership rights
• Real Thai partners are essential—never use nominees

 

Decision Framework

| Your Situation | Best Structure | |----------------|----------------| | Tech startup | BOI-Promoted Company | | US citizen, professional services | Treaty of Amity | | Market testing | Representative Office | | Parent company expansion | Branch Office | | Need Thai partner | Ltd + Preference Shares |

 

Coming Next Week

We'll preview Tax Planning:

• Thai tax overview
• Corporate vs. personal tax
• The 180-day residency rule
• Planning for tax season

 

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Related Service: Company Registration & Legal Services — Choose the right structure with expert guidance.