LegalStructure
Which Businesses Can Be 100% Foreign-Owned?
2026-01-09•Siam Advice Firm•Legal Analysis
Not everything in Thailand is restricted. In fact, many business types can be 100% foreign-owned without any special permits. Here's the complete list.
Automatically Unrestricted
These categories are NOT on the Foreign Business Act restricted lists:
Technology & Digital
- Software development
- Mobile app development
- Digital content creation
- Cloud services
- Cybersecurity
- AI/machine learning
Creative Services
- Graphic design
- Video production
- Music production
- Photography
- Animation
Export Business
- Manufacturing for export (80%+ exports)
- Trading companies (80%+ exports)
- International consulting
Professional Services
- International IT consulting
- Software licensing
- Remote digital services
With BOI Promotion
Even restricted categories become 100% foreign-ownable with BOI promotion:
- Any activity in promoted categories
- Digital services (Category 5.8)
- High-tech manufacturing
- R&D centers
- Regional headquarters
With Treaty of Amity (US Citizens)
American citizens can own 100% in almost all categories except:
- Communications
- Transportation
- Fiduciary functions
- Banking/finance
- Mining
The Pathway Matters
The same business can be:
- Restricted as a normal Thai company
- 100% foreign-owned with BOI promotion
- 100% American-owned with Treaty of Amity
Your structure choice determines your options.
Not sure which pathway fits your business? Schedule a consultation.
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