Since 1 January, 2026, the Department of Business Development (DBD) has enforced a series of administrative orders that systematically dismantle the era of passive nominee shareholding[reference:0]. This shift from form-based to substance-based verification fundamentally alters how companies are registered, amended, … Read More
Foreign Investment
A Critical Examination of Freehold and Leasehold Condominium Ownership for Foreign Nationals
The intersection of foreign property ownership and succession rights in Thailand presents a complex legal landscape. For the foreign investor or retiree seeking to acquire a condominium in the Kingdom, the distinction between freehold and leasehold tenure is not merely … Read More
Thailand Intensifies Crackdown on Nominee Shareholders
A nominee shareholder arrangement occurs when a Thai national holds shares in a company on behalf of a foreigner in order to circumvent foreign ownership restrictions under the Foreign Business Act. Such arrangements are illegal under Sections 36 and 37 of the Act and can result in criminal penalties for both the Thai nominee and the foreign beneficiary. … Read More
The End of the Filing Formality: Thailand’s New Front in Registration Scrutiny – Key Changes for Foreign Investors in 2026
For many years, the incorporation of Thai companies was regarded primarily as a routine compliance exercise. While Thai law has long prohibited nominee arrangements under the Foreign Business Act (FBA) and related legislation, substantive scrutiny of ownership structures often occurred … Read More
A Practical Guide to Joint Ventures in Thailand: Key Legal Considerations for Foreign Investors
Thailand’s strategic location and economic incentives make it an attractive destination for foreign investment. However, navigating its regulatory landscape requires careful planning, particularly when establishing a joint venture (JV), commonly referred to as a “Thai Majority Company”. This guide synthesises … Read More