Unlock Full Business Ownership with BOI Promotion
For foreign entrepreneurs and investors, the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) offers the most powerful legal structure available. Unlike a standard limited company, which is often restricted by the Foreign Business Act, a BOI-promoted company allows for 100% foreign ownership in eligible sectors.
At PS Law & Business, we specialize in guiding foreign investors through the complex application process. Whether you are a tech startup, a manufacturing plant, or a regional headquarters, our team ensures your application is strategically positioned for approval.
What is the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI)?
The Board of Investment (BOI) is a government agency under the Office of the Prime Minister. Its mission is to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) into Thailand. It does this by offering a suite of "promotions" (incentives) to businesses that align with Thailand's economic development goals, such as technology, innovation, and green energy.
A "BOI Company" is simply a Thai Limited Company that has been granted a promotion certificate by the BOI. This certificate acts as a golden ticket, overriding many of the usual restrictions placed on foreigners.
Key Benefits of BOI Promotion
Securing a BOI promotion transforms the landscape of doing business in Thailand. The benefits are divided into tax and non-tax incentives:
| Incentive Type | Benefit Description |
|---|---|
| 100% Foreign Ownership | The ability to own 100% of the company shares without needing a Thai partner, even in restricted sectors. |
| Tax Holidays | Exemption from Corporate Income Tax (CIT) for up to 13 years, depending on the business activity and technology level. |
| Land Ownership | Permission for the foreign company to own land in Thailand for industrial or office use—a right otherwise strictly reserved for Thai nationals. |
| Visa & Work Permits | Access to the "One Stop Service" center, allowing for expedited processing (often within 4 hours) of visas and work permits for foreign experts. |
| Import Duty Exemptions | Waivers on import duties for essential machinery and raw materials used in production. |
Eligible Business Activities
Not every business qualifies for BOI promotion. The BOI currently focuses on sectors that drive innovation and sustainability. Key eligible categories for 2025 include:
- Agriculture & Biotechnology: Advanced farming, food additives, and plant breeding.
- Advanced Manufacturing: Automation, machinery, and electric vehicles (EV).
- Digital & Creative Industries: Software development, e-commerce platforms, and cloud services.
- Medical & Wellness: Medical device manufacturing and health services.
- Public Utilities: Renewable energy production and waste management.
If you are unsure if your business qualifies, please review our guide on Foreign Business Licenses or contact us for a preliminary assessment.
The BOI Application Process
Obtaining BOI promotion is a rigorous process that requires detailed preparation. We handle every step for you:
- Feasibility Study: We analyze your business plan against the current BOI eligible activities list to determine your likelihood of success.
- Application Submission: We prepare the comprehensive application forms, including financial projections and manpower plans, and submit them via the e-Investment system.
- BOI Interview: You will be invited to present your project to BOI officers. Our lawyers will prep you and attend the interview to ensure clarity.
- Project Approval: Approval timelines vary by investment size, typically taking 40 to 90 working days.
- Company Registration: Once approved, we proceed with registering your Limited Company and issuing the BOI certificate.
Why Choose PS Law & Business?
Applying for BOI promotion involves navigating bureaucratic hurdles and strict compliance requirements. A rejected application can delay your launch by months.
- Expert Insight: We understand exactly what BOI officers are looking for in a business plan.
- Full Service: From the initial application to obtaining your Visa and Work Permit under BOI privileges, we handle it all.
- Transparent Pricing: We offer clear, fixed fees for our BOI services so you can budget effectively.
FAQ: BOI Company Registration
1. What is the minimum capital requirement for a BOI company?
Generally, the minimum investment requirement is 1 million THB (excluding the cost of land and working capital). However, for certain knowledge-based services, this is based on annual salary expenses rather than capital investment.
2. Can a small business apply for BOI?
Yes, provided the business activity falls under an eligible category. The BOI promotes projects based on their value to the Thai economy, not just their size.
3. How long does the application take?
The consideration period depends on the investment size. Projects under 200 million THB are typically processed within 40 working days after the application is deemed complete.
4. Do I need a Thai partner for a BOI company?
In most promoted sectors, you do not need a Thai partner. You can hold 100% of the shares. However, specific industries identified in "List 1" of the Foreign Business Act may still require 51% Thai ownership.
Further Reading
- Official BOI Eligible Activities List - The official government list of promoted sectors.
- A Guide to the Board of Investment (PDF) - Comprehensive guide provided by the Thai government.
