Obtaining Your Tourism License in Thailand
Thailand's thriving tourism sector offers incredible opportunities. However, to legally operate a tour or travel-related business, you must secure a Tourism License from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). This is a mandatory requirement under the Tourism Business and Guide Act, designed to ensure high standards of service and safety for tourists.
For foreigners looking to enter this market, it's crucial to understand the legal framework. The Foreign Business Act governs foreign participation in the Thai tourism industry. The most common and compliant business structure is a Thai Limited Company, where Thai nationals hold a majority of the shares (at least 51%). The team at PS Law & Business is experienced in guiding foreign investors through the company formation process to establish a legally sound foundation for your tourism venture.
Types of TAT Licenses for Your Business
The specific TAT license you need depends on the services you plan to offer. The primary license categories are:
- Inbound License: For tour operators catering to foreign tourists traveling to Thailand.
- Outbound License: For travel agents arranging tours for residents of Thailand to travel abroad.
- Domestic License: For tour operators providing services for travel within Thailand.
- Specific Area License: For tour operators focusing their services within a particular province or designated area.
Key Requirements for a TAT License Application
The application for a TAT license requires careful preparation of documents and adherence to specific qualifications. Our legal team can manage this process for you, ensuring all paperwork is accurate and complete for a successful submission.
Company and Director Eligibility:
- Your business must be a registered Thai company.
- A minimum of 51% of the company shares must be held by Thai citizens.
- The majority of the company's directors must be Thai nationals.
- The authorized managing director must be a Thai national.
Essential Documentation:
While requirements can vary, a standard application package includes:
- A completed TAT license application form.
- Your company's registration documents (Certificate of Registration, Memorandum of Association, List of Shareholders).
- Copies of the ID cards and house registration books for all Thai directors.
- A map detailing your office's location.
- Photos of your office, both inside and out, clearly showing the company nameplate.
- Proof of office ownership or a valid lease agreement.
- A Power of Attorney if our firm is handling the application on your behalf. For more details on this, see our guide on Power of Attorney.
Security Deposits & Government Fees
A security deposit must be paid to the TAT as a guarantee for your clients. The amount of the deposit and the government fee for the license depends on the license type.
| License Type | Security Deposit (THB) | Government Fee (THB) |
|---|---|---|
| Inbound | 100,000 | 2,000 |
| Outbound | 200,000 | 2,000 |
| Domestic | 50,000 | 1,000 |
| Specific Area | 10,000 | 1,000 |
License Validity and Renewal
A TAT License is valid for two years. To ensure continuous operation, the renewal process must be started at least 30 days before the license expires. For assistance with renewals or any potential business disputes, our team is ready to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the TAT license application process take?
With all documents correctly prepared and submitted, the TAT license application process typically takes between 2 and 4 weeks.
Can a foreigner have 100% ownership of a tour company in Thailand?
Under the Foreign Business Act, 100% foreign ownership of a tour company is generally not permitted. The standard route is to form a majority Thai-owned company. Certain investment promotions, like those from the Board of Investment (BOI), may offer exceptions.
What are the penalties for operating a tour business without a license?
Operating a tourism-related business in Thailand without a valid TAT license is a serious offense that can lead to substantial fines and potential imprisonment.
Is a physical office required to obtain a tourism license?
Yes, a physical office located in Thailand is a mandatory prerequisite for the TAT to approve your license application.
