Start with the idea, the legal form and whether you want investment incentives.

• Describe your business activity — some activities are regulated or restricted for foreign ownership.
• Choose a structure: limited company, branch office or representative office.
• Check foreign-ownership rules for your sector, and whether you qualify for BOI incentives (Board of Investment).
• Prepare a simple business plan and budget for set-up and the first year.

Bangkok needs a registered office address. Co-working or serviced offices are a flexible start.

• Pick a business district that suits your customers and team.
• Compare office, serviced office and co-working options and rents.
• Choose a company name and check that it is available with the Department of Business Development (DBD).

Registration is handled by the Department of Business Development.

• Prepare the documents for the company (name, objectives, capital, directors and shareholders).
• Submit the registration to the DBD (dbd.go.th).
• Keep the registration certificate — banks and agencies will ask for it.

After registration, set up your tax and legal obligations.

• Register with the Revenue Department (RD) for a tax ID, and for VAT when your revenue reaches the registration threshold.
• Obtain any business licences for regulated activities, and local permits from the district office where the business is located.
• Register your employer account with the Social Security Office (SSO) before hiring staff.
• Open a corporate bank account — requirements vary by bank.

Foreign staff need the right visa and a work permit before they start.

• Arrange the visa and work permit for foreign employees — the Department of Employment issues work permits (DOE).
• Help new arrivals with housing, banking and healthcare.
• Plan regular accounting, tax filings and annual financial statements.

With the foundations in place, focus on customers, partners and growth.

• Explore BOI incentives if you plan to expand or invest in targeted industries.
• Follow investment news and market insights.
• Join local business networks and events.