Restaurant License in Thailand

Here are the legal procedures set by local authorities in order to obtain

Step 1: Business Setup

1.Business Entity Registration

- Register your restaurant as a Thai company (Ltd.) or under your name if a sole proprietorship.
- Foreigners usually need a Thai partner (51% Thai ownership) unless using a BOI promotion or setting up in a Free Zone.

2.Obtain a Business License

- Apply for a "Business Operation License" (ใบอนุญาตประกอบธุรกิจ) at the Department of Business Development (DBD) or local district office.

Step 2: Restaurant-Specific Licenses

1. Food Establishment License (ใบอนุญาตสถานที่จำหน่ายอาหาร)

- Issued by the Public Health Office (สำนักงานสาธารณสุข) in your district.
- Required for any food-selling business.
Documents Needed:
- Business registration certificate - Lease agreement or proof of ownership - Floor plan & sanitation system details Health certificates for staff (if required)

2. Signboard License (ใบอนุญาตป้าย)

- Required if your restaurant has an outdoor sign.
- Apply at the Local Administration Office (เทศบาล or อบต.).

3. Alcohol License (If Serving Alcohol)

Type:

  • White License (เบียร์สด/ไวน์) – For beer/wine only.
  • Red License (สุรา) – For all types of alcohol (harder to get).
  • Issued by: Excise Department & local police.


Requirements:

  • Restaurant must be at least 300m from schools/temples (varies by area).
  • Operating hours limited (e.g., 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM & 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM).

4. Fire Safety Certificate

  • Issued by the Local Fire Department.
  • Requires a safety inspection of your restaurant.

Step 3: Health & Safety Compliance

✔ Kitchen & Sanitation Standards – Must meet hygiene regulations.
✔ Staff Health Checks – Some areas require food handlers to have health certificates.
✔ Garbage Disposal System – Proper waste management must be in place.

Step 4: Tax Registration

  • Register for VAT (if revenue >฿1.8M/year) at the Revenue Department.
  • Obtain a Withholding Tax certificate.

Step 3: Health & Safety Compliance

Time: ~1-3 months (depends on location & license type).

⚠️ Important Notes for Foreigners

  • If you’re a foreign owner, you may need a work permit to manage the restaurant.
  • Some areas (e.g., Bangkok, Phuket) have stricter rules than others.
  • Penalties for operating without a license: Fines, closure, or deportation.