Thailand tour business licence
Organising tours, selling packages or bundling accommodation with guided trips in Thailand requires a tour business licence under the Tourism Business and Guide Act B.E. 2551 (2008). It is issued by the Department of Tourism, not the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT). Mixing up the two is a common first mistake.
1. Pick the category that matches the real business
Licences are split by area: single-province, domestic, inbound, and general (which includes taking Thais abroad). Each carries a different security deposit. Choosing a narrower category than the work you do risks operating outside your licence.
2. Foreign shareholders
Tour business is listed under the Foreign Business Act B.E. 2542 (1999), so a company that is half or more foreign-owned needs a Foreign Business Licence from the Department of Business Development first. Tour guiding is reserved for Thai nationals, so foreigners cannot guide tours themselves.
We check the shareholding structure before registration so it need not be changed later. We do not arrange nominee shareholding, which is illegal.
3. Documents usually needed
The definitive list is on the Department of Tourism application form. Most clients prepare:
- Company certificate with tour business among the objectives
- ID card and house registration copies of authorised directors
- Proof of office location with map and photos
- Security deposit per licence category (cash, bank guarantee or bonds as the Department allows)
- Certified translations where directors or shareholders are foreign
4. What we do
Company registration and objective amendments, a completeness check before filing, filing under your power of attorney, certified translation for foreign directors, and accounting and tax set-up after opening. If you plan to use a virtual office, check first whether the Department accepts it for a tour business.
How to work with us
Tell us the tour model (domestic, inbound or outbound) and the shareholding by LINE or email. We quote price and delivery after reviewing the details. Approval timing depends on the Department of Tourism's queue. The initial enquiry for a quote is free.
Frequently asked questions
Is the licence issued by TAT?
No. The Department of Tourism issues tour business licences; TAT handles tourism marketing.
Do I need a licence to sell tours online?
If you organise or sell tour services as defined by the Act, yes, even through a website or social media. Check your model with the Department of Tourism.
Can a foreigner open a tour company?
Foreigners can hold shares within Foreign Business Act limits; half or more foreign ownership needs a Foreign Business Licence, and foreigners cannot guide tours because guiding is reserved for Thais.
How much is the security deposit?
It depends on the licence category per Department of Tourism notice. We do not state figures on its behalf.
Do you guarantee the licence?
No. Approval is the Department of Tourism's decision. We make sure the file is complete and in the right category.
Can I use a virtual office address?
Check with the Department of Tourism first, as the office location may be inspected.
Do I need licensed guides?
Tours must use guides licensed for the type of work. See the Department of Tourism's rules.
What does it cost?
We quote after reviewing the details. The initial enquiry for a quote is free.
Request a quote
Call 083-2494999 · LINE @NYC168 · contact@nyclegal.co.th
Mon–Fri 09:00–18:00 · Sat–Sun 09:00–17:00