Planning to sell online in Thailand? As of June 2024, the rules for securing an e-commerce license in Thailand have shifted, with new exemptions and stricter timelines that every business owner must understand.

If you structure your business as a Thai sole proprietorship or partnership, you now have just 30 days from launching your first online sale to apply for an e-commerce license or risk fines. Registered companies and foreign branches are newly exempt, meaning the right legal setup saves both time and compliance headaches.

e-commerce license Thailand eligibility costs regulations online business launch

Understanding these updates is essential for a smooth launch and to prevent costly delays. Knowing exactly who needs a license, the documents required, and the penalties for mistakes helps you protect your business from day one.

Key Takeaways

  • E-commerce license required for sole proprietors: Only Thai individuals or partnerships need an e-commerce license in 2025, while all registered companies, Thai or foreign are now exempt.
  • Apply within 30 days of launching: Submit your e-commerce license application within 30 days of starting online operations to avoid fines or delays.
  • Prepare a complete document set: Gather all required documents, including business registration, ID, website details, and landlord consent, to ensure faster approval.
  • VAT registration triggered at 1.8 million THB revenue: Register for VAT promptly if annual revenue exceeds 1.8 million THB to maintain full tax compliance.
  • Foreigners face additional licensing and capital rules: As a foreign entrepreneur, you will likely need a Foreign Business License, minimum capital, and a serviced office to operate legally in Thailand.
  • Keep business information up to date: Update authorities immediately if your domain, address, or ownership changes to avoid compliance issues and possible fines.
  • Typical government fees range from 300-2,000 THB: Budget for filing, document certification, and translation costs, as well as additional legal or office expenses as needed.
  • Accuracy prevents costly delays: Double-check all forms, documents, and business details before submission, as incomplete or incorrect filings are the top reason for rejections and approval delays.

E-commerce License Thailand: Who Needs It

Which business structures require an e-commerce license in 2025?

Thailand’s latest e-commerce regulations require a license only for Thai individuals who operate as sole proprietors or partnerships, as of June 5, 2024.

For quick reference:

  • Thai sole proprietors and partnerships: License required within 30 days of launching operations
  • Registered companies (Thai/foreign, branches): License no longer required
  • Foreigners: Must still comply with company formation, capital, or Foreign Business License rules

Full requirements and exceptions are detailed by the Ministry of Commerce.

What regulatory changes impact e-commerce licensing in 2025?

As of June 2024, registered companies and branch offices are exempt from the e-commerce license. However, all businesses regardless of license status must still:

  • Register the business correctly
  • Obtain VAT registration if annual revenue exceeds 1.8 million THB
  • Secure industry-specific permits as needed

Non-compliance can result in fines or business closure, making legal updates critical for all operators.

Only Thai individuals operating as sole proprietors or partnerships require an e-commerce license in 2025. Regular checks of official regulations will help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure smooth online operations.

Eligibility & Documents for E-commerce License

Rules & Documents for Sole Proprietors/Partnerships

To obtain an e-commerce license in Thailand as a sole proprietor or partnership, Thai individuals must meet basic business registration requirements and apply within 30 days of starting online operations. The official deadline is strict, and late submission may result in fines.

Key documents include:

  • Valid business registration (sole proprietorship or partnership)
  • Tor. Por. form (e-commerce license application)
  • Thai national ID or passport
  • House registration document
  • Website details: domain name, payment methods, product/service info, launch date
  • Map of the business location
  • Landlord consent letter (if renting)
  • Power of attorney (if authorizing a representative)

Prepare and check all files against the district office checklist for a smooth initial review.

Requirements for Companies & Foreign Entrepreneurs

As of June 5, 2024, registered companies both Thai-owned and foreign branches no longer need a general e-commerce license.

However, all must still secure:

  • Business registration with the Department of Business Development
  • VAT registration if annual revenue exceeds 1.8 million THB
  • Industry-specific permits for products like cosmetics or food

Foreign entrepreneurs, in addition to the above, should consider:

  • Foreign Business License if majority foreign-owned
  • Minimum registered capital (often 2 million THB or more)
  • Use of a serviced office or local authorized representative to fulfill address and compliance requirements

Explore the latest foreign investment guidelines at the Thai Board of Investment to ensure your business structure is eligible.

Staying organized and up to date with regulatory changes will help you secure the right compliance, whether operating as an individual or company.

E-commerce License Application Steps

How to Apply & Submit Your E-commerce License?

Begin by collecting the required documents before applying for your e-commerce license in Thailand. Ensuring everything is ready will help avoid delays and resubmissions.

Key documents include:

  • Thai ID card or passport
  • House registration
  • Business registration certificate
  • Completed Tor. Por. application form
  • Website domain details
  • Map of business premises
  • Landlord consent letter (if applicable)
  • Power of attorney if using a representative

In Bangkok, submit your application to the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration. In other provinces, apply to your local District Office. Applications must be filed within 30 days of launching your e-commerce activity.

Carefully check that all paperwork is complete and accurate. Common errors include missing forms, wrong addresses, or incomplete website registration details.

Approval Timeline & Follow-Up Actions

Review times typically range from 15 to 30 days once the application is submitted.

After filing, check your application status with the office regularly. Be prepared to provide clarifications or missing information if requested by authorities. If your application is pending past 30 days, politely escalate with a formal inquiry.

If your application is rejected, address the cited deficiencies and resubmit promptly. Many applicants succeed the second time with a complete, corrected file.

Staying organized and responsive throughout the process speeds up approval and builds trust with regulators.

Ongoing Tax & Reporting Duties

After receiving your e-commerce license in Thailand, strict compliance is essential. Register for VAT if annual revenue exceeds 1.8 million THB. Secure a unique tax ID for your business and report income accurately.

Update authorities if you change any of the following:

  • Business website domain or design
  • Ownership structure
  • Registered business address

Obtain extra licenses if selling regulated products, such as:

  • Food
  • Cosmetics
  • Medical supplies

Protect consumers by following privacy laws, offering clear refund terms, and resolving disputes promptly. Failure to update business details or comply with VAT and licensing can result in fines or business suspension. Access the latest tax guidelines via the Thai Revenue Department.

Tips to Stay Compliant & Avoid Issues

Maintain organized compliance records and conduct regular internal audits. Use SaaS compliance tools to set reminders for reporting deadlines and monitor regulatory updates.

Frequent mistakes include:

  • Outdated or missing business information
  • Delayed VAT registration or payment
  • Overlooking sector-specific licensing

If unsure, seek advice from licensed legal or accountancy professionals to avoid costly enforcement actions, as seen in recent crackdown cases.

E-commerce License Costs & Common Errors

Fees, Ongoing Costs & Hidden Expenses

Government filing fees for an e-commerce license in Thailand typically range from 300 to 2,000 THB per application.

Additional costs may include:

  • Document certification (100-500 THB per set)
  • Official translation services (1,000-3,000 THB per document)
  • Power of attorney fees (if applicable)

Budgeting is essential:

  • Legal consultancy fees often start at 10,000 THB
  • Serviced office space and website domain registration can add 5,000-20,000 THB to initial expenses
  • Product licenses or annual fees for regulated goods vary by industry

Penalties for late or incorrect filings can exceed 1,500 THB and may result in application rejection or further fines.

Mistakes That Delay or Risk Approval

The most common errors include:

  • Submitting incomplete documents or forms
  • Missing the 30-day registration deadline after starting operations
  • Failing to register the correct domain name or business entity type
  • Inaccurate ownership disclosure

From 2022-2024, Thai authorities have increased enforcement, leading to website suspensions and fines for non-compliance.

Use a step-by-step checklist:

  1. Gather and verify all required documentation
  2. Double-check website domain and business registration details
  3. Conduct a pre-filing review or consult with a qualified professional

Careful preparation, early information gathering, and professional review can reduce approval delays and keep your business running smoothly.

Staying organized and informed protects your investment, prevents avoidable costs, and gives your e-commerce business the right legal foundation from day one.

FAQ: Thailand E-commerce License

Is There a Grace Period Before Registration?

You must apply for an e-commerce license within 30 days of launching online operations if you are a Thai individual (sole proprietor or partnership). Late filings can result in fines or administrative delays.

Key Foreign Ownership & Licensing Rules

Operating a Thai e-commerce site as a foreigner usually requires a Foreign Business License.

Alternatives include:

  • Structuring your company with a qualified local partner
  • Applying as a Board of Investment-promoted business
  • Using a nominee arrangement (not recommended due to legal risk)

Penalties for unauthorized foreign operations can include business suspension.

For more, visit Thai Board of Investment.

License Validity, Renewal & Rejection Steps

  • For individuals or partnerships, the e-commerce license does not expire as long as your details remain unchanged
  • Update your license if your business name, site, or ownership changes
  • Since June 2024, companies are exempt from this licensing

If your application is rejected, you can:

  • Correct errors and resubmit
  • Appeal with supporting documents
  • Seek guidance from a legal advisor

Common reasons for rejection include incomplete forms or missing proof of business address.

Conclusion

Securing your e-commerce license in Thailand is more than a compliance step, it’s your gateway to reliable, lawful business growth in a rapidly evolving market.

By preparing your documents early, double-checking your business structure, and monitoring regulatory updates, you can protect your venture and ensure every opportunity is within reach.

If the process feels complex or you need tailored guidance, contact us. Themis Partner streamlines every step so you achieve compliance with clarity and confidence freeing you to focus on what you do best: building your business.