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Andi Refandi
Andi serves as a Senior Account Executive on Emerhub’s global team.
Following a successful 2024, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is aiming to attract a record-breaking number of 40 million tourists in 2025 by focusing on niche markets such as wellness, luxury experiences, sports tourism, and honeymoons.
If you are a local or foreign investor planning to start a travel agency in this thriving market, it is important to understand the legal requirements and regulations to ensure compliance with local laws.
In this article, we will guide you on how to start your own travel agency in Thailand, including the key licenses and permits, common visas, and step by step process.
License and Permits for Starting a Travel Agency in Thailand
To operate a travel agency in Thailand, it is mandatory to obtain your tourism license from the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) license. This license is crucial for arranging and selling tours, booking accommodations, and distributing travel tickets.
There are 3 types of TAT Licenses in Thailand depending on your planned business activities:
| Type | Details | TAT Fees |
| Inbound Tourism License | Required for agencies that provide services to foreign tourists visiting Thailand. It allows the agency to operate tours, book accommodations, and sell travel packages specifically for inbound travelers. | THB 95,000 |
| Outbound Tourism License | Necessary for agencies that facilitate travel for Thai citizens going abroad. It enables the agency to organize and sell international travel packages and related services. | THB 145,000 |
| Domestic Tourism License | For agencies that focus on serving Thai tourists traveling within the country. It allows the agency to offer domestic tour packages and related services. | THB 245,000 |
Key Requirements to Secure Tourism License from TAT
Under the Tourism Business and Guide Act, you must meet the following requirements to apply for TAT tourism license:
- A majority Thai ownership is required, with at least 51% of shares held by Thai nationals. If the applicant is a foreign entity, it must be registered as a juristic person under Thai law.
- A local director’s signature is mandatory on the application, and must have specific signing authority related to the tourism license.
- Individual applicants must be at least 20 years old and must have a domicile or be a Thai resident.
- Applicants must not be bankrupt, mentally incapacitated, or have had their tourism license suspended or revoked within the last five years.
- Possess additional documents including:
- Company registration certificate
- Proof of office location
- Application form signed by a Thai director.
- Company registration certificate and objectives (not older than one month).
- List of shareholders certified by the Minister of Commerce.
- Memorandum of association certified by the Minister of Commerce.
- Copy of the director’s ID card.
- Office location evidence (photos and map).
- Security deposit depending on the license type.
Emerhub’s local experts will handle necessary submissions and help you secure the TAT tourism license for your travel agency in Thailand.
How to Start a Travel Agency in Thailand
To start a travel agency in Thailand, you need to register your business with the Department of Business Development (DBD) under the Ministry of Commerce. Here is a detailed overview of the registration process:
- Register your travel company with DBD – To ensure compliance, you must register your Thai travel agency as a Limited Company. Not only does it protect your assets against personal liability but it also permits foreign ownership to a certain degree. As a requirement, your company must have at least three promoters, each holding at least one share. Once you have selected a business structure, you can submit your company registration to the Department of Business Development (DBD).
- Secure a TAT license – ensure compliance set by the Tourist Authority of Thailand and submit your application together with all the necessary documents.
- Tax registration – After completing the business registration, obtain a tax identification number from the Revenue Department. If your annual turnover exceeds 1.8 million Baht, you must also register for Value Added Tax (VAT).
To facilitate the registration process, Emerhub will offer you expert guidance on selecting the appropriate business structure for your travel agency. Our local business incorporation experts will handle the business registration process with the Department of Business Development (DBD) on your behalf, ensuring that all necessary documents are prepared and submitted accurately
Common Tourist Visas in Thailand
As part of your services as a travel agency in Thailand, you must understand different types of visas for foreigners in the country. If you’re providing this service to your clients, it’s advisable to apply at least 15 working days before the intended travel date and account for processing time.
These visas facilitate both leisure and medical tourism in Thailand, accommodating a wide range of travelers seeking to enjoy the country’s attractions or receive healthcare services. Here are common types of tourist visas available:
| Visa type | Purpose | Requirements |
| Tourist Visa (TR) | Primarily for leisure travel, allowing tourists to explore Thailand.Can be issued for a single entry, allowing up to 60 days with a possibility of extension. | Valid passportProof of accommodationEvidence of sufficient funds (20,000 Baht per person), and a confirmed return ticket. |
| Medical Visa | For individuals seeking medical treatment in registered hospitals in Thailand.Allows up to 60 days with a possibility of extension depending on medical needs. | In addition to standard tourist visa documents, applicants may need to provide a letter from the hospital confirming the appointment or treatment. |
| Non-Immigrant Visa (O) | Used for various purposes, including visiting family or friends in Thailand or for medical treatment.Allows for longer stays compared to standard tourist visas and can be extended. | Similar documentation as the tourist visa but may also include additional proof depending on the purpose (e.g., family relationship documentation). |
To avoid delays or complications, Emerhub can help prepare all the documentation needed to apply for a tourist visa application. We can help manage communication with the Thai immigration authorities to streamline the application.
For more information, fill out the form below and we will put you in touch with one of our business incorporation experts!
