A friend of mine called in at the Labour Department in Phuket to renew his work permit last week. This time he was asked to produce a TAT license for his company, along with the usual papers. His company has TAT registration, so for him it was not a problem.

There are many freelance dive instructors here in Phuket who run small companies/limited partnerships, pay taxes, etc, to legitimise their activities and most importantly get work permits.

The question is as to whether they are all now going to be asked for TAT registration as a condition for renewing work permits? As I understand it, you require an actual shop/office as well as your company sign, to get even the minimum level 10,000 Baht bond TAT registration.

There are many freelance dive instructors here in Phuket who run small companies/limited partnerships,

hi Can anyone explain the requirements for partnership that are different to company registration?

Thanks

david

There are many freelance dive instructors here in Phuket who run small companies/limited partnerships,

hi Can anyone explain the requirements for partnership that are different to company registration?

Thanks

david

My understanding is that Limited partnerships must be registered and are a Thai legal entity. A partnership can comprise of a foreigner plus one or more Thai person, but the Thai must be the director. One or more partner's liability is limited to the amount of investment in the company and the other partner's liability is unlimited. There are rules for the amount of paid up capital required in the bank and work permits that can be issued.

However Limited companies, which are also Thai legal entities, have more complex procedures than partnerships, both for formation and operation. They require a minimum of seven shareholders, with foreign ownership restricted to a maximum of 49%. Directors do not have to be shareholders or Thai nationals.