Can anybody guide me on how to apply for a hotel permit in Krabi area, what are the steps to take, where to do, what documents required, cost, etc. etc.? I heard that a hotel license/permit is required as soon as you want to open a guest house or a hotel having at least 4 rooms. Is a permit required even if the accommodation offers only rooms and no restaurant facility?

Hi Canjaa, the regulation as to when a business is a hotel and when it is not seem to vary across the country. The usual definition is that if the business has more than 10 guest rooms, then it is defined as a hotel. smaller establishments still need to obtain the correct documents of course, which include annual licences to sell local and foreign alcohol, and sale of cigarettes. These licences can be obtained by the OrBorTor office in your area.

The business itself must be operated via a recognised 'trading' vehicle where operating a hotel or guesthouse is listed in business documents. That trading vehicle could be a sole trader (buk khon tamada), a trading partnership, or a limited company.

Simon

Thanks Simon for your answer!