Solving My Visa Troubles By Starting a Company in Thailand
Posted by Stuart at 10:11 AM on October 26, 2006In addition to getting the condo renovations started, I have also been working on my visa issues. And I am happy to announce that I have finally have a plan that I am ready to put in motion to solve my problems.
(And yes, that was a lame attempt to explain why I haven't posted much to this site lately! :)
Anyway, I have finally decided to jump in and form my own company here in Thailand. I spoke to a lawyer yesterday and it looks like the actual process of starting a company and getting a work permit and business visa is not terribly difficult. It also helps that I am from the U.S. and the U.S.-Thai Treaty of Amity is still under effect.
The Treaty of Amity gives U.S. owned businesses a lot of special treatment here in Thailand, but it expires on December 5, 2006. So, I am moving ahead today to get all of the paper work done and the company founded before that expiration date. (And if you are an American living in Thailand and have ever even considered starting a business, I recommend you get it up and running ASAP to take advantage of the treaty's benefits!)
Many foreigners who live in Thailand set up "paper" companies, but I think I will do this for real. I am not ready to share all of the details yet, as I am working on the business plan now. But I'll just throw it out there that my company will be "creating educational software". I am sure I will share more details soon, or at least once after I make my way through the bureaucracy of several Thai government ministries.
Wow Stewart!
That sounds really great! It is just amazing how things progress. Right when you think "what am I going to do?" it happens. Like magic! I love it. I really like your idea of creating educational software, and hope it all goes smoothly and grows into something wonderful. Thumbs up! I cant wait to see your progress.
Kristy
Just wanted to wish you all the best in your forthcoming venture. You'll blitz 'em. Take care, and good luck.
I can picture a commercial a la "The video professor," but with Stuart...in Thai.
Good luck Stuart!
Hey Stu,
It's been a long while. I've started a company earlier this year, and it's been a great experience. Good luck with yours!
Hi Stewart,
I have read your posts for sometime and live in Bangkok myself. I am in the same position with my visa and need to come up with a plan. What was the cost for setting up the company under the U.S.-Thai Treaty of Amity and what legal firm did you use. I have been considering doing this but was going to wait until the new year so reading your post that this is going to end on the 6th of December is timely.
Thanks for your help,
Greg L
Stuart, that's a good way to go. All the best of success with the paperwork!
Hey again,
Good idea! I'm looking at starting a company here too but had no idea about the Treaty. Good call. I guess I'll get my ass in gear right now and start processing the paperwork (well, I ought to find a lawyer first I suppose ;)).
What kinds of costs are involved?
"Educational software eh?" Hmm, would it be teaching English online or anything like that?
Hi everyone! And thanks for all of the encouragement. I am very excited about the prospects, but I know I have a lot of work ahead of me.
For those of you who asked, I have been working with Sunbelt Asia. I recommend their services. They do a lot of work with foreigners for setting up companies and other legal services, so they know exactly what needs to be done.
For more information about setting up companies and visas and the costs involved (both lawyer and government fees), check out Sunbelt's excellent site at http://www.lawyer.th.com/
Way to go, Stuart Grant!!!!
Love, Sharum