Thailand Hotel and Homestay License

Here’s everything you need to know about obtaining the appropriate license.

1. Understanding the Different Types of Licenses

Hotel License
If you rent out even one room on a daily basis, you must obtain a hotel license.
This is a legal requirement to ensure that the property meets safety and operational standards set by Thai authorities.
A hotel license is mandatory for any establishment offering lodging on a daily basis, regardless of its size.

Homestay License
For those offering a homestay experience, the requirements differ slightly.
A homestay is typically a smaller, family-operated lodging option, often in a private home.
While the regulations are somewhat less stringent than those for hotels, obtaining a homestay license is still necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of your guests.

Private Houses Listed on Airbnb and Booking.com
If you are renting out your private house or apartment on platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com, you must comply with local regulations.
In Thailand, such properties are generally required to obtain either a hotel or homestay license, depending on the nature and frequency of the rentals.
Listing a property on these platforms without the proper license can result in fines and legal action.
At SiamConsult, we can help you determine the correct license for your situation and guide you through the application process.

Exemptions for Residential Buildings
If your property is a residential building with no more than four rooms and fewer than 20 guests, you may not need a hotel license.
However, you still need to notify local authorities and have an inspection to ensure the property meets necessary criteria.
At SiamConsult, we can assist you in handling this process correctly to avoid potential issues down the road.

2. Required Documents for Applying for a Hotel or Homestay License

Applying for a hotel or homestay license in Thailand involves providing a comprehensive set of documents to ensure that your property meets all required standards, from construction safety to location suitability.
Here’s what you’ll need:

• Construction Permit: A permit verifying that the building meets all structural and safety requirements.
  
  
• Interior Map: A detailed layout of the hotel’s or homestay’s interior spaces, showing room sizes, exits, and facilities.
  
  
• Landlord Documents: Proof of property ownership or a lease agreement if the property is rented.
  
  
• Location Map: A map demonstrating that the property is not within close proximity to schools, temples, or other restricted areas.
  
  
• Company Documents: Official business registration and related paperwork, such as the company’s certificate of incorporation and shareholder details.
  
  

Only a Thai director is authorized to sign the application and other related documents.
Additionally, once the hotel or homestay license is granted, Thai law mandates that at least one manager be appointed to oversee the operations.

SiamConsult is here to clarify and assist, helping you understand the roles and responsibilities involved to set your business up for success.

3. Types of Licenses Available in Thailand

Thailand offers various types of licenses tailored to different business models.
Choosing the right one is essential, as it determines what activities your establishment can legally undertake.
Here are the options:

• Basic Hotel and Restaurant License
  – Application Fee: 20,000 THB
  – Ideal for: Hotels that also provide dining services.
  
  
• Hotel, Restaurant, and Seminar Rooms License
  – Application Fee: 30,000 THB
  – Suitable for: Establishments offering accommodation, dining, and facilities for seminars or meetings.
  
  
• Hotel, Restaurant, Seminar Rooms, and Entertainment Business License
  – Application Fee: 40,000 THB
  – Best for: Hotels that also offer entertainment services such as a nightclub or live performances.
  
  
• Homestay License
  – Application Fee: Variable depending on the size and nature of the homestay.
  – Required for: Family-operated lodging options within a private residence.
  
  

There is a modest annual charge of 80 THB per room for hotels to cover ongoing administrative costs.
These fees help ensure that all operations remain compliant with local regulations, contributing to a safe and thriving hospitality environment.

4. License Renewal

Once you’ve secured your hotel or homestay license, remember that it must be renewed every five years, with the renewal fee set at half the original government fee.
At SiamConsult, we recommend starting the renewal process early to avoid any disruptions in your business operations.
We can help you stay on top of deadlines and manage all the necessary paperwork, so your business continues to run smoothly.

5. Understanding the Timeline for Obtaining a License

Here is a typical timeline for obtaining a hotel or homestay license in Thailand:

• Construction License Application
  – Where: District Office
  – Signed by: Engineer or Architect
  – Timeframe: Approximately 5 working days
  
  
• Submission at Provincial Office
  – Purpose: To forward the application to the relevant authorities
  – Timeframe: Around 10 working days
  
  
• Inspection and Approval
  – By: Health, Environmental, and Construction Authorities
  – Process: Each authority must inspect and approve the building
  – Timeframe: Typically 90 working days
  
  
• Issuance of License
  – Final Step: After all approvals, the license will be issued
  – Timeframe: Between 15 to 30 working days
  
  

Total Estimated Time: Approximately six months
This timeline may seem long, but with careful planning and our expertise, we can help streamline the process.
At SiamConsult, we’ll keep you informed every step of the way, so there are no surprises.

6. Transferring an Existing Hotel or Homestay License

If you’re acquiring an existing hotel or homestay business, transferring the license to your name (whether as an individual or company) is essential.
This process includes submitting your fingerprints (or those of the company director) at the government office.
The good news is that there is no government fee associated with transferring a license.
At SiamConsult, we specialize in making this transition as smooth as possible.
We’ll handle the paperwork and guide you through the legalities, so you can focus on running your business.

7. Short-Term Rentals: Staying Compliant with Thai Regulations

When renting out your private property through platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com, it’s essential to stay compliant with Thai regulations.
Properties rented out frequently and on a short-term basis are generally required to have either a hotel or homestay license.
Failing to obtain the proper license can result in significant fines and legal action.
Additionally, it’s important to ensure that your property meets all safety and operational standards, similar to those required for hotels and homestays.

At SiamConsult, we can help you navigate the specific regulations applicable to short-term rentals and ensure that your property is fully compliant, allowing you to operate legally and confidently.

Why Choose SiamConsult?

At SiamConsult, we understand that navigating the regulatory landscape in Thailand can be challenging.
That’s why we’re dedicated to making the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible for you.

Here’s why you should choose us:

• Personalized Service: We offer tailored solutions to meet your unique needs and business goals.
• Clear Communication: We break down complex regulations into easy-to-understand steps, ensuring you’re always informed.
• Local Expertise: With over 15 years of experience, we know the ins and outs of Thai law and have strong relationships with local authorities.
• End-to-End Support: From the initial consultation to ongoing compliance, we’re with you every step of the way.
  
  
  

Ready to Get Started?

We’re here to help you make your hotel or homestay dream a reality!
Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand, we have the expertise to guide you through the process.

Contact us today, and let’s begin your journey to success!

Contact Us

Phone: +66 82 419 1993
Email: info@krabi-accounting-law.com
Website: krabi-accounting-law.com
Address: 88/24 Hemanthon Road, Pak Nam, Krabi 81000

We look forward to helping you navigate the exciting process of starting or growing your business in Thailand.
Let’s get started today!