Legal Updates by Siam Legal
Legal Updates by Siam Legal
Siam Legal, one of our corporate members, has shared its Legal & Immigration Updates to TNCC, providing valuable insights into recent developments that may be relevant to you and your organisation. The eight developments range from Immigration & Visa, to Corporate & Investment, as well as Data & Digital. These updates aim to keep you and your organisation informed of the latest developments in Thai legal regulations and immigration policies, particularly those that may affect your business operations and workforce.
Immigration & Visa
- Deportation: New Referral Procedures Now in Force
The Prime Minister’s Office Regulation on Deportation B.E. 2569 (2026) took effect on 28 August 2026, establishing procedures for referring cases to the Minister of Interior. Even offences resulting in fines or suspended sentences may trigger a referral, although the Minister retains discretion. Foreigners may appeal an order to the Prime Minister within seven days of notification, which suspends removal. Read the full article here.
- Destination Thailand Visa: Stricter Application Requirements Introduced
Effective 31 August 2026, Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) applicants must provide a criminal record certificate, and embassies may require proof of permanent residence. Requirements vary by mission, so applicants should check with the relevant Thai embassy or consulate before applying. Read the full article here.
- Immigration: Thailand Reduces Visa Exemption Period to 30 Days
From September 2026, the 60-day visa exemption has been replaced with a 30-day period for nationals of 60 countries and territories. Visa-exempt travellers are limited to two land-border entries per calendar year. For Norwegian nationals, the visa-exempt stay is reduced from 60 to 30 days, so Norwegian companies arranging business visits should review visa requirements in advance. Read the full article here.
Corporate & Investment
- Corporate Registration: DBD Expands Digital Registration Procedures
Since 1 July 2026, new partnerships and limited companies must be registered through the DBD Biz Regist online system. From 1 November 2026, online registration will also become mandatory for changes to directors, shareholders, registered addresses and share capital, subject to exceptions. Read the full article here.
- Foreign Business Act: More Services Exempt from Licensing
Two ministerial regulations published on 28 August 2026 expand the activities that foreign-owned companies may undertake without a Foreign Business Licence, including certain financial and telecommunications services and services between related companies. Hotels, tour operators, restaurants, souvenir shops, sports services and language schools remain restricted. Read the full article here.
- Thailand FastPass: Accelerating Foreign Investment
Thailand FastPass aims to streamline approvals and reduce approval periods by approximately 20–50%, with a target of Baht 900 billion to Baht 1 trillion in actual foreign investment. Projects granted FastPass status must undertake at least 20% of their committed investment within six months. Read the full article here.
Data & Digital
- PDPA: Consent May Stop Being the Default
A proposed amendment to Section 24 of Thailand’s Personal Data Protection Act would replace the consent-focused framework with seven equal lawful bases for processing personal data, aligning more closely with the EU GDPR. It remains a proposal, but businesses should review their lawful bases and handling of access requests. Read the full article here.
- Computer Crime: Expedited Court Takedowns of Online Content
A notification effective 18 July 2026 introduces an expedited procedure for court-ordered removal or suspension of online content in urgent cases. Online platforms, e-commerce businesses and advertisers may face faster takedown orders and should review their content policies. Read the full article here.
About Siam Legal:
Siam Legal International is a full-service law firm in Thailand, providing comprehensive legal services to local and international clients. With over 16 years of experience and offices across Thailand, the firm specialises in corporate law, property, family law, immigration, and civil and criminal litigation. These updates aim to keep you informed of the latest developments in Thai legal regulations and immigration policies that may affect your business operations and workforce.
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