Regulatory Licensing Service
How to Apply for a Factory License (Ror Ngor 4) in Thailand
We assist investors and manufacturers in obtaining a Factory License (Ror Ngor 4) in Thailand so manufacturing operations can be established and operated in full compliance with Thai industrial regulations.
Introduction
Businesses that operate manufacturing facilities in Thailand may be required to obtain a Factory License (Ror Ngor 4) before commencing operations. This license is issued by the Department of Industrial Works (DIW), Ministry of Industry, and is required for factories that meet certain operational criteria.
Under the Factory Act B.E. 2535 (1992) and its subsequent amendments, factories are categorized based on their size, machinery power, and number of workers. Factories that operate machinery exceeding specific power thresholds or employ a significant number of workers must obtain a Ror Ngor 4 Factory License prior to operation.
The purpose of the license is to ensure that factories comply with regulations related to environmental protection, industrial safety, pollution control, and land use planning.
UnionSPACE Corporate Services assists investors and manufacturers in navigating the factory licensing process, ensuring compliance with Thai industrial regulations and obtaining approval from the Department of Industrial Works.
The Scope
Factory classification and eligibility assessment
We review the manufacturing process, machinery specifications, and workforce structure to determine whether the operation falls within the category requiring a Factory License (Ror Ngor 4).
Site and environmental compliance
We assess whether the factory site meets zoning, environmental, pollution control, safety, and industrial compliance requirements before the application is submitted.
Preparing and submitting the application
We assist in preparing the factory license application documents, layout plans, machinery details, and supporting compliance materials for submission to the Department of Industrial Works.
License approval and issuance
Once approved, the factory receives the official Ror Ngor 4 Factory License and may legally operate in Thailand subject to the conditions stated in the license and applicable industrial regulations.
Factory classifications under Thai regulations
Type 1 Factory
Small factories that do not require licensing but must still comply with the applicable operational regulations.
Type 2 Factory
Factories that must notify the authorities before commencing operations under the relevant industrial framework.
Type 3 Factory
Factories that require a Ror Ngor 4 License before starting operations, generally due to their machinery power or workforce size.
Factories that use machinery exceeding 50 horsepower or employ more than 50 workers typically fall under the Type 3 category and require the license.
Site and environmental compliance requirements
Industrial zoning compliance
The factory site should be located in an area that permits the intended industrial activity under applicable zoning and land use rules.
Environmental impact considerations
Depending on the type of manufacturing activity, environmental impact considerations may need to be addressed before approval.
Waste management and pollution control systems
The factory should maintain suitable waste treatment, pollution prevention, and control systems in line with Thai industrial requirements.
Safety measures and industrial hazard prevention
Appropriate workplace safety measures and industrial hazard prevention procedures are typically required before the license is granted.
Additional technical or environmental approvals
In certain cases, separate environmental, technical, or industrial safety approvals may be required before the factory license can be issued.
What we typically need from the client
Company registration documents
Company registration documents issued by the Department of Business Development and related corporate records.
Company affidavit and shareholder list
Corporate affidavit and shareholder information showing the legal ownership and structure of the factory operator.
Factory location and land ownership or lease documents
Documents confirming the legal right to use the land or premises for the intended industrial activity.
Factory layout and building plans
Layout plans and building drawings showing the premises, production areas, storage zones, and related facilities.
List of machinery and equipment
Detailed machinery and equipment information, including the power capacity and technical details of production systems.
Description of manufacturing processes
An overview of the production process, product output, industrial activity, and workflow of the factory operation.
Environmental protection and waste management plans
Supporting plans for pollution control, waste disposal, environmental safeguards, and related compliance systems.
Identification documents of directors and authorized representatives
Identification documents of company directors, signatories, and other authorized representatives involved in the filing.
Additional documents may be required depending on the type of manufacturing activity and environmental regulations.
Deliverables
Factory License (Ror Ngor 4)
Official Factory License issued by the Department of Industrial Works authorizing the approved factory operation in Thailand.
Authorization to legally operate the factory
Approval enabling the business to lawfully conduct manufacturing operations in accordance with Thai industrial regulations.
Guidance on regulatory compliance and factory operational requirements
Practical guidance on license conditions, industrial compliance duties, and ongoing factory operational requirements.
Ongoing Compliance
Maintaining industrial safety standards
Factories must continue maintaining workplace safety systems and industrial hazard prevention measures in accordance with the law.
Environmental protection and pollution control compliance
The factory should continue operating with appropriate pollution control, waste management, and environmental protection measures.
Allowing factory inspections by authorities
Authorities may inspect the factory to verify ongoing compliance with industrial, environmental, and safety requirements.
Reporting operational changes or factory expansions
Material changes to factory operations, production capacity, machinery, or site expansion may need to be reported or approved.
Maintaining machinery and equipment safety standards
The factory should ensure machinery and industrial equipment remain properly maintained and compliant with safety requirements.
Failure to comply with factory regulations may result in penalties, suspension, or revocation of the factory license.
Need help with your factory setup in Thailand?
UnionSPACE Corporate Services support
If your company plans to establish a manufacturing facility or industrial operation in Thailand, our team can assist with obtaining the Factory License (Ror Ngor 4) and helping your business comply with Thai industrial and environmental regulations.