Business Licensing Service
How to Apply for a Food & Beverage License in Thailand
We assist food and beverage businesses in obtaining the proper license in Thailand so they can operate legally and comply with public health, hygiene, and safety standards.
Introduction
Businesses that prepare, sell, or distribute food and beverages in Thailand are required to obtain a Food & Beverage License from the relevant local authorities before commencing operations. This license ensures that food establishments meet public health, hygiene, and safety standards set by Thai regulations.
Food and beverage businesses such as restaurants, cafés, bakeries, food stalls, catering services, and food manufacturing facilities must obtain approval from the local Municipality or District Office, and in certain cases, the Thai Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Obtaining the correct license is an essential step for operating legally and ensuring compliance with food safety laws in Thailand.
UnionSPACE Corporate Services assists entrepreneurs and business owners with the preparation and submission of Food & Beverage License applications, helping businesses meet regulatory requirements and begin operations smoothly.
The Scope
Business eligibility and license type assessment
We review the nature of the food business and identify the correct license category, based on the business model, operations, and applicable regulatory requirements.
Premises and health compliance
We assess whether the premises meet required sanitation, kitchen, ventilation, storage, waste disposal, and safety standards before application submission.
Preparing and submitting the application
We assist in preparing the required documentation, completing government forms, coordinating with local health officers, and submitting the application to the relevant local authority.
License approval and issuance
Once approved, the business receives its official Food & Beverage License, allowing legal preparation and sale of food and beverages in Thailand, subject to renewal and ongoing compliance requirements.
Common food and beverage establishments that require licensing
Restaurants and cafés
Dining establishments serving prepared meals, beverages, and on-site customer service.
Bakeries and dessert shops
Businesses preparing and selling baked goods, desserts, pastries, and related food products.
Food stalls and takeaway outlets
Small-format food businesses that prepare or sell ready-to-eat food for takeaway or quick service.
Catering businesses
Food service providers preparing and delivering food for corporate, private, or event-based functions.
Beverage shops and juice bars
Businesses focused on drinks, juices, smoothies, coffee, tea, and related beverage offerings.
Food manufacturing or processing businesses
Operations involved in producing, processing, or packaging food products for distribution or sale.
Premises and health compliance requirements
Proper kitchen and food preparation areas
The premises should include suitable and hygienic areas for food preparation, cooking, and service operations.
Ventilation and waste disposal systems
Adequate ventilation and proper waste management systems are commonly required for health and sanitation compliance.
Clean water and sanitation facilities
The establishment should have a safe water supply and proper sanitation facilities for staff and operations.
Food storage and safety standards
Food storage facilities should be appropriate for maintaining hygiene, temperature control, and safe handling of ingredients.
Building safety and fire compliance
The premises should also comply with applicable building safety and fire prevention requirements.
Health and safety inspections
Local authorities may conduct inspections before approval to verify compliance with health and operational standards.
What we typically need from the client
Company registration documents
If the business is operated through a company, we usually require the company registration set.
Identification documents
Identification documents of the business owner, directors, or other responsible persons.
Company affidavit and shareholder list
Latest corporate records confirming the business structure and authorized persons.
Premises documents
Lease agreement or proof of ownership, together with the layout plan of the restaurant, kitchen, or operating area.
Photographs of the premises
Photos of the food business location, kitchen facilities, and operational setup are typically required.
Operational description and permits
Description of food and beverage activities and any existing business permits, if already available.
Additional documentation may be requested depending on the type of food establishment and local authority requirements.
Deliverables
Official Food & Beverage License
License issued by the relevant Municipality or District Office authorizing lawful food and beverage operations.
Confirmation of legal business operation
Confirmation that the business is legally authorized to prepare and sell food and beverages in Thailand.
Renewal and compliance guidance
Practical guidance on ongoing compliance requirements and annual license renewal procedures.
Ongoing Compliance
Maintaining hygiene and sanitation standards
Businesses must keep food preparation, storage, and service areas clean and compliant with public health requirements.
Proper food handling and storage procedures
Food must be handled, stored, and managed in accordance with applicable safety and sanitation standards.
Health inspections by local authorities
Businesses must allow inspections and comply with directions issued by health or local regulatory officers.
Annual renewal and continued compliance
The license must generally be renewed each year, and the business must continue meeting applicable sanitation and safety standards.
Failure to comply with these requirements may result in fines, suspension, or revocation of the license.