Chiang Mai Real Estate for Foreign Entrepreneurs Setting Up a Business in Thailand
Chiang Mai is attracting growing numbers of foreign entrepreneurs with its low costs, growing markets, and excellent quality of life. This article covers everything foreign business owners need to know about property and establishing themselves.
Why Chiang Mai Appeals to Foreign Entrepreneurs
Business operating costs 30-40% below Bangkok: office rent, staff salaries, and cost of living are all significantly lower
Both domestic and international markets: suitable for diverse business types
Strong digital infrastructure: fast internet, abundant co-working spaces, available tech talent
Business Visas for Foreign Nationals
Non-B (Business Visa): For those employed or running a business in Thailand — requires registered company and Work Permit
Thailand SMART Visa (Tech & Talent): For BOI-qualified startups — 4-year validity, Work Permit exemption in some cases
LTR Visa Business Track: For investors in Thailand — 10-year validity with multiple privileges
Company Structure Options
Thai Limited Company: Foreigners hold maximum 49% — requires 51% Thai shareholders
BOI-Promoted Company: BOI approval allows 100% foreign ownership in specified industries — land holding rights in some cases
Branch Office / Representative Office: Extension of a foreign parent company
Accommodation Timeline
First period (1-6 months): Serviced Apartment — THB 20,000-50,000/month — flexible, full service
Mid period (6 months-2 years): Condo or house rental — THB 15,000-40,000/month — better value, more private
Long-term (2+ years): Buy Freehold Condo — reduces ongoing costs while building investment
Office Space Options
Co-working Space: THB 3,000-12,000/month — for early-stage startups and remote teams
Serviced Office: THB 10,000-30,000/month — for companies needing a registered address and meeting rooms
Private Office lease: THB 15,000-60,000/month — for established teams needing permanent space
Best Office Locations
Nimman / Huay Kaew: Tech startups and creative agencies — innovation atmosphere
Superhighway: B2B companies and mid-sized firms — parking, accessibility, moderate rent
Warorot / Chang Klan: Tourism-facing businesses — central location, customer access
MORE Value. MORE Trust. Always.
Contact us today for a free consultation:
Line: @morecm | www.morepropertycm.co.th
Aurakanya: +66 83-236-9428
Eknarin: +66 96-236-9745
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