Bangkok: The Super License system, as stipulated in the Act on Facilitating Licensing and Public Service Provision, B.E. 2569 (2026), is set to revolutionize the licensing process in Thailand. This initiative aims to address the cumbersome and redundant licensing system that has long been a hindrance to business operations and professional life in the country.
According to Thai News Agency, the inefficient licensing system in Thailand currently requires businesses to obtain multiple licenses from various agencies, which involves repeated inspections before operations can commence. This not only increases costs and burdens for businesses but also contributes to corruption. The Act on Facilitating Licensing and Public Service Provision introduces the Super License system, which is designed to eliminate these inefficiencies by allowing businesses to secure primary and secondary licenses concurrently through a single application process.
Section 21 of the Act establishes the Super License system, allowing a Royal Decree to be issued for businesses requiring multiple licenses. This decree will determine which licenses are designated as primary, or "Super Licenses," and which can be granted as secondary licenses. The Office of the Civil Service Commission (OCSC) is tasked with collaborating with relevant agencies to finalize the draft Royal Decree.
In the initial phase, the OCSC and the Office of the Council of State have examined hotel business licenses under the Hotel Act B.E. 2547 (2004) as potential candidates for the Super License system. Holders of hotel licenses might automatically receive additional necessary licenses, such as those for health hazards, restaurant operations, and entertainment establishments.
A key principle of the Super License system requires applicants to express their intention to operate a business under a secondary license. The government agency responsible for the primary license will then coordinate with relevant agencies to conduct a joint inspection of the business premises, reducing the burden on citizens in dealing with multiple government agencies.
The Super License system aims to streamline procedures, reduce government discretion, mitigate corruption risks, and enhance transparency and accountability. It is expected to significantly boost Thailand's competitiveness by simplifying the business licensing process and reducing unnecessary obstacles for entrepreneurs.