The event was opened by H.E. Mr Nadhavathna Krishnamra, Ambassador of Thailand to the United Kingdom, together with Khun Saipin Saiswang Lee, Chair of ATBUK. We were privileged to welcome distinguished guests, ATBUK members and friends from the Anglo-Thai community for this important occasion.

Why was King Chulalongkorn’s visit to Britain so important?

Dr Wit took us back to a time when European colonial powers were expanding across Asia. Thailand, then known as Siam, was surrounded by territories under British and French colonial control.

Yet Thailand remained independent, alongside Japan as one of the few Asian nations to avoid formal Western colonisation.

This was not simply a matter of luck.

Dr Wit explained how King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) recognised that protecting Siam’s independence required careful planning, diplomacy and an understanding of international power.

Thailand’s diplomatic relationship with the West had developed over several reigns. Contact expanded under King Rama III, followed by the Bowring Treaty with Britain in 1855 during the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV).

King Chulalongkorn took this further.

His European journey in 1897 was carefully planned to strengthen relationships with influential European monarchs and governments. Britain was an important stop, including his historic meeting with Queen Victoria at Osborne House on the Isle of Wight.

Rather than relying solely on military strength, King Chulalongkorn used diplomacy, personal relationships and modernisation to protect Siam’s position.

Education was also central to his strategy. Members of the royal family were sent to study in Europe, including Britain, gaining knowledge and experience that would help modernise Thailand’s administration and institutions.

The visit was not merely ceremonial. It was part of a much wider strategy to ensure Siam could negotiate with powerful nations while maintaining its sovereignty.

The legacy through two World Wars

Dr Wit also reflected on how Thailand continued to navigate international challenges during WWI and WWII, making difficult strategic and diplomatic decisions to protect the country’s sovereignty.

During WWI, Thailand’s alignment with the Allies helped strengthen its international standing. During WWII, the Free Thai Movement played an important role in maintaining relationships with the Allies and safeguarding Thailand’s position after the war.

These events demonstrated how the importance of diplomacy, international relationships and strategic thinking continued beyond the reign of King Chulalongkorn.

Remembering Queen Rambhai Barni and King Rama VII

Another important part of this history is Her Majesty Queen Rambhai Barni, Queen Consort of King Prajadhipok (Rama VII).

Following King Rama VII’s abdication in 1935 and his passing in Britain in 1941, Queen Rambhai Barni remained in England during the war. She supported the Free Thai Movement and contributed to wartime voluntary activities.

We are particularly pleased to acknowledge that UNESCO has included the centennial commemoration of Queen Rambhai Barni’s contributions to education, social development and gender equality in its 2026–2027 Anniversaries Celebration programme.

This has special significance for ATBUK.

Earlier this year, our Chair, Khun Saipin Saiswang Lee, participated in a visit to Golders Green Crematorium in London, where King Rama VII was cremated in 1941. The visit included paying respects and viewing the cherry blossom trees planted in his memory by the Rajaprajanugroh Foundation.

It is a meaningful connection between the history we discussed at the lecture and the Thai heritage that remains part of Britain’s history today.

What can we learn from this history?

One of the strongest messages from Dr Wit’s lecture was that having a strategy is not enough. What matters equally is how that strategy is carried out.

King Chulalongkorn understood the importance of timing, choosing the right diplomatic relationships, investing in education and preparing the country for the future.

These decisions helped shape modern Thailand and continue to offer lessons for leadership, international relations and business today.

Dr Wit ended his lecture with three simple principles for making history meaningful and memorable:

1. Remember with the heart
2. Simplification
3. Entertainment

A reminder that history should not only be recorded, but understood, shared and remembered by future generations.

Our sincere thanks

ATBUK would like to express our sincere appreciation to Dr Wit Sittivaekin for an engaging and informative lecture that brought this important period of Thai history to life.

We extend our deepest gratitude to H.E. Mr Nadhavathna Krishnamra, Ambassador of Thailand to the United Kingdom, and the Royal Thai Embassy team for their generous hospitality and support.

Special thanks to Khun Saipin Saiswang Lee, Chair of ATBUK, for her leadership and commitment to organising this special event and bringing our community together.

We also thank all our distinguished guests, ATBUK members and friends who attended and joined the reception afterwards.

As an association dedicated to strengthening Thai-British business relationships, we value the opportunity to understand the history behind the ties we continue to develop today.

Thailand’s independence was not preserved by chance. It was the result of diplomacy, difficult decisions and the ability to turn long-term plans into action.

Supported by the Royal Thai Embassy in London and coordinated in collaboration with ATBUK, the programme will offer Thai culinary professionals an opportunity to strengthen their skills and undertake an official assessment under Thailand’s National Skill Standards.

The initiative forms part of the 2027 Overseas Thai Workforce Skills Development Programme, organised by Thailand’s Department of Skill Development, Ministry of Labour. The programme covers the National Skill Standard assessment for Thai cooks at Levels 1 and 2.
Programme Schedule

• Day 1 – Training and Assessment PreparationParticipants will receive training and guidance to help them prepare for the National Skill Standard assessment.
• Day 2 – National Skill Standard AssessmentParticipants will undertake a practical Thai cookery skills assessment.

Those who successfully pass the assessment will receive an official certificate confirming that they have met the relevant Thai National Skill Standard.

Event Information

• Location: London
• Date and time: To be confirmed
• Venue: To be confirmed
• Availability: Limited to 20 participants

Register Your Interest

ATBUK is currently accepting Expressions of Interest to help establish the number of eligible participants wishing to take part.

To register your interest, please email contact@atbuk.org.

Further information about the date, time, venue, eligibility requirements and application process will be provided once confirmed.

As places are strictly limited to 20 participants, early registration of interest is encouraged.
Important eligibility information: Under the programme’s current eligibility criteria, participation is open to Thai nationals only.

We are delighted to announce the first joint lunch between the Anglo-Thai Society and the Association of Thai Businesses in the UK (ATBUK), featuring Chart Chirathivat, third-generation member of the Chirathivat family and Chief Strategy Officer of Central Group Europe.

Over the past 15 years, Central Group has built a significant presence in Europe, bringing together iconic stores, world-class brands and a distinctive approach to luxury retail. Its portfolio includes Selfridges in London.

Khun Chart will update members on Central Group’s European development, its strategy and its plans for the future.
Places are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Please contact John Luckit at SecretaryATS@anglothaisociety.org by Tuesday 29 September 2026 if you would like to attend.

The cost is expected to be approximately £45 for two courses or £53 for three courses, including gratuities and wine. Individual drinks are payable separately.

What Is the Life in the UK Test?

The Life in the UK Test assesses an applicant’s knowledge of British laws, culture, and civic responsibilities, and is a mandatory requirement for most individuals applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British citizenship. It supports applicants in demonstrating their understanding of, and readiness to integrate into, UK society. Comprehensive guidance on citizenship and application procedures is available through the UK Government and Citizens Advice.
🔗 Citizens Advice – Applying for British Citizenship

Who Needs to Take the Test?

Applicants aged 18 to 65 must take the test when applying for ILR or citizenship. Exemptions apply to individuals who:

• Are under 18 or over 65
• Have a long-term physical or mental health condition supported by medical evidence
• Have previously passed the test as part of another successful application

Test Format and Requirements

The test consists of 24 multiple-choice questions drawn from the official handbook Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents.

• Duration: 45 minutes
• Pass mark: 75% (18 or more correct answers)
• Cost: £50
• Book online at least three days in advance via the official portal
  🔗 Book the Life in the UK Test

Candidates must bring valid identification, such as a passport or biometric residence permit, ensuring that the name on the booking matches their ID exactly.

It is essential for Innovator Founder Visa holders to understand that passing the Life in the UK Test is a mandatory step before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after three years in the UK. This requirement forms part of the Home Office’s assessment of an applicant’s readiness to settle permanently, ensuring they have demonstrated sufficient knowledge of British culture, history, and values. Applicants are encouraged to prepare thoroughly and seek professional or community support to increase their confidence and success rate.

Relevance for Thai Entrepreneurs

For holders of the Innovator Founder Visa, successfully completing the Life in the UK Test is a mandatory requirement before applying for settlement after three years. The test reflects an applicant’s commitment to understanding and integrating into British life, a key aspect of establishing long-term residence and professional contribution within the UK economy and society.

It is essential for Innovator Founder Visa holders to understand that passing the Life in the UK Test is a mandatory step before applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after three years in the UK. This requirement forms part of the Home Office’s assessment of an applicant’s readiness to settle permanently, ensuring they have demonstrated sufficient knowledge of British culture, history, and values. Applicants are encouraged to prepare thoroughly and seek professional or community support to increase their confidence and success rate.

ATBUK acts as a connecting platform, enabling members to access expert-led sessions that explain key requirements, or to link with professionals who provide courses and preparation guidance for the Life in the UK Test and broader settlement pathways.

Written by – Charlotte Xuto Ellis, LLB, Legal Intern & Administrative Support, ATBUK

Reviewed and Approved by – James Thongchat Rittiwong, International Lawyer, Legal Committee Member of ATBUK, Warus & James Raydar Interlaw

The Innovator Founder Visa: A Primary Route for Business Establishment

Introduced in April 2023, the Innovator Founder Visa replaced the previous Start-up and Innovator categories. It is now the principal pathway for non-UK nationals who wish to create and actively manage a business in the UK.

To qualify, applicants must:

• Obtain endorsement from a Home Office-approved body, confirming that the business idea is innovative, viable, and scalable.
  🔗 More details: GOV.UK – Innovator Founder Visa
• Demonstrate financial stability, holding at least £1,270 in personal savings for 28 consecutive days before applying.
  🔗 Eligibility criteria
• Provide evidence of English language proficiency at CEFR Level B2 or above.
• Be aged 18 or over and commit to an active, full-time role in the business.

This visa is valid for three years and may provide a route to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) if specific performance and endorsement conditions are met. Eligible family members — including a spouse, partner, or dependent children under 18 — may accompany the applicant with the right to work or study in the UK.

Understanding the Endorsement Stage

The endorsement stage is one of the most challenging aspects of the Innovator Founder Visa process. Applicants must demonstrate that their business concept meets three key criteria,  it must be innovative, viable, and scalable, as assessed by an authorised endorsing body. Preparing a proposal that meets these standards often requires detailed market research, financial planning, and clear strategic vision. ATBUK encourages Thai entrepreneurs to seek guidance from our network and qualified legal professionals to refine their business plans and improve their chances of a successful endorsement.

Transition from the Start-up Visa

The Start-up Visa, which offered a two-year stay without a direct settlement pathway, closed in 2023. Existing Start-up Visa holders may transition to the Innovator Founder Visa, providing greater continuity and a clearer progression route to permanent residence.

Legal and Business Compliance

Beyond immigration requirements, Thai entrepreneurs must also comply with UK business registration, taxation, and employment law. Choosing an appropriate business structure — such as a sole trader, partnership, or limited company — has implications for liability, governance, and financial reporting. Comprehensive information and guidance are available from the HMRC business portal.
🔗 GOV.UK – Business and Self-Employment

Support from ATBUK

Navigating immigration and business setup can be complex. The Association of Thai Businesses in the UK (ATBUK)provides a supportive network for Thai entrepreneurs through:

• Access to professionals who can assist with refining business proposals for endorsement.
• Networking opportunities with experienced Thai business owners operating successfully in the UK.

Through collaboration, knowledge exchange, and peer support, ATBUK contributes to the sustainable growth and integration of Thai enterprises within the UK business landscape.

Written by – Charlotte Xuto Ellis, LLB, Legal Intern & Administrative Support, ATBUKReviewed and Approved by – James Thongchat Rittiwong, International Lawyer, Legal Committee Member of ATBUK, Warus & James Raydar Interlaw