Work Permit
Work Permit for a career in Thailand
All foreigners working in Thailand, whether serving as managers of their own business, or working for other local or international firms, are required to obtain a work permit prior to commencing work. The requirement also exists for those serving as “consultants.”
The Thai government have recently introduced changes to eliminate the fraudulent use of work permits by foreigners not entitled to them. For this reason, we suggest you consult with the specialists at EUROPEAN LAW ASSOCIATES prior to setting up your new business or undertaking to work for another employer in Thailand.
Procedure to Gain a Work Permit
The process of obtaining a work permit generally takes about two weeks, assuming all necessary documentation is made available in a timely manner. You will need to provide the following:
- A letter from your previous employer indicating your position and dates of service;
- A copy of your highest academic certificate (e.g. university degree);
- A passport with valid Non-Immigrant "B" visa;
- A copy of your Thai tax identification card, if you have one;
- Copies of Thai Personal Income Tax returns (Form 91) for the most recent year (if you filed one);
- A medical certificate.
The employer must provide documents attesting to:
- Its business status;
- Its compliance with revenue regulations (including recent annual audits and tax returns);
- A map showing the location of its office;
- Its current organization chart.
If the required information and supporting documentation is complete, the work permit will be granted in about two weeks. The accompanying work visa, valid for one year, can then be applied for at the Immigration Bureau.
The work permit and visa will be issued in tandem, and can be renewed annually, provided the supporting documentation is updated. If you leave Thailand during this period of time, your work visa may be cancelled, unless you have previously obtained a Re-Entry Permit. Those who want to travel frequently outside of Thailand can apply for a multiple-re-entry permit, which allows multiple exits from, and re-entries to, Thailand throughout the year without affecting your visa status.