Thailand work visa: a detailed guide
Many people’s imagination is drawn to the tropical beaches, friendly culture and exciting lifestyle in Thailand. However, in order to work in this amazing country, you will need a work visa. This detailed guide will help you learn more about the process of obtaining a work visa in Thailand.
First, it’s worth noting that a work visa and a business visa in Thailand, in terms of visa laws, are considered the same thing – a Non-Immigrant B class visa. The work visa is for employees, while the business visa is for individuals who are starting a business. It is important to note that business owners (shareholders) cannot obtain a work visa unless they are employed by the company as a director.
The process of obtaining a work visa in Thailand
- Proof of Employment: Your employer in Thailand must provide proof of intent to hire you. This confirmation must include information about your intended job and salary.
- Applying for a visa: Once you receive the confirmation, you can apply for a work visa at the Thai embassy or consulate in your country. You will need the following documents: passport, photos, proof of employment and possibly a medical certificate.
- Probationary period: Some employers may offer you a probationary period prior to processing your work permit and work visa. This is against the law as any employment in Thailand without a work permit and Non-Immigrant B visa is illegal.
- Fines and Penalties: Illegal employment and illegal hiring can result in fines, imprisonment and even deportation.
- Minimum Wage: For foreigners, the contract must specify a minimum salary of 50,000 baht per month. This defines the list of positions and areas in which a foreigner cannot work.
The process of obtaining a work visa in Thailand in 2024 consists of the following main steps:
- Employment with an officially registered Thai company. This can be achieved by entering into a pre-employment agreement or contract.
- Document preparation. Your employer in Thailand must prepare all the necessary documents to obtain a work visa.
- Obtaining a Non-Immigrant B visa abroad. This is usually done at a Thai consulate or embassy. In some cases, it is possible to change visa types while already in Thailand, but most provinces prefer that the exit and obtaining of the visa takes place outside the country.
- Entering the country on a work visa. After obtaining a Non-Immigrant B visa, you enter the country and are authorized to stay for 90 days.
- Processing a work permit. This step involves applying for and obtaining a work permit in Thailand.
- Obtaining an annual work permit to stay in Thailand. Based on your work permit, you can obtain a one-year work visa permit to stay in Thailand. This permit can be renewed for another year after the expiration date.
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