Thinking about working in Thailand? From vibrant cities to stunning beaches, it’s no wonder the Land of Smiles draws professionals from all over the world. But before you dive into job offers or business ideas, it’s crucial to understand the legal steps required to work here. Navigating Thai visa rules and work regulations can be tricky — but with the right guidance, it’s entirely doable.

Step 1: Get a Non-Immigrant B Visa (Work Visa)

This visa lets you enter Thailand with the intention to work—but it’s not a license to start working just yet.

Where to apply:

At a Thai embassy or consulate in your home country or nearby country (some can convert a Tourist Visa inside Thailand, but don’t count on it).

When to apply:

Roughly 30 days before your planned arrival.

You’ll need:

• Valid passport (6+ months left; 18+ months for a 1-year visa)

• Completed visa application form

• 1 passport photo (3.5cm x 4.5cm, white background, no goofy filters)

• Proof of financials (20,000 THB solo / 40,000 THB family)

• Police clearance certificate

• Letter of approval from Thailand’s Ministry of Labour (your employer gets this)

• Job offer or contract

• Company documents (registration, shareholders list, etc.)

• For teachers: letters from Thai education authorities

• CV / resume

Visa Fee:

• Single-entry: 2,000 THB (~$65 USD)

• Multi-entry: 5,000 THB (~$165 USD)

  
  

Step 2: Apply for the Work Permit in Thailand

You made it to Thailand! Now, you need the Work Permit to actually start working.

Who qualifies?

You must be employed by a company that meets certain financial criteria:

• Thai business: 2M THB capital per foreign employee

• With Thai spouse: 1M THB capital

• Foreign business: 3M THB investment per foreigner

• Must employ 4 full-time Thai staff per foreigner

BOI (Board of Investment) companies are the VIP exception—less red tape and faster approval.

You’ll need (employee side):

• Passport (every page signed)

• Non-Immigrant B visa

• Departure card (TM.6)

• Degree + transcript (certified + translated if needed)

• Resume/CV

• 3 business photos (5x6 cm)

• Certificates/licenses

• Marriage cert + Thai spouse docs (if applicable)

Employer provides:

• Company registration & shareholder list

• Factory license (if needed)

• VAT and tax documents

• Social security filings

All stamped, signed, and issued within 90 days.

How long it takes:

• Bangkok: ~7 business days

• Phuket: up to 2 months

• BOI companies: same day approval at One Stop Service Center

  
  

Step 3: Extension of Stay

Once you’ve got the visa and permit, apply for a visa extension (usually 1 year) at Thai Immigration. Don’t skip this or you’ll risk overstaying.

Important Notes:

• Never work without a permit. You could get fined, deported, or worse—jail time.

• Work permits are employer- and job-specific. Switch employers? You’ll need a new permit.

• Some professions are off-limits to foreigners under Thai law—check with the Ministry of Labour.

Pro Tips (2025 edition):

• Don’t try to freelance or teach online in Thailand without a proper visa and permit—it’s still work in the eyes of immigration.

• Get your degrees and documents certified before leaving your country—it’s a pain to do later.

• If you’re a startup founder, consider BOI registration for visa perks.

• Keep your visa and work permit linked and valid at all times.

  
  

To legally work in Thailand:

• Get the Non-Immigrant B visa (before entering)

• Apply for a Work Permit (after arrival)

• Extend your stay (for long-term living/working)

No shortcuts. No freelancing loopholes. Contact SIAC Consulting to do it the right way and you're golden.