Navigating the Visa and Work Permit Process in Thailand to Serve You Better
Navigating the Visa and Work Permit Process in Thailand to Serve You Better
In this article you will find the following sections:
Welcome to the Ultimate Guide to Employer of Record Services in Thailand.
Are you seeking an ideal economic landscape for business expansion? Thailand, with its thriving economy and remarkably low unemployment rates, presents a compelling opportunity. With a strong presence in both industrial and service sectors – the former driving robust exports and the latter rooted in tourism and finance – and a significant portion of its population engaged in agriculture, Thailand offers diverse possibilities. Its economy has maintained consistent growth since the mid-1990s, promising a bright future.
If you’re contemplating Thailand as your next business frontier, it’s crucial to explore the wealth of options available. This guide will provide you with invaluable insights and knowledge to make informed decisions about expanding your business operations in this dynamic market.
Potential workers and business owners must begin applying for visas through the Thai consulate or embassy in their home country. Thailand has seven different visas, depending on the type of work an employee will be performing in the country.
| Visa Type | Description | Duration | Stay Period | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thai Elite Visa | Long-term visa under Privilege Entry category offering residency for 5 to 20 years with a membership fee. 5-year renewable, multiple entry, extendable stay of 1 year per entry. | 5 to 20 years, depending on the package | 1 year per entry | Ideal for residents, digital nomads, retirees, and business people. |
| Tourist Visa | 60-day visa, multiple or single entry, extendable up to 30 days with visa run. Convertible to Non-Immigrant Visa for longer stays. | 60 days | Up to 30-day extension | Suitable for short-term stays and tourists. |
| Non-Immigrant Visa | Single entry, 90-day visa. Extendable by visa run. Allows work permit and bank account. | 90 days | Extendable by designated extension process | Suitable for individuals planning to work in Thailand. |
| One Year Non-Immigrant Visa | Multiple entry, valid for 1 year. Requires visa run every 90 days. | 1 year | 90 days per entry, requires visa run every 90 days | Allows a longer stay with regular visa runs. |
| Marriage & Retirement Visa | Marriage Visa requires marriage to a Thai national. Retirement Visa for those aged 50 or above. | 1 year (renewable) | Stay for 1 year, renewable without leaving the kingdom | Requires meeting financial requirements. |
| Business Visa | Also known as Non-Immigrant Business Visa. Designed for legal business activities. Requires visa run every 90 days. | 1 year | 90 days per entry, requires visa run every 90 days | Suited for individuals involved in legal business in Thailand. |
| Permanent Resident Visa | Requires 3 consecutive years with one-year visa extensions. Income requirements: 30,000 Baht/month (married to a Thai for 5 years) or 80,000 Baht/month (single). | Permanent | Permanent | Qualification based on residency and income requirements. |
| Visa Type | Description | Duration & Stay Period |
|---|---|---|
| Thai Elite Visa | Long-term residency, 5-20 years. 5-year renewable, multiple entry, 1-year stay per entry. | 5-20 years, 1 year per entry |
| Tourist Visa | 60-day visa, multiple/single entry, extendable up to 30 days. Convertible to Non-Immigrant Visa. | 60 days, Up to 30 days extension |
| Non-Immigrant Visa | Single entry, 90-day visa. Extendable by designated process. Allows work permit and bank account. | 90 days, Extendable |
| One Year Non-Immigrant Visa | Multiple entry, valid 1 year. Requires visa run every 90 days. | 1 year, 90 days per entry |
| Marriage & Retirement Visa | Marriage Visa for spouses, Retirement Visa for 50+. Requires financial qualifications. | 1 year (renewable), Stay 1 year, renewable |
| Business Visa | Non-Immigrant Business Visa for legal business activities. Requires visa run every 90 days. | 1 year, 90 days per entry |
| Permanent Resident Visa | Requires 3 consecutive years. Income requirements apply for eligibility. | Permanent |
Most workers require a Non-Immigrant Category B visa to work in Thailand.
Required Documents:
The process of getting a work visa is as follows:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Make an appointment with the Thailand embassy or consulate in your country. Inquire about the application process, whether it can be done in-person or online. |
| 2 | Prepare your visa documents as outlined in the section "Required Documents" above. |
| 3 | Submit your visa application and documents through the consulate. If mailing forms, include a self-addressed stamped envelope for correspondence. |
Visa fees may vary slightly from country to country. Processing times are anywhere from 2 to 10 days.
Non-immigrant work visas last up to three months in Thailand. You’ll need to enter Thailand before it expires to apply for your work permit.
Once you have secured the proper Thai visa, you can apply for a work permit (different from a work visa) in Thailand through the Department of Employment.
Senior Well Test Supervisor
“When you are a professional working remotely from Thailand you need a reliable and efficient agency for your HR related matters. Aster Lion have done exactly that over the last 2 years giving me peace of mind to get on with my work, worry free. Thoroughly recommendable!”.
Business Development
"Since the first communication with AsterLion, it has all been great service and easy steps. The team is extremely professional and always is there to solve your questions or doubts. The whole process of getting established might seem like a big deal, but the AsterLion team walk you through it step by step with the outmost professionalism. What seemed to be hard and slow, becomes easy and fast with the services provided from Aster Lion."
Managing Director - D.E. Consulting
“We have worked with Aster Lion for several years. They are professional, efficient and friendly. Tailor made solutions to our needs are the best part of their services. Their staff are very experienced and hard working. We are impressed of their focus and dedication in what they do!“
Business Development
“Aster Lion have been supporting me in business now for 2 years and had set the bar very high for their service back in 2020. At every step of the way, they have maintained this high level of service throughout. Their knowledge and experience has given me stress free management for my business requirements.”
Marine Warranty Surveyor
“I was very lucky to be connected to Aster Lion as they assisted me with my HR requirements to get set up in Thailand. The process was carried out in a very professional and timely manner, without any issues and the communication was also very clearly explained to me throughout the engagement. I would highly recommend Aster Lion to anyone with HR or Payroll requirements in Thailand.”
Offshore Installation Manager
"During the time that I have been working with Aster Lion Consulting, I have found them to be efficient in handling my business in all respects. I have found their staff to be professional, courteous and timely in both organising my affairs and in keeping personal appointments. I have already recommended them to several of my colleagues who have taken advantage of their service and would do so again without hesitation."
Discover how our solutions have transformed businesses, directly from those who've experienced our expertise firsthand.
1. Initiate Application:
2. Company Requirements and Documentation:
3. Worker Requirements and Documentation:
4. Submission and Processing:
Engaging an Employer of Record (EOR) company in Thailand offers a multitude of benefits, making the process of expanding your business smoother and more efficient. Here’s a detailed look at how an EOR can be a valuable partner in your journey:
1. Expertise in Thai Law:
An experienced EOR firm has an in-depth understanding of Thai labor laws, regulations, and compliance requirements. This knowledge is vital in ensuring that your business operations align with local legal standards, avoiding potential legal pitfalls and complications.
2. Streamlined Administrative Processes:
An EOR takes care of all the administrative tasks related to hiring employees and maintaining compliance. This includes managing tax submissions, work permits, and employment contracts. This not only saves you time but also reduces the administrative burden on your business.
3. Navigating Work Visas and Permits:
Obtaining work visas and permits in Thailand can be a complex and time-consuming process. EORs have a clear understanding of the steps involved, making it easier for your employees to secure the necessary documentation, which is a crucial aspect of legally working in Thailand.
4. Tailored Employment Contracts:
EORs specialize in creating employment contracts that comply with local labor laws and align with your business needs. These contracts not only protect your interests but also ensure that your employees are offered fair and legal working conditions.
5. Full Compliance with Thai Labor Law:
Compliance with Thai labor law is a critical aspect of operating in the country. An EOR ensures that every aspect of your employment structure adheres to these laws, reducing the risk of disputes or legal complications down the road.
6. Mitigated Risks:
With the support of an EOR, you minimize risks associated with labor disputes and legal issues. Their expertise in managing employment relationships and keeping up with changing laws ensures that your business remains on solid legal ground.
7. Local Insights and Networks:
EORs often have well-established networks and local insights that can be beneficial for your business. They can help you navigate the nuances of the Thai market and offer guidance on cultural practices and business customs.
8. Peace of Mind:
By partnering with an EOR, you can focus on your core business activities, knowing that the complex intricacies of employment, taxation, and compliance are in capable hands. This peace of mind is invaluable for businesses aiming for growth and success in Thailand.
In summary, an Employer of Record in Thailand acts as a supportive ally that not only streamlines your expansion into the Thai market but also ensures that your business operates in full compliance with local laws. With their expertise, you can seize opportunities, mitigate risks, and embark on a journey of growth and prosperity in Thailand.
We deliver tailored Employer of Record services designed to meet the distinctive needs of your business, ensuring a personalized and efficient partnership.
Our team consists of seasoned professionals with extensive experience in your sector, offering valuable insights and strategies to keep your business at the forefront.
As a boutique firm specializing in Employer of Record services, we are agile and quick to adapt. Our commitment to responsiveness allows us to promptly address challenges and capitalize on opportunities.
Partnering with us means direct access to senior consultants engaged at every stage of your project. This ensures hands-on expertise and focused attention, guaranteeing the success of your EOR initiatives.
Much like labor laws, when it comes to Thailand payroll, company payroll and taxes in Thailand come with certain stipulations and regulations you must follow.
Employers in Thailand must withhold income tax, employee payroll tax, and social security contributions from their pay before submitting it to the Thailand Revenue Department.
Income tax rates in Thailand range from 0% for lowest-earning employees up to 35% for workers earning more than earning more than 4 million Thailand baht.
Social security contributions for employer and employee amount to 5% of salaries, topping out at 750 Thailand baht per month.
You must issue pay slips for each pay period, either online or on paper, for every employee so they know how much was deducted from their gross pay.
Your company is under obligation to maintain payroll records for at least 7 years.
Payroll outsourcing in Thailand is legal, and it’s a great way to save your company money by handling mundane payroll services and ensuring that you fully comply with Thai law. It stands to reason that investing in great Employer of Record Services in Thailand would help you immensely in easing your entry into Thailand.
Benefits of payroll services in Thailand include:
Reach out to our team for a free consultation to understand the requirements and steps involved in getting you set up and running a business in Thailand.
We’ll help you navigate through the entire process to ensure you’re up and running with the least amount of steps. You can reach us directly on team@asterlion.com or enter your details below and someone from our team will reach out.
Aster Lion is an Employer of Record based in Thailand providing the following services:
Let us know how we can help you!
Aster Lion Consulting Co., Ltd.
Consulting and HR Services for business success. Tailored strategies, expert guidance, and seamless HR solutions to elevate your organization and drive sustainable growth. Your success, our priority
