Introduction
Thailand is a popular destination for tourists and expatriates alike, offering beautiful beaches, bustling cities, delicious cuisine, and welcoming locals. Each year, over 20 million foreigners visit Bangkok alone, with many choosing to live and work in the country.
If you have secured a job in Thailand, you will need a work visa and a work permit to work legally. A Thailand work visa is required to enter the country before applying for a work permit. This guide covers everything you need to know about obtaining a work visa in Thailand, including requirements, the application process, and frequently asked questions.
Different Types of Work Visas in Thailand
To work legally in Thailand, you need a non-immigrant visa and a work permit. The visa can be applied for at a Thai Consulate or Embassy in your home country.
Types of Thai Work Visas:
- Non-Immigrant Visa B – For general employment
- Non-Immigrant Visa O – For dependents of work visa holders or those working with NGOs
- Non-Immigrant Visa M – For media professionals and journalists
- Non-Immigrant Visa IB – For investors in businesses promoted by Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI)
- Non-Immigrant Visa B-A – For business owners or entrepreneurs
After securing the appropriate visa, you must apply for a work permit at the Department of Employment in Thailand.
Who Needs a Work Visa in Thailand?
A work visa is required for any foreign national who intends to work in Thailand. Even if you are exempt from a tourist visa, you must obtain a work visa and work permit to be employed legally. This includes:
- Full-time employees
- Part-time and seasonal workers
- Volunteers
- Entrepreneurs and investors
Requirements for a Thai Work Visa
To apply for a Thai work visa, you must provide the following documents:
- A valid passport (at least six months validity with two blank pages; one-year visas require 18 months validity)
- Completed Thai work visa application form (available from the Thai Embassy or Consulate)
- Passport-sized photograph (3.5cm x 4.5cm, white background, taken within the last six months)
- Proof of sufficient financial means (20,000 THB for individuals, 40,000 THB for families)
- Official police clearance certificate
- Letter of Approval from the Thai Ministry of Labour (your employer must apply for this at the Office of Foreign Workers Administration)
Application Process for a Thai Work Visa
Before traveling to Thailand, you must apply for a work visa at a Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
Steps to Apply:
- Schedule an appointment with the Thai Embassy or Consulate in your country.
- Prepare the required documents as listed above.
- Submit your application and documents in person or by post (some embassies may require online applications).
- Pay the visa fee (payment methods vary by country, so check with the respective Embassy or Consulate).
- Wait for processing, which can take between 2 to 10 days.
- Collect your passport with the visa or receive it by mail if applying remotely.
Once in Thailand, apply for a work permit before your visa expires.
Thai Work Visa - Cost & Validity
Costs:
You must pay a fee to get a Thailand work visa. Fees may vary slightly, depending on the country you apply from. It’s best to check on the website for the Embassy or Consulate you intend to apply at. Typical fees include:
- 2,000 Thai Baht (approx. $65 USD) for a single-entry visa
- 5,000 Thai Baht (approx. $164 USD) for a multiple-entry visa
Validity:
A Thai work visa is typically valid for up to three months for both single and multiple entries. In some cases, a multiple-entry visa may be granted for up to one year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, the process is the same. Even if you work part-time, seasonally, or as a volunteer, you must obtain a valid work visa and permit.
Yes. Entrepreneurs must apply for a Non-Immigrant Visa B-A if they plan to work with an existing company or a Non-Immigrant Visa IB if they are establishing a new business.
Yes, your spouse and children (under 20 years old) can apply for a Non-Immigrant O Visa to stay with you in Thailand. You must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support them.
Once you arrive in Thailand, apply for your work permit at the Office of Foreign Workers Administration. This step must be completed before you begin working.
How to Acquire a Work Permit in Thailand
After securing your work visa and arriving in Thailand, you must apply for a work permit.
Required Documents for a Work Permit:
From the Employee:
- Valid passport with visa
- Letter of employment or work contract
- Academic certificates and relevant licenses
- CV / Resume detailing work experience
- 3 passport-sized photos (5 x 6 cm)
- Signed and stamped health certificate
- Proof of accommodation in Thailand
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
From the Employer:
- Company registration certificate
- List of company shareholders
- VAT registration certificate
- Company withholding tax details
- Any additional supporting documents requested
Work Permit Processing Time:
- The process usually takes around 7 days.
- Once approved, you must collect your work permit from the Ministry of Labour.
Conclusion
Securing a Thailand work visa and work permit is essential for anyone planning to work in the country. Following the correct procedures ensures a smooth transition into employment. By preparing the necessary documents in advance and understanding the process, you can avoid delays and begin working legally in Thailand without issues.
If you are looking to hire employees in Thailand, check out our guide on 5 Things You Should Know About Hiring in Thailand.
