Business Visa and Work Permit in Thailand
In Thailand, a Business Visa (Non-Immigrant B Visa) and a work permit are essential for foreign nationals who wish to legally work and conduct business activities in the country.
We can assist you with processing and securing Non Immigrant B Visa single entry for 90 days followed by a Work Permit and a Year Extension based on Work. Did you know, you can change Tourist Visa to Non Immigrant B Visa without having to leave Thailand? Whether you are on Tourist Visa or on 30 days exempt stamp, we can process and secure your Non Immigrant B Visa. However, it doesn’t apply in all cases so contact us now. We provide a free consultation.
Non-Immigrant B Visa (Business Visa)
The Non-Immigrant B Visa is a requirement for anyone who intends to work or conduct business in Thailand. The visa can be issued as a single entry or multiple entries, with different durations:
- Single Entry: Valid for 90 days.
- Multiple Entry: Valid for one year, with each stay not exceeding 90 days. This type of visa allows you to enter and exit Thailand multiple times within the visa’s validity period.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Invitation/Employment Letter: An official letter from a company in Thailand confirming the employment or business activity.
- Company Documents: Thai company registration papers, financial statements, and other related documents.
- Educational and Professional Qualifications: Copies of relevant certificates, degrees, or professional licenses.
Apply from your Home Country:
- Apply at Thai Embassy/Consulate: Submit the required documents at a Thai embassy or consulate in your home country or another country.
- Receive the Visa: Once approved, you’ll receive the Non-Immigrant B Visa, allowing you to enter Thailand.
- Entry and 90-Day Stay: Upon entering Thailand, you’ll receive a 90-day stay permit, which can be extended if you meet certain conditions.
Work Permit
A work permit is required for any foreigner who intends to work legally in Thailand. It is issued by the Ministry of Labour and must be obtained after receiving the Non-Immigrant B Visa but before starting work.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Valid Non-Immigrant B Visa: You must hold a valid Non-Immigrant B Visa.
- Thai Company Support: A Thai company must sponsor your work permit application. The company must have a certain amount of registered capital and a quota of Thai employees relative to foreign employees.
- Qualifications and Job Description: Your qualifications and job description must align with the position for which the work permit is being applied.
Apply from within Thailand:
- Preparation of Documents: Gather necessary documents, including a copy of your passport, visa, employment contract, company registration papers, and medical certificate.
- Submission to the Ministry of Labour: Submit the work permit application to the Ministry of Labour in Thailand.
- Approval and Issuance: Once approved, the work permit will be issued. You must carry your work permit at all times while working in Thailand.
- Annual Renewal: The work permit is typically valid for one year and must be renewed annually.Year Extension Based on Work
After receiving a work permit, you can apply for a one-year extension of your Non-Immigrant B Visa based on your employment. This extension allows you to stay in Thailand for one year without needing to leave the country.
Process for Year Extension:
- 90-Day Reporting: Even with the one-year extension, you are required to report to the immigration office every 90 days.
- Re-entry Permit: If you plan to travel outside Thailand during the year, you must obtain a re-entry permit to ensure your visa extension remains valid upon return.
Important Considerations:
- Changing from a Tourist Visa: In some cases, it is possible to change a Tourist Visa to a Non-Immigrant B Visa without leaving Thailand. However, this is not applicable in all situations and often depends on specific circumstances and the discretion of the Thai immigration authorities.
- Legal Compliance: It's crucial to ensure all documentation is accurate and complete, as working in Thailand without a proper visa and work permit can lead to legal consequences.
If you need assistance with obtaining a Business Visa or work permit in Thailand it’s advisable to consult professionals who are familiar with the latest regulations and procedures. TVS can help you.