1. Q: Do I need both a visa and a work permit to work in Thailand?
Yes. A visa allows you to stay in Thailand, while a work permit legally allows you to work. In most cases, foreigners must hold a Non-Immigrant “B” Visa and a valid Work Permit before starting work.
2. Q: Can I work in Thailand with a tourist visa?
No. Working under a tourist visa is illegal in Thailand. You must change to an appropriate non-immigrant visa and obtain a work permit before commencing employment.
3. Q: What type of visa is required to apply for a work permit?
Typically, a Non-Immigrant “B” Visa (Non-B) is required. Other visa types may be acceptable in specific cases, such as BOI-supported projects or special permissions.
4. Q: Can I apply for a work permit while I am outside Thailand?
In most cases, you must first obtain a Non-B Visa from a Thai embassy or consulate abroad before entering Thailand and applying for a work permit.
5. Q: Does my job title affect work permit approval?
Yes. The job title and job description must be consistent with Thai regulations and the company’s business objectives. Certain titles may require adjustment to meet legal requirements.
6. Q: Are there restricted occupations for foreigners in Thailand?
Yes. Thai law reserves certain occupations exclusively for Thai nationals. Foreigners are prohibited from working in these roles, even with a visa and work permit.
7. Q: Can I work for more than one company in Thailand?
Generally, no. A work permit is issued for a specific employer, position, and location. Multiple employers or positions may be possible only under special legal structures and approvals.
8. Q: Is a medical check-up required for a work permit application?
Yes. A medical certificate issued by an approved hospital or clinic in Thailand is generally required as part of the work permit application.
9. Q: Are there new visa options for professionals, investors, or remote workers?
Yes. Thailand offers special visa programs such as the Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa and other incentive-based visas for qualified professionals, investors, and experts, subject to specific criteria.
10. Q: Can my family stay in Thailand with me?
Yes. Your spouse and children may apply for a Non-Immigrant “O” Visa (Dependent Visa) while you hold a valid visa and work permit.
11. Q: What are the requirements for the Thai company hiring a foreigner?
The company must meet specific legal criteria, including:
- Proper company registration
- Minimum registered capital
- Required ratio of Thai employees to foreign employees
We can assess company eligibility and advise on compliance.
12. Q: Can I change my job or employer?
Yes, but a new work permit must be obtained, and the previous permit must be cancelled. Working in a different position or for a different employer without updating the permit is not allowed.
13. Q: What happens if my visa or work permit expires?
Overstaying or working without a valid permit may result in fines, penalties, or deportation. We strongly recommend renewal planning well in advance.
14. Q: What options are available after a work permit or visa cancellation?
Depending on individual circumstances, foreigners may:
- Leave Thailand within the permitted period
- Apply for a new visa or change visa status
- Apply for a temporary extension (if eligible)
Professional advice is recommended to assess the most appropriate option.
15. Q: Can I extend my visa and work permit annually?
Yes. Visa and work permit extensions are typically granted on a one-year basis, subject to eligibility and document compliance.
16. Q: What documents are required for a visa and work permit application?
Requirements vary by case but typically include:
- Passport
- Educational and employment records
- Company registration documents
- Employment contract
We will provide a customized checklist after an initial consultation.
17. Q: Who is required to submit the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC)?
All foreign nationals entering Thailand, regardless of visa type, are required to submit the TDAC before arrival.
This includes Tourist Visa, Visa Exemption, Non-Immigrant visas (B, O, ED), Permanent Residence (PR) Visa, LTR, and Elite Visa holders.
18. Q: Do foreigners holding a work visa and work permit need to submit the TDAC?
Yes. Holding a valid visa and work permit does not exempt a foreigner from submitting the TDAC when entering Thailand from overseas.
19. Q: What is TM30 reporting?
TM30 is a notification of a foreigner’s place of stay in Thailand. It must be reported to Immigration.
20. Q: Who is responsible for TM30 reporting?
The property owner, landlord, or host is responsible. However, in practice, foreigners often handle this on their behalf.
21. Q: When must TM30 be reported?
Within 24 hours after the foreigner stays at the property.
22. Q: Do I need to re-submit TM30 after leaving Thailand and re-entering?
Yes. TM30 must be reported again after each re-entry and stay in Thailand.
23. Q: What is 90-day reporting?
It is a requirement for foreigners staying in Thailand long-term to confirm their current address with Immigration every 90 days.
24. Q: How can I submit a 90-day report?
You can submit it in person at Immigration, by mail, or online (if the system is available).
25. Q: If I leave Thailand before 90 days, do I still need to report?
No. The 90-day count resets when you re-enter Thailand.
26. Q: What happens if I miss the 90-day report?
A fine may apply, and it may affect future visa extensions or Immigration procedures.
27. Q: Is TM30 the same as 90-day reporting?
No. It is not the same.
- TM30 = Reporting where you stay (address notification)
- 90-day reporting = Reporting that you are still staying in Thailand
28.Q: How long does it take to obtain a Non-Immigrant “B” Visa?
The processing time generally takes approximately 1–2 weeks. However, the timeline may vary depending on the Thai embassy or consulate, how complete the documents are, and the discretion of the authorities.
29.Q: How many days? Or how long it takes to receive work permit,
Once the application is fully submitted, the work permit booklet is usually issued within 3–5 working days, subject to official discretion.
30. Q: Can your firm assist after a visa or work permit cancellation?
Yes.
We assist clients with post-cancellation planning, visa transition strategies, compliance review, and exit or re-entry arrangements, subject to legal feasibility.
31. Q: Can your firm handle the entire visa and work permit process?
Yes. We provide end-to-end services, including consultation, document preparation, application submission, follow-ups, and renewals.
32. Q: Do you provide ongoing visa and work permit support?
Yes. We offer retainer services for companies requiring continuous support for foreign employees, including renewals, reporting, and compliance monitoring
33. Q: How can I get started?
Simply contact us for a free initial assessment. Our specialists will review your situation and recommend the most suitable visa and work permit solution.