A sign on a white board for Thai Work Permit

Thai Work Permit

Securing a Thai work permit is a crucial step for any foreign national aiming to work legally in Thailand. A Thai work permit, issued by the Ministry of Labour, allows foreign employees to legally work in the country under the conditions set by Thai law. Not only does this permit authorize employment, but it also defines specific aspects of the role, including the job title, the employer, and the location of work.

Without a valid work permit, foreign nationals are prohibited from working in Thailand, regardless of their visa type. This restriction applies not only to traditional employment but also to volunteer work, internships, and business-related activities. Obtaining a Thai work permit is therefore essential for ensuring legal compliance and avoiding potential penalties.

Most Thai Work Permits are tied to the NON-B Visa

a graphic for visas thailand

 You will need a NON-B Visa to apply for a Thai Work Permit. Find out more about our Visa packages.

company registration and visa package

You can apply for a Thai work permit on a NON-B Visa through your own company.

An advert for a thailand work visa

We also have Sponsored Visa packages which come with the Thai Work Permit.

Thai Work Permit Requirements

checklist for thailand work visa

Personal Documentation:

Passport or travel document with validity of not less than 6 months.

Recent passport-sized photograph (4 x 6 cm)

Educational Certificates: Copies of degree certificates, diplomas, or any relevant professional qualifications.

Resume or CV: Detailing previous work experience and skills relevant to the job in Thailand.

Medical Certificate: Health certificate from a Thai hospital or clinic, often requiring tests for certain conditions like tuberculosis.

Proof of Residence in Thailand: This can be a lease agreement, utility bill, or other documentation showing an address in Thailand.

Marriage Certificate (if applicable): For married applicants, a certified copy of the marriage certificate, along with their spouse’s ID or passport copy, if they are Thai nationals.

Thailand work visa checklist

Company Documentation:

Company must have 2million baht registered capital, as well as 4 Thai Employees per Thai work permit (some businesses like schools and BOI institutions have exceptions to this)

Business registration and business licences

List of Company Shareholders

Company Profile and Details of Operations

List of foreign workers stating names, nationalities and positions

Map indicating business locations (Graphical- not google)

Value-added tax registration (Por Por 20)

Balance sheet, statement of Income Tax and Business Tax (Por Ngor Dor 50 and Por Ngor Dor 30 of the latest year)

 Social Security Filings and tax receipts for previous 3 months.

Employment Contract: Signed contract specifying job title, role, and salary details in line with the information provided in the application.

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Thai Work Permit Process

  • ABefore applying for your work permit you will need to apply for a NON-B Visa from abroad (some can convert in Thailand-contact for details)
  • AOnce in Thailand you will have three months to process your work permit and extend you visa. The work permit can be extended at any point during this period
  • AAfter receiving your work permit from the Thai Labour department you will then process your Non--B visa extension
  • AIt typically takes 7 days to process your work permit but allow a month to process your visa extension.
  • AOnce you have your work permit you will want to apply for your Thai Tax number (if this is your first time)
thai work permit graphic checklist

Other things to note

With most work permits the employee will  deduct your personal income tax from your salary. You will also have to make social security contributions. You can find out more about social security here and your personal income tax requirements here.

What does Thai Social Security provide?

Injury and sickness benefits:

Outpatient and inpatient

Compensation benefits during sickness

Disability Benefits

Maternity Benefits:

Total 90 days benefit

At least 45 days after giving birth

Death Payouts:

Payouts to family members at death

Support for funeral payments

Retirement Benefits:

Pension benefits or lump sum payouts

Survivor benefits for relatives of deceased

Child Benefits

Child allowances

Educational support

Child healthcare

Unemployment Benefits

Benefits for jobseekers

Support for those out of work

Want to know more about how to receive a Thai Work Permit? Perhaps you need other visa help? Contact us for free consultation.

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