Working for a Thai employer requires two layers: a Non-Immigrant B visa (or eligible conversion) and a work permit issued by the Department of Labour. Tourist stamps, DTV, and most exemption entries do not authorise local employment. This guide walks through the standard employer-sponsored path.
Visa vs work permit — both required
| Document | Issued by | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Immigrant B visa | Thai embassy / Immigration | Permission to enter and stay for employment |
| Work permit | Department of Labour | Permission to perform specific work for named employer |
Working without a valid work permit exposes you and your employer to fines, visa cancellation, and deportation risk.
Standard employer-sponsored sequence
- 1
Employer prepares Labour Department file
Company documents, job description, qualifications, sometimes WP3 approval letter.
- 2
You apply for Non-Immigrant B at embassy
Passport, photos, employer invitation, WP3 or pre-approval as required by post.
- 3
Enter Thailand and complete work permit
Apply at Labour office with employer representative; biometrics and fees.
- 4
Extend visa at Immigration
Tie visa validity to work permit expiry; TM.30 and 90-day reporting apply.
- 5
Report changes
New employer, job title, or location may require permit amendment.
See Non-B hub for a structured overview.
Documents employers typically provide
Common Non-B / work permit file
- Company registration and tax documents
- Letter of employment with salary and role
- WP3 or Labour pre-approval where required
- Your degrees, certificates, and CV (sometimes apostilled)
- Passport photos and medical certificate if requested
- TM.30 address proof for extensions
Warning
Remote work for a foreign employer on a tourist stamp is not a substitute for Non-B. DTV covers overseas remote work — not a Thai payroll.
Extensions and reporting
Work permit expiry drives visa extension timing. Provincial Immigration offices ask for TM.30, work permit copy, and employer letter.
- 90-day reporting
- TM.30
- Re-entry permit if you travel while holding extensions
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Non-B visa (embassy) | 2,000 THB | Varies by post and single vs multiple entry |
| Work permit | 3,000– THB | Labour fee schedule; employer often pays |
| Visa extension | 1,900 THB | Immigration cash fee guideline |
Changing employers
A new job usually means a new work permit and visa alignment. Do not start work at Company B while your permit still names Company A.
Frequently asked questions
Can I freelance on Non-B?
Generally no — permits tie you to a sponsoring employer and described duties.
Does BOI company status change the path?
BOI-promoted companies may use streamlined processes — employer HR confirms.
Can I convert from tourist to Non-B in Thailand?
Sometimes, with Labour pre-approval and Immigration discretion. Plan embassy route if unsure.
What if I work without a permit?
Fines, blacklisting risk, and employer penalties — do not accept informal arrangements.
