How Can I Apply for a Thai Work Visa Today?

Applying for a Thailand work visa involves several steps and requirements. Here’s a clear breakdown of the process:

1. Secure a Job Offer

Before applying for a work visa, you must have a job offer from a Thai company. The employer must be willing to sponsor your work permit.

2. Employer Applies for Work Permit Approval

Your prospective employer must apply for a pre-approval of your work permit from the Thai Ministry of Labour. This is often done alongside your visa application process.

3. Apply for a Non-Immigrant B Visa

Once the job is secured, you apply for a Non-Immigrant B Visa (Business Visa) from a Thai embassy or consulate outside Thailand.

Documents typically required:

• Valid passport (at least 6 months validity)

• Completed visa application form

• Recent passport-sized photo

• Copy of job offer or employment contract

• Letter of approval from the Ministry of Labour (or evidence it’s being processed)

• Company registration documents (provided by the employer)

Where to apply:

At a Thai embassy or consulate in your home country (e.g., the Royal Thai Embassy in New Delhi for Indians).

4. Enter Thailand

Once your Non-Immigrant B Visa is issued, you can travel to Thailand. This visa is usually valid for 90 days initially.

5. Apply for a Work Permit in Thailand

After arriving, your employer must apply for your official work permit at the Ministry of Labour. Processing usually takes 7–10 business days.

Required documents (provided by you and employer):

• Passport with B visa

• Non-Immigrant B visa copy

• Recent photos (3–4 cm)

• Education certificates

• Resume/CV

• Company documents (e.g., registration, VAT certificate, shareholder list)

6. Extend the Visa (Optional)

Once the work permit is granted, you can apply to extend your Non-Immigrant B visa from 90 days to 1 year at the Immigration Bureau.

7. 90-Day Reporting & Re-Entry Permit

• Every 90 days, you must report your address to immigration (online or in person).

• If you plan to leave Thailand and return during your visa period, get a re-entry permit to keep your visa valid.

Important Notes:

• Working in Thailand without a valid work permit is illegal.

• The employer must meet requirements (e.g., registered capital, Thai-to-foreigner staff ratio).

• Some jobs are prohibited for foreigners under Thai law (e.g., hairdressing, street vending).
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