Thailand tourist visa, work permit in Thailand, how to work legally in Thailand
Guide to Getting a Tourist Visa and Work Permit in Thailand (2025 Edition)
Thailand is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage. Every year, millions of travelers from around the world visit the country either for vacation, business, or even to settle down and work. If you are planning to travel to Thailand or considering staying longer for work, it’s important to understand the visa process and legal requirements—especially the tourist visa and work permit procedures.
In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to obtain a Thailand Tourist Visa , and what you need to do if you plan to work legally in the Kingdom.
1. What is a Thailand Tourist Visa?
A tourist visa is a type of visa that allows foreign nationals to enter Thailand temporarily for the purpose of tourism, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family.
Types of Tourist Visas:
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Visa Exemption: Citizens of certain countries can enter Thailand without a visa and stay up to 30 days.
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Single Entry Tourist Visa (SETV): Valid for 60 days, extendable for another 30 days at an immigration office.
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Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV): Valid for 6 months, allows multiple entries with 60-day stays per entry.
Documents Required:
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A valid passport (at least 6 months validity)
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Completed visa application form
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Passport-sized photos
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Proof of funds (e.g., bank statement showing at least 20,000 THB)
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Confirmed round-trip flight ticket
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Hotel reservation or proof of accommodation
How to Apply:
You can apply at a Thai embassy or consulate in your home country. Some embassies also offer online applications (eVisa) for added convenience.
2. Can I Work in Thailand with a Tourist Visa?
No, working in Thailand on a tourist visa is illegal.
If you are found working (even online or freelance work) while holding a tourist visa, you may face fines, detention, deportation, or a ban from re-entry. Thailand has strict immigration laws, and it’s crucial to have the correct visa and work permit before starting any type of job.
3. How to Work Legally in Thailand
If you wish to work in Thailand, you must obtain:
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A Non-Immigrant Visa Category "B" (commonly known as the Non-B Visa)
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A Work Permit issued by the Thai Ministry of Labour
Step-by-Step Process:
Step 1: Get a Job Offer
You need a confirmed job offer from a Thai company. Your employer will play a vital role in sponsoring your visa and work permit.
Step 2: Apply for a Non-B Visa
You can apply for this visa from outside Thailand at a Thai embassy or consulate. Your employer will provide the necessary documentation, including:
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Employment contract
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Company registration documents
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Letter of invitation
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Tax documents
Once approved, you will receive a Non-B Visa , usually valid for 90 days initially.
Step 3: Apply for a Work Permit
After arriving in Thailand, your employer will submit a work permit application to the Department of Employment. Once issued, the work permit will specify your job title, location, and employer.
Step 4: Extend Your Visa
After receiving your work permit, you can extend your Non-B Visa to a 1-year stay permit. This extension must be done at the immigration office.
4. Key Requirements for a Work Permit
To be eligible for a work permit in Thailand, you generally need:
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A valid Non-B Visa
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A Thai employer or registered company
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An occupation that is not on the prohibited list (e.g., certain crafts or manual labor are reserved for Thai nationals)
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A degree or relevant experience for the job
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A clean criminal record
5. Common Jobs for Foreigners in Thailand
Foreigners in Thailand often work in:
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Teaching English or other languages
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IT and software development
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Hospitality & tourism industry
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Marketing and digital content
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International business or liaison roles
Make sure the job fits legal guidelines and is approved by the labor office.
6. Important Notes
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You cannot apply for a work permit on a tourist visa.
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Working without a permit—even unpaid or volunteer work—can result in serious legal consequences.
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You must always carry a copy of your passport and visa for ID checks.
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Visa and immigration rules may change, so check with the Thai Immigration Bureau or consult with a licensed visa agent for up-to-date information.
7. FAQs
Q: Can I change my tourist visa to a work visa while in Thailand?
A: It is possible, but not easy. Most applicants are required to leave Thailand and apply from a Thai embassy abroad.
Q: Can I work remotely for a foreign company while in Thailand on a tourist visa?
A: Technically, this is a grey area. Thai law prohibits working without a permit, and this can include remote work. The safest option is to apply for the appropriate visa and work permit.
Q: How long does it take to get a work permit?
A: It usually takes 7–14 business days, depending on your employer’s documentation and the province you're applying in.
8. Final Thoughts
Whether you're visiting Thailand for a short vacation or planning to stay longer for work, understanding the visa and work permit process is crucial. The country welcomes millions of visitors every year, but it also enforces its laws strictly—especially regarding employment.
To avoid problems and ensure a smooth experience, plan ahead. If you are unsure, consider consulting a licensed visa agency or immigration lawyer who can help guide you through the process legally and efficiently.
Bonus Tip: Use Trusted Visa Services
If you're overwhelmed by the paperwork or unsure about the process, many reputable visa service companies in Thailand can assist you in securing your tourist visa, Non-B visa, and work permit. They can also help with visa renewals, 90-day reporting, and permanent residency applications.
If you're planning to stay in Thailand, do it the right way. Respect the rules, follow the process, and you'll enjoy everything this amazing country has to offer.
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