Can I work in Thailand on a B Visa?


Immigration in Thailand

So it’s not really a requirement that I have to obtain a work permit or can I simply work in Thailand on my business visa?

The You cannot work legally in Thailand without a work permit. And a non-immigrant “B” visa is required and should be obtained first to apply for a work permit. It is illegal to work in Thailand without a valid visa and work permit.

There is a common misconception that the “B” visa allows you to work in Thailand. This is incorrect as stated as it only allows you to apply for a work permit while in Thailand. The “Business” visa is not a work visa as there is no such visa which allows you to work in Thailand.

 

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15 Comments

  1. Gavin
    October 11, 2020
    Reply

    Hi, I am from the United Kingdom my wife is thinking about taking an English teachers job next year. Would I be able to get a job in the construction industry and what visa’s would we require.

    Thanks

  2. Andrew
    August 1, 2018
    Reply

    My employer insists I can work on an “o” visa. My u derstanding is “o” allows you to apply for work permit, but to work a “b” visa is required.
    Could you clarify please ie can I legally work without a “b” visa. Can I work with an “o” visa plus work permit.
    Yes or no?

    • August 1, 2018

      To better understand your situation because there are different types of Non-immigrant O. I suggest to call our office.
      Siam Legal International
      02 259 8100
      look for Mr. Rex

  3. Observer
    July 17, 2018
    Reply

    How to change from extension of stay based on retirement to a work permit visa?

    Can i do it without going out of thailand?

    • July 17, 2018

      You can not obtain a work permit under retirement visa. You have to change your visa either to Marriage visa ( Non-Immigrant O) or Non-immigrant Business visa to obtain a work permit.

  4. so
    June 24, 2018
    Reply

    hi,i am egyptian ,i married thai lady ,currently i live in thailand ,would like how to get work permit as i have non o visa or as i am married thai lady do i have the right to get work permit and find work in thailand?

    • June 26, 2018

      If you can find an Thai employer then you are eligible to apply for a work permit.
      If you need assistance in obtaining work permit kindly contact us at [email protected]

  5. l r seervi
    July 26, 2017
    Reply

    i come from India arrival in Bangkok – Don Mueang airport can i get visa on arrival on Don Mueang airport

    • August 10, 2017

      Dear I R Seervi

      For Indian National holding Indian passport, you can enter Thailand under visa on arrival ( 15days) at any International airport in Thailand.

      Johnc

  6. Scott Currie
    June 27, 2016
    Reply

    Hi,

    I recently completed a tefl course and will be looking to work teaching English in Thailand, preferably starting in October. I was considering coming to Thailand at the start of September ahead of then on a 90 day visa to acclimatize myself and look for position while in country (I have been informed it is better to apply for these roles when in country, due to a number of timewasters securing jobs here and changing their mind about relocating).

    Would a 90 day Non-immigrant visa be suitable for this?
    Do I need a flight out of Thailand arranged before arriving?

    Thanks in advance!

    • July 1, 2016

      If you have not yet obtained a contract to be employed by a school in Thailand, you will not be issued a 90-day non immigrant visa. We would suggest that you get in touch with the Thai embassy in your home country to determine the best visa option based on the purpose of your travel to Thailand.

  7. Tom
    June 10, 2016
    Reply

    Hi, I have all of the necessary documents to apply for an Immigrant B visa except for the ‘original bank letter’. Can you explain what that is?

    Thank you

    • June 15, 2016

      Kindly contact the Thai embassy or consulate where you plan to apply for the Non Immigrant B visa to inquire about this specific requirement.

  8. Anna Liza
    May 4, 2015
    Reply

    What are the requirement i need to comply to be able to apply non b visa from Philippines going here in Thailand? Is it true that I have to take TOEIC from Philippines or I can take here once I arrive..thank you very much