Thailand Work Visa is a Category “B” of Thailand Non-Immigrant Visas

In Thailand, the requirement for a work visa depends on the nature and duration of the work being undertaken. Generally, individuals planning to work in Thailand, whether as an employee, freelancer, or business owner, will need a work permit and visa.

Here are some categories of individuals who typically need a Thailand work visa:

1. Foreign Employees: Individuals employed by Thai companies or organizations need a Non-Immigrant B visa to enter Thailand for work purposes. They must obtain a work permit once in Thailand, which is usually facilitated by their employer.
2. Freelancers and Consultants: Freelancers, consultants, and individuals providing services on a contract basis in Thailand also require a Non-Immigrant B visa and a work permit. They may need to provide evidence of their contractual agreements with Thai companies.
3. Business Owners and Investors: Foreign nationals who own businesses or invest in Thailand may need a business visa (Non-Immigrant B visa) if they intend to actively participate in managing their business operations.
4. Volunteers: Individuals participating in volunteer programs or projects in Thailand may require a Non-Immigrant O visa for volunteering purposes, depending on the duration and nature of their volunteer work.
5. Teachers and Educators: Foreign nationals employed as teachers or educators in Thai schools, universities, or language institutes typically require a Non-Immigrant B visa and a work permit.
6. Performers and Artists: Foreign performers, artists, and entertainers planning to work in Thailand may need a work permit and an appropriate visa, such as a Non-Immigrant O or B visa, depending on the nature of their performances and engagements.

It’s essential to consult with the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country or seek guidance from a legal expert familiar with Thai immigration laws to determine the specific visa and work permit requirements based on your circumstances. Regulations may vary depending on nationality, job position, and intended duration of stay.

When you submit an application for a Thailand Work visa, you need the following documents:

Your passport, which is valid for at least another six months and has at least two blank visa pages. If you’re applying for a one-year visa, your passport should be valid for at least another 18 months.
A completed and signed Thailand Work Visa application form. You may be able to download it from the website of the embassy/consulate or get it there if you apply in person.
Passport-sized picture of yourself, with the following specifications:
    Dimensions: 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm
    White background
    Taken within the last six months
    You must have a neutral facial expression, staring straight ahead
    Your entire face must be fully visible
    Headgear is only allowed for religious purposes and even then, only if it does not cover the face
    Glasses are allowed only if they do not cover your eyes and do not have heavy frames
Proof of sufficient financial means to cover the duration of your stay. You need 20,000 Thai Baht if you are travelling alone and 40,000 Thai Baht if you are travelling as a family.
Police clearance certificate
A Letter of Approval issued by the Thailand Ministry of Labour. Your employer in Thailand has to submit an approval request at the Office of Foreign Workers Administration in the Department of Employment of the Thai Ministry of Labour.
If you will work as a school teacher at a pre-university level:
    Letter of acceptance from the educational institution
    A Letter of Approval issued by a relevant Thai government agency, such as the Office of the Private Education Commission or the Office of the Basic Education Commission.
    The school’s license or business registration along with the list of stockholders and the school’s profile