Working in Thailand: Non-Immigrant B Visa and Work Permit
Working Legally in Thailand
To work legally in Thailand, you need two separate documents: a Non-Immigrant B visa (to enter the country) and a Work Permit (issued by the Thai Ministry of Labour). One cannot function without the other.
Visa B vs Work Permit: What's the Difference?
Non-Immigrant B Visa
- • Authorizes entry into Thailand for professional purposes
- • Issued by the embassy/consulate before departure
- • Initial duration: 90 days
- • Does not permit working on its own
Work Permit (WP)
- • Authorizes the exercise of professional activity
- • Issued by the Ministry of Labour after arrival
- • Tied to a specific employer and position
- • Required even for company directors
The Non-Immigrant B Visa in Detail
Single Entry
- Length of stay
- 90 days
- Validity
- 3 months
- Entries
- 1 entry
- Consular fees
- 2,000 THB (~€55)
Multiple Entries
- Duration per entry
- 90 days
- Validity
- 1 year
- Entries
- Unlimited
- Consular fees
- 5,000 THB (~€135)
Once in Thailand with your Visa B, your employer can request a one-year extension from the immigration office. This extension is renewed annually as long as you hold a valid Work Permit.
The Work Permit
The Work Permit is the document that actually authorizes you to perform professional work. It is tied to your employer and a specific position. If you change companies, a new Work Permit must be obtained.
Work Permit Characteristics
Required Documents
Valid passport
Valid for at least 6 months, with blank pages for visa and entry stamps.
WP32 letter from employer
Official letter from the Thai employer inviting the employee and detailing the position, salary and contract duration.
Employment contract
Copy of the employment contract signed by both parties, stating the salary (min. 50,000 THB/month for most Western nationalities).
Degrees and CV
Certified copies of your degrees and a detailed CV showing your relevant experience for the position.
Company documents
Certificate of registration, shareholder list, financial statements, VAT registration of the Thai company.
Passport photos
2 photos (4×6 cm) white background, recent.
TDAC
Digital Arrival Card mandatory for each entry into Thailand.
Need help with your work visa?
Our team handles everything: eligibility check, document preparation, coordination with your employer.
Step-by-Step Process
Secure a job offer
Find a Thai employer willing to sponsor you. The position must justify hiring a foreigner (skills not available locally).
Employer prepares WP32 file
The company prepares the WP32 invitation letter and gathers corporate documents (registration, financials, staff list).
Apply for Visa B at the embassy
With the WP32 letter and your personal documents, submit your application at the Thai embassy or consulate. Processing: 5 to 15 business days.
Arrive in Thailand
Enter Thailand with your Visa B (don't forget the TDAC). You receive a 90-day stamp.
Apply for Work Permit
Your employer files the Work Permit application with the Department of Employment. Processing: 7 to 30 days. You must NOT start working before receiving the WP.
Extend Visa B to 1 year
Once the WP is obtained, your employer can request the extension of your Visa B to 1 year from immigration.
Occupations Prohibited for Foreigners
Thailand reserves certain occupations exclusively for its citizens. Working in any of these fields without authorization is a criminal offence. Here are the main categories:
The full list includes 40 regulated occupations. The Royal Decree on Occupations Prohibited for Foreigners (B.E. 2522) is regularly updated.
Are you a digital nomad or freelancer?
If you work remotely for foreign clients or an employer abroad, the work visa is not suited to your situation. The DTV (Destination Thailand Visa) was created specifically for you: 5 years validity, 180 days per entry, and no Work Permit needed.
Discover the DTV →Don't forget the TDAC
Even with a work visa, the Thailand Digital Arrival Card must be filled out before each entry into Thai territory.
Fill out my TDAC now →Need Help?
Check your eligibility for free and receive personalized assistance from our expert team.
Request AssistanceQuick Summary
- Duration
- 90 days (extendable to 1 year)
- Target
- Employees, entrepreneurs
Other Visas
Need help with your Working in Thailand: Non-Immigrant B Visa and Work Permit?
Our expert team guides you through every step: eligibility check, document preparation, and full application follow-up.