+66 62 714 2222 service@ethaivisa.com 09.00–18.00 (Mon – Sat)

For expatriates and international businesses

Thailand work permits, handled from visa to approval

At ThaiExpatWorkPermit we specialise in simplifying the complex process of obtaining a work permit in Thailand. Our team is well-versed in Thai labour law and regulations, ensuring a hassle-free, successful application for expatriates and the businesses that employ them.

  • Non-B visa and work permit handled together
  • Result in roughly 7–15 working days
  • Renewals tracked so your permit never lapses

7–15

Working days to a result

฿3,000

Government fee

฿2M

Employer capital per permit

4 : 1

Thai staff per foreign hire

What is a work permit, and why does it matter?

A work permit is the legal document required for any foreigner working in Thailand. It is issued by the Department of Employment at the Ministry of Labour, and it regulates who may work, in which role, and for which employer — ensuring foreign hires fill the right positions without competing with the local workforce.

The permit is not the same thing as your visa, and the two cannot substitute for each other. Whether you are an expatriate planning a move or a company hiring foreign talent, holding the right pair of documents is what makes your employment in Thailand legal.

See the full qualifications and requirements

What is a work permit, and why does it matter?

Our services

From the first eligibility question to the permit in your hand — and every renewal after it — we manage the process against Thai labour law so that nothing is filed late, incomplete, or in the wrong office.

What we do

Expert consultation

Guidance on eligibility, required documentation and how the Thai work permit process actually runs.

Document preparation

We gather, organise and submit every required paper, ensuring accuracy and completeness the first time.

Seamless processing

From initial application to approval, we handle every step of the work permit process.

Renewal and compliance

Renewal filings and ongoing advice on staying compliant with Thai work regulations.

Who we serve

Individuals and organisations on every side of a foreign hire.

Expatriates

Foreign professionals seeking employment opportunities in Thailand, from first Non-B visa to annual renewals.

Businesses

Thai and international companies hiring foreign specialists, including the employer-side paperwork the Ministry requires.

Entrepreneurs & investors

Founders starting ventures in Thailand who need their own work authorisation set up correctly from day one.

The ThaiExpatWorkPermit advantage

In-depth local knowledge

Extensive, current knowledge of Thai immigration and labour law — including where the two overlap.

Personalised support

Solutions tailored to each individual and business, not a one-size template.

Efficiency & reliability

Timely processing and a high success rate in work permit approvals.

Dedicated client service

Your needs come first, for a stress-free application from start to finish.

Get a work permit in 3 easy steps

Three steps from first call to permit in hand:

  1. 1

    Consultation

    Free consultation on the work permit and visa. Choose our service and pay the fee to begin.

  2. 2

    Preparation & appointments

    Document checklist, gathering, coordination with the agencies involved and scheduling — with help at every step.

  3. 3

    Work permit result

    Receive the result in approximately 7–15 working days.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Thai work permit and who needs one?

A Thai work permit is a legal document issued by the Ministry of Labour that allows a foreign national to work legally in Thailand. It is required for all non-Thai citizens who intend to work here — business, teaching, or any other professional assignment.

Is the work permit the same as the Non-B visa?

No, and this is the most common misunderstanding. The Non-B visa lets you enter Thailand for work purposes and is issued by a Thai embassy abroad; the work permit lets you actually work and is issued by the Ministry of Labour after you arrive. You need both — one cannot substitute for the other.

What are the basic requirements to apply?

You need a non-immigrant visa (not tourist or transit), a job offer from an employer in Thailand, and qualifications and experience appropriate to the role. Supporting items typically include a medical certificate, a clean criminal record, and company documents from the employer such as registration papers and financial statements.

What does my employer need to qualify?

A Thai company must be a registered juristic person with at least 2 million THB of registered capital per work permit, and employ at least four Thai nationals per foreign hire. For foreign companies, the threshold is 3 million THB per permit. BOI-promoted businesses follow their own, separate rules.

How long does it take, and what does it cost?

Typically 7–15 working days after the documents are complete. The government fee is 3,000 THB, payable by credit or debit card only. Our service fee depends on the case — the first consultation is free and we quote in writing.

Can I work while my application is being processed?

No. You are not legally allowed to work in Thailand until the permit is officially granted. Working without one risks fines, imprisonment and deportation. The exception is a renewal: if you file before expiry, you may keep working while the renewal is under review.

Can I change employers with an existing work permit?

You must apply for a new one. A Thai work permit is specific to the employer, the position and the place of work — any change in employment means a fresh application and approval.

When should I renew, and what if I miss it?

File the renewal at least 30 days before expiry; each renewal is granted for up to one year. If a renewal is refused and work continues anyway, both employee and employer risk penalties — up to 3 months imprisonment, a fine up to 5,000 THB, or both. We track renewal dates for our clients so this never happens.

Start your work journey in Thailand with confidence

Let us handle the details so you can focus on the job. Contact us today for a free consultation — no obligation.