Work Visa in Thailand

Foreign employees require work permits and/or residency permits for employment in Thailand. The work permit is sponsored by the employer.

How to apply for a work visa if the foreigner has not entered Thailand yet?

1. Employer MUST apply for the WP.32 Form or Work Permit Application Form for application made on behalf of a foreigner from the Department of Employment.
2. The employer is responsible for applying for a WP.32 on behalf of foreigner.
3. After submitting the application, Employer will receive a notice of consideration of work permit within 7-14 working days.
4. The employer must send the Notice of approval to the foreign, who is in the abroad for his/her evidence for applying for a Non-B Visa at Royal Thai Embassy or Royal Thai Consulate-General in his/her local country.

Work Permit: Sponsored by a Thailand Entity

Once obtain the Non-B Visa or Non-Immigrant B Visa and entered to TH:

1. MUST immediately apply the Work Permit within 90 days at the Department of Employment of Ministry of Labour.
2. The approval of the Work Permit application processing within 5-20 working days after submitted date.
3. The duration of the Work Permit is 3 months/ 6 months/ 1 year / 2 years (maximum) depends on the consideration of the Department of Employment Officer.

Types of Work Visas in Thailand

• Non-Immigrant Visa “B” (for Business and Work): Standard business/work visa for foreign employees.
• Non-Immigrant Visa “B-A” (Business Approved Visa): Business visa obtained with pre-approval from the Immigration Bureau.
• Non-Immigrant Visa “IB” (Investment and Business Visa): For BOI-sponsored investments.
• Non-Immigrant Visa “B” (Teaching): For foreign nationals teaching in Thailand.

Legal Reminders

A work permit is required before any work activity begins – even with a valid visa. Working without a permit is illegal and may result in consequences (prosecution and imprisonment or fines, or both penalties).

Please note that all the information listed below are to be used as a general guideline. For more detailed accounts of Thailand employment laws and regulations, please visit the official governmental websites.

Updated on: February 2026