Working legally in Thailand as a foreigner requires two documents: a Non-B visa and a work permit. Most people understand they need both. Fewer understand that they are issued by different ministries, follow different processes, and must be managed separately throughout employment.
Quick Facts
- A work permit is job-specific and employer-specific. Change jobs, change permit.
- Government fee: 1,000 THB per year
- Processing time: 7-14 working days
- 4:1 Thai-to-foreign employee ratio required (except BOI companies)
- Physical booklet you are required to carry it at the workplace
Who Needs a Work Permit?
Any foreigner performing work in Thailand needs a work permit. Work includes: employment by a Thai company, self-employment through a Thai company structure, consulting or providing services to Thai entities for payment. Digital nomads working exclusively for overseas employers occupy a grey zone see the Digital Nomad guide.
39 Occupations Reserved for Thai Nationals
Certain occupations are reserved for Thai nationals by the Alien Working Act, regardless of work permit status. The most relevant to expats include: legal professional work, public accountancy, civil engineering and architectural work as licensed professionals, estate agency, hairdressing and beauty therapy, and skilled crafts using traditional Thai tools. Foreigners can work adjacent to these fields (in an accounting department, an engineering firm) but cannot perform the specifically reserved functions.
Work Permit Requirements
From You (the Employee)
- Valid Non-Immigrant B visa or qualifying Non-O visa
- Educational credentials relevant to the position
- Medical certificate from a Thai hospital or clinic (within 3 months) screens for leprosy, tuberculosis, elephantiasis, drug addiction, and alcoholism
- Passport-sized photos
- Completed application form
From Your Employer
- Affidavit of company registration (within 6 months)
- List of shareholders
- VAT registration certificate (Por Por 20)
- Employee list proving 4:1 Thai-to-foreign ratio
- Withholding tax filings (Por Ngor Dor 1) showing Thai employees on payroll
- Company financial statements
- Workplace lease agreement
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Work permit fee (1 year) | 1,000 THB |
| Work permit fee (2 years) | 2,000 THB |
| Work permit fee (3 years) | 3,000 THB |
| Medical certificate | 500-1,500 THB |
| Law firm fee (first application) | 10,000-30,000 THB |
The Digital Work Permit (e-Work Permit)
Thailand's e-Work Permit system allows many applications online via the Department of Employment website. Works well for straightforward renewals and some initial applications. Complex cases or first-time applications from companies submitting for the first time often benefit from in-person submission.
BOI Work Permits: The Faster Route
If your employer is BOI-promoted, both visa and work permit are processed through the BOI one-stop service at One Bangkok (formerly Chamchuri Square). This route is faster, requires fewer documents, and bypasses the 4:1 ratio rule. For foreigners with the option of working for a BOI vs non-BOI company, the administrative difference is substantial.
Renewing, Changing Employers, and Cancellation
Annual renewal: Re-submit updated company and personal documents. Faster than initial application. Changing employers: No transfer mechanism current employer cancels your permit, new employer applies for a new one. Employment ends: Work permit cancelled. Your Non-B extension may also be affected. Check with an immigration lawyer if employment ends unexpectedly.