Obtaining a work visa for Thailand: Things you should know

It is always exciting to work in a new country. And when that country is as colourful and wonderful as Thailand, your enthusiasm multiplies! If you are thinking about moving to Thailand and working there, you will need a work visa for Thailand. What kind of a visa is this and how to get it? Let's find out in the article below.

Important things to remember when getting a work visa for Thailand

1. Secure a job

The first and foremost important thing to do is get a job in a Thai organisation, or in an international organisation that has an office in Thailand. Unless you have a valid job offer, your visa will not be processed. Some of the lucrative jobs to pursue in Thailand include:

◦ Teaching

◦ Skilled worker

◦ Special worker

◦ Entrepreneur

See if you can find employment in any of these areas. Once you do so, proceed to get your work visa made and reach Thailand promptly.

2. Get a non-immigrant visa

The type of visa you need to live and work in Thailand as a foreigner is the non-immigrant B visa. You can get this visa when you work in any of the categories mentioned above. Unless you have a non-immigrant B visa, which is the accepted and valid work permit for Thailand, you cannot seek employment in the country.

3. Apply ahead of time

The visa application process can be time-consuming. So if you have a joining date, make sure you initiate the process as soon as possible. You may need time to procure the documents, schedule an appointment and then wait for the visa to reach you. Therefore, rather than waiting until the last minute, start working on it right away!

4. You have to pay a fee

It is important to remember that at the time of the application for a non-immigrant B visa, you have to pay a fee. This is a non-refundable, one-time payment and is about TBH 3000 for a year.

Keep these logical points in mind when you look to apply for a work visa for Thailand. Follow the correct protocols and your visa will be issued without too many hassles.

Tips to get the visa smoothly

Now that have more information about the visa, its type and the requirements, here are some tips to help you get the visa quickly:

1. Get going

As mentioned above, the visa process takes time. You have to take the application and the processing time into account when you calculate your estimated day of arrival in Thailand and your consequent day of joining the job. Hence, be proactive and initiate the process without delay.

2. Consider working with an agent

There are many specialised immigration agents who help you with the visa process. Choose a reputed and trustworthy agent who can genuinely help you to get the visa. However, be very careful here and choose a good agent. There are many incompetent and even fake agents who simply want your money and seldom offer any help. Hire a good agent and get the job done.

3. Get all the documents ready

If you are hiring an agent, they will tell you all about the documents you need to carry when applying for a work visa for Thailand. Alternatively, you can also check on the official website or ask your employer to help you out. Ensure you have all the proper documents as an error in the paperwork can stall the visa and create unnecessary problems for you.

Once you follow these tips, it will become easier for you to get a Thailand work visa and start your new career in the country.