{"id":147348,"date":"2026-09-07T10:35:13","date_gmt":"2026-09-07T10:35:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/?post_type=comparative_guide&#038;p=147348"},"modified":"2026-09-07T10:35:13","modified_gmt":"2026-09-07T10:35:13","slug":"thailand-corporate-immigration","status":"publish","type":"comparative_guide","link":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/chapter\/thailand-corporate-immigration\/","title":{"rendered":"Thailand: Corporate Immigration"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"template":"","class_list":["post-147348","comparative_guide","type-comparative_guide","status-publish","hentry","guides-corporate-immigration","jurisdictions-thailand"],"acf":[],"appp":{"post_list":{"below_title":"<div class=\"guide-author-details\"><span class=\"guide-author\">SOPLaw<\/span><span class=\"guide-author-logo\"><img src=\"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/1\/2026\/08\/SOPLAW-Logo-Cream.jpg\"\/><\/span><\/div>"},"post_detail":{"above_title":"<div class=\"guide-author-details\"><span class=\"guide-author\">SOPLaw<\/span><span class=\"guide-author-logo\"><img src=\"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/1\/2026\/08\/SOPLAW-Logo-Cream.jpg\"\/><\/span><\/div>","below_title":"<span class=\"guide-intro\">This country specific Q&amp;A provides an overview of Corporate Immigration laws and regulations applicable in Thailand<\/span><div class=\"guide-content\"><div class=\"filter\">\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t<input type=\"text\" placeholder=\"Search questions and answers...\" class=\"filter-container__search-field\">\r\n\t\t\t<\/div>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t<ol class=\"custom-counter\">\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the relevant government entities relating to immigration in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Thailand&#8217;s business immigration system is administered by several government authorities, each having responsibility for different aspects of the immigration and employment process.<\/p>\n<p>The Immigration Bureau under the Royal Thai Police is responsible for visa administration, permission to stay, extensions of stay, re-entry permits, 90-day reporting, permanent residence applications and other immigration matters under the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979).<\/p>\n<p>The Department of Employment, Ministry of Labour, is responsible for work authorization under the Emergency Decree on the Management of Foreign Workers B.E. 2560 (2017), as amended. As a general rule, visas do not themselves authorize employment in Thailand. Foreign nationals intending to work in Thailand must obtain a work permit or other lawful work authorization issued by the Department of Employment, unless an exemption applies.<\/p>\n<p>For companies promoted by the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI), immigration and work permit matters are administered through the Thailand Investment and Expat Services Center (TIESC), which provides an integrated service for qualifying investors, executives, specialists and their eligible family members.<\/p>\n<p>Other authorities may also become involved depending on the immigration category, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through Thai embassies and consulates overseas, which issue visas prior to entry into Thailand.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the options available for sponsor-based employment in your jurisdiction and timelines involved in securing a work permit?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>The principal route for employment-based immigration is sponsorship by a Thai employer.<\/p>\n<p>Under the standard immigration framework, a foreign national intending to work in Thailand generally first obtains a Non-Immigrant &#8220;B&#8221; (Business) Visa, enters Thailand, and then applies for a work permit issued by the Department of Employment. Accompanying spouses and eligible family members generally enter Thailand on Non-Immigrant &#8220;O&#8221; (Dependent) Visas.<\/p>\n<p>Where the foreign national remains outside Thailand, the sponsoring employer may first obtain a WP32, work permit pre-approval from the Department of Employment. Following approval, the employee applies for a Non-Immigrant &#8220;B&#8221; Visa at the competent Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate abroad before entering Thailand to complete the work permit process.<\/p>\n<p>The sponsoring employer is responsible for supporting both the work permit application and subsequent visa extension application by providing the required corporate documentation together with the employee&#8217;s personal documentation, including passport details, educational qualifications, employment history and other supporting information.<\/p>\n<p>For employers promoted by the Board of Investment (BOI), applications may be processed through the Thailand Investment and Expat Services Center (TIESC). Under current BOI administrative procedures, work permit approval is commonly obtained within five to ten working days and is generally granted for an initial period of one year, renewable annually. In addition, BOI procedures permit qualifying applicants to commence work from the date the online work permit application is submitted through the BOI system, notwithstanding that the physical work permit has not yet been issued.<\/p>\n<p>By contrast, applicants proceeding under the standard (non-BOI) system may not commence work until the Department of Employment has formally issued the work permit.<\/p>\n<p>Where no exemption applies and urgent work must be performed in Thailand, foreign nationals may in certain circumstances apply for an Urgent Work Permit (UWP). This mechanism is commonly used for technical inspections, machinery repairs, installation supervision, specialised training, troubleshooting, internal audits and other urgent assignments prescribed by the Department of Employment. A UWP generally permits qualifying work for up to 15 days, with a possible extension of up to a further 15 days in appropriate circumstances.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the primary options available for unsponsored work and investment in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Thailand offers a limited number of immigration routes that do not require sponsorship by a conventional Thai employer.<\/p>\n<p>The principal option is the Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa, introduced to attract high-potential foreign nationals, including wealthy global citizens, wealthy pensioners, work-from-Thailand professionals and highly skilled professionals. Depending on the category, applicants generally qualify based on personal wealth, overseas employment, professional expertise or investment rather than local employment.<\/p>\n<p>Thailand also offers the SMART Visa programme for qualifying professionals, investors, executives and start-up entrepreneurs operating within targeted industries. Eligible SMART Visa holders benefit from streamlined immigration procedures and, in certain circumstances, are exempt from obtaining a conventional work permit.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, Thailand has introduced the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) for qualifying remote workers, freelancers and participants in prescribed activities. The DTV facilitates long-term stays in Thailand but is not an employment visa and does not authorise employment with a Thai employer.<\/p>\n<p>Foreign investors establishing or investing in Thai businesses may also qualify for employment authorisation where they satisfy the applicable requirements under the Immigration Act, labour legislation and, where applicable, the investment promotion regime administered by the Board of Investment (BOI).<\/p>\n<p>Although Thai legislation generally requires a work permit for foreigners working in Thailand, the legal position regarding remote work performed exclusively for overseas employers remains subject to case-by-case assessment. The permissibility of such arrangements depends on the nature of the activities performed, the source of remuneration, the individual&#8217;s immigration status and the applicable immigration, employment and tax laws.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the requirements for becoming a sponsor of employment-based migrants and what are the role and reporting duties of sponsors?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>A sponsoring employer must generally be a duly registered Thai entity carrying on a genuine business in Thailand and capable of employing foreign nationals in accordance with the applicable immigration and labour laws.<\/p>\n<p>Unlike some jurisdictions, Thailand does not impose a fixed statutory cap on the number of foreign employees a company may sponsor. However, several regulatory requirements effectively limit sponsorship capacity.<\/p>\n<p>Under the standard work permit regime, employers are generally expected to maintain a ratio of at least four Thai employees for every foreign employee sponsored for a work permit. The Thai employees are generally expected to be actively employed and registered with the Social Security Office.<\/p>\n<p>In addition, the authorities generally consider the company&#8217;s paid-up capital. As administrative practice, companies are commonly expected to maintain THB 2 million of fully paid-up capital per foreign employee, or THB 1 million per foreign employee where the employee is married to a Thai national, although the applicable requirements may vary depending on the circumstances.<\/p>\n<p>Sponsors are responsible for preparing and submitting the work permit and immigration applications, maintaining supporting corporate documentation and notifying the relevant authorities of material changes affecting the employee&#8217;s immigration status.<\/p>\n<p>Where employment terminates, the employer is required to notify the relevant authorities and arrange for cancellation of the employee&#8217;s work permit. The employee must then regularise his or her immigration status or depart Thailand within the applicable timeframe. For BOI-promoted companies, advance notification through the BOI system may allow a temporary extension of stay to facilitate lawful departure, subject to current administrative practice.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are applications filed electronically, or paper base? Is a physical visa\/work permit document issued or is an electronic approval issued?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Thailand currently operates a hybrid system comprising both electronic and paper-based application procedures.<\/p>\n<p>Applications for visas at Thai Embassies and Consulates are now predominantly submitted through the e-Visa system, although the availability of electronic filing depends on the relevant overseas mission.<\/p>\n<p>Within Thailand, applications for extensions of stay, re-entry permits, 90-day reporting and other immigration matters are generally submitted to the Immigration Bureau. While certain appointments and notifications may be made electronically, applicants are typically required to submit original supporting documents in paper form.<\/p>\n<p>For work permits, the Department of Employment has introduced an online application system. However, in practice, the system is still being progressively implemented, and applicants are frequently required to submit original documents and complete parts of the process in person. Accordingly, work permit applications continue to involve both electronic submission and paper-based documentation.<\/p>\n<p>For BOI-promoted companies, visa and work permit applications are processed primarily through the BOI&#8217;s online system administered by the Thailand Investment and Expat Services Center (TIESC). BOI applicants generally benefit from a substantially digitalised process, although original documents may still be requested where necessary.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Is an in-person attendance\/interview required as part of the visa\/work permit application process? Is an individual required to enrol their biometrics (digital photo, fingerprint scan) as part of the visa\/work permit process?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Visa applications lodged outside Thailand may require the applicant to attend the relevant Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate where required by local procedures.<\/p>\n<p>Within Thailand, foreign nationals commonly attend the Immigration Bureau or the competent provincial Immigration Office in person when applying for annual extensions of stay, re-entry permits and certain other immigration procedures. Work permit holders and their accompanying family members may also be required to attend personally depending upon the nature of the application.<\/p>\n<p>Applications relating to BOI-promoted companies are largely processed electronically through TIESC, although personal attendance may still be required for particular procedures or document verification.<\/p>\n<p>Thailand does not impose a universal interview requirement for all business immigration applications.<\/p>\n<p>Biometric requirements vary depending on the nature of the application and current administrative practice. Digital photographs are routinely collected as part of immigration processing, while fingerprints may be taken where required by the Immigration Bureau or other competent authorities.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What persons qualify as dependants? Can dependants work based on their dependant visa status? Are there any restrictions?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Eligible dependants generally include the legally recognised spouse and dependent children of the principal visa holder, subject to the applicable requirements prescribed by the Immigration Bureau. Following the legalization of same-sex marriage in Thailand, same-sex spouses are generally entitled to the same immigration benefits as opposite-sex spouses and may apply for dependent status where the principal applicant holds an eligible immigration status.<\/p>\n<p>Dependants accompanying foreign employees generally obtain Non-Immigrant &#8220;O&#8221; (Dependent) Visas. Eligible family members may also accompany holders of BOI-sponsored visas, LTR Visas, SMART Visas and other qualifying immigration categories, subject to the applicable regulations.<\/p>\n<p>A dependant visa does not itself confer the right to work in Thailand. Any dependant intending to undertake employment must obtain separate work authorisation or qualify under another immigration category that permits employment. Where eligible, a dependant may apply to change his or her immigration status, for example from dependant status to an employment-based visa, subject to the approval of the Immigration Bureau and satisfaction of the applicable requirements.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What is the general time frame and processes for obtaining permanent residence and citizenship for sponsored and unsponsored business-related immigration?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Thailand does not provide an automatic pathway from temporary employment status to permanent residence or citizenship. Foreign nationals must satisfy separate statutory requirements for each stage.<\/p>\n<p>Applicants for permanent residence must generally have entered Thailand on a Non-Immigrant Visa and maintained continuous permission to stay in Thailand for at least three consecutive years immediately preceding the application. Applications may be made under several categories, including employment or business, investment, family relationships and special expertise beneficial to Thailand. Employment-based applicants are generally expected to demonstrate appropriate professional qualifications, stable employment, satisfactory income and tax contributions, together with an ability to communicate in the Thai language. Applications are subject to an annual quota of 100 applicants per nationality, together with an additional quota for stateless persons, and may only be submitted during the application period announced annually by the Immigration Bureau. For 2026, applications are accepted from 9 March to 3 April 2026. Processing generally takes one to three years.<\/p>\n<p>Foreign nationals who have held permanent residence and an Alien Registration Certificate for at least five consecutive years may generally become eligible to apply for Thai nationality by naturalisation. Applicants must demonstrate good character, sufficient income, Thai language proficiency and adequate knowledge of Thailand. While Thai law does not generally prohibit dual nationality, whether an applicant may retain his or her original nationality following naturalisation depends on the laws of the applicant&#8217;s country of nationality.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What productive type activities can a business visitor undertake and for how long?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Business visitors may undertake certain business-related activities without a work permit, provided such activities fall within the exemptions prescribed under Thai law. These generally include attending business meetings, conferences, seminars, exhibitions, trade fairs, business negotiations, site visits and technical seminars, provided the visitor does not organise or perform work at such events.<\/p>\n<p>Where the proposed activities constitute work and no exemption applies, the foreign national may be required to obtain an Urgent Work Permit (UWP) or submit the prescribed notification for urgent and necessary work, which generally permits qualifying activities for up to 15 days. Whether a particular activity qualifies for an exemption or requires work authorisation should be assessed on a case-by-case basis.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Can remote work be carried out from your country?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Thailand permits remote work under certain immigration categories, including the Long-Term Resident (LTR) Work-from-Thailand Professional Visa and the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) for qualifying remote workers.<\/p>\n<p>As a general rule, Thai law requires a foreign national working in Thailand to hold appropriate work authorisation. However, the legal position regarding remote work performed exclusively for an overseas employer while physically present in Thailand remains subject to case-by-case assessment, taking into account the nature of the activities, the source of remuneration, the individual&#8217;s immigration status and the applicable immigration, employment and tax laws.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are there any productive work \/ revenue generating activities that can be carried out as a visitor and without the need for a work permit? If so, what activities and for how long?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>As a general rule, foreign nationals must obtain work authorisation before engaging in work in Thailand. However, certain limited business activities, such as attending meetings, conferences, seminars, exhibitions, business negotiations and similar activities, may be undertaken without a work permit where they fall within the exemptions under Thai law. Whether an exemption applies depends on the nature of the activities and must be assessed on a case-by-case basis.<\/p>\n<p>Where no exemption is available, an Urgent Work Permit (UWP) may be obtained for prescribed urgent and necessary activities for up to 15 days, with a possible extension of a further 15 days. The UWP is not intended for ordinary employment or revenue-generating business activities.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Is there a remote work or nomad visa category in your jurisdiction? If not, how likely is it that this will be implemented in future?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Thailand does not currently have a dedicated digital nomad visa. However, the Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa includes a Work-from-Thailand Professional category for qualifying remote workers employed by eligible overseas companies.<\/p>\n<p>Thailand also introduced the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), which permits eligible foreign nationals to stay in Thailand for extended periods. However, the DTV does not authorise employment with a Thai employer and should not be regarded as a work visa.<\/p>\n<p>The legal position regarding remote work performed exclusively for overseas employers remains uncertain and should be assessed on a case-by-case basis.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">How easy is it to switch visa categories\/jobs\/employer from within country? And\/or if made redundant, can the individual regularise their stay in another capacity and what is the timeframe allowable?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Thailand permits certain in-country changes of visa category, including conversions from dependant status to employment-based status and from standard visa categories to LTR or SMART Visas, subject to eligibility and Immigration Bureau approval.<\/p>\n<p>In practice, changing employers under the standard Non-Immigrant &#8220;B&#8221; Visa and work permit regime is often administratively complex and requires careful coordination. The existing employer must cancel the employee&#8217;s work permit, while the employee must regularise his or her immigration status within the applicable timeframe. The timing of the work permit cancellation, visa status and commencement of new employment is critical. If these steps are not properly coordinated, the employee may be required to leave Thailand and obtain a new Non-Immigrant &#8220;B&#8221; Visa from a Thai Embassy or Consulate abroad before returning to commence employment with the new employer. This can result in additional costs, administrative burden and business disruption. Careful planning is therefore essential when transferring foreign employees between employers.<\/p>\n<p>Where employment is terminated, the foreign national should promptly regularise his or her immigration status by obtaining another qualifying visa or departing Thailand. Depending on the circumstances, the Immigration Bureau may grant a short extension of stay to facilitate departure or a change of immigration status.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What common issues or concerns may arise for employers under business immigration in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Common compliance issues include ensuring that foreign employees hold valid work authorisation before commencing work, maintaining compliance with work permit conditions, satisfying Thai employee-to-foreigner ratios and paid-up capital requirements, reporting changes in employment status, and complying with 90-day reporting and visa renewal requirements. Employers should also ensure that foreign employees perform only the work authorised under their work permits.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Is there a fast track process \/ certification that business can obtain to expedite visa \/ permit processing?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Yes. Companies promoted by the Board of Investment (BOI) may process visa and work permit applications through the Thailand Investment and Expat Services Center (TIESC), which provides streamlined processing for eligible foreign employees. BOI-sponsored applicants may also benefit from immigration facilitation services, including access to designated fast-track immigration lanes at certain international airports.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the recent trends, both political and social that have impacted (or are anticipated to impact) your jurisdiction with regard to immigration policy and law?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Thailand continues to focus on attracting foreign investment, highly skilled professionals and long-term residents through initiatives such as the LTR Visa, SMART Visa and Destination Thailand Visa. At the same time, the authorities have increased enforcement of immigration and foreign employment laws, with greater emphasis on compliance, digitalisation of immigration procedures and closer scrutiny of visa and work permit applications. The overall trend is towards facilitating investment while strengthening regulatory oversight.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are there any new and \/ or anticipated changes impacting immigration law and \/ or policy in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Thailand continues to modernise its immigration system through increased digitalisation and enhanced compliance measures. Recent developments include the mandatory implementation of the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC), expanded online immigration services, and a review of visa policies to strengthen immigration control.<\/p>\n<p>Most notably, Thailand has recently revised its visa exemption regime by reducing the general visa-free stay from 60 days to 30 days (or 15 days for certain nationalities), reflecting a policy shift towards balancing tourism promotion with national security and immigration enforcement. The government is also expected to continue refining immigration procedures to facilitate foreign investment and the entry of highly skilled professionals while maintaining closer regulatory oversight.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">How do you see technology developing and evolving to support immigration process in the future?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Thailand is rapidly digitalising its immigration and work permit systems. BOI-promoted companies already benefit from a largely paperless process through the Single Window for Visa and Work Permit System, enabling online submission, processing and approval of visa and work permit applications. Following approval, applicants generally attend only for identity verification and visa endorsement in their passports, while the work permit is issued electronically and can be accessed through the Thailand Digital Work Permit application.<\/p>\n<p>The wider immigration system is also moving towards greater digitalisation through initiatives such as the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) and the new e-WorkPermit platform. Further integration between the Immigration Bureau, Department of Employment and other government agencies is expected to improve processing efficiency, reduce paperwork and enhance the overall user experience.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the Right to Work requirements in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Foreign nationals must hold both an appropriate immigration status and valid work authorisation before commencing work in Thailand. A visa does not, by itself, confer the right to work. Under the standard immigration framework, foreign employees typically enter Thailand on a Non-Immigrant &#8220;B&#8221; Visa and subsequently obtain a work permit issued by the Department of Employment.<\/p>\n<p>Foreign nationals may only perform work for the authorised employer, in the approved position, and in accordance with the conditions specified in the applicable work permit or other work authorisation. Subject to limited statutory exemptions, commencing work without the appropriate work authorisation constitutes a breach of Thai immigration and employment laws.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the types of civil and criminal penalties employers may face for non-compliance with immigration rules i.e. employing an individual who does not have the Right to Work?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Employers who engage foreign nationals without the appropriate work authorisation, or permit them to work outside the scope of their authorised employment, may face significant criminal and administrative penalties under Thai law. Depending on the nature of the breach, the authorities may impose monetary penalties, imprisonment for serious or repeated offences, and restrictions on the employer&#8217;s ability to employ foreign nationals in the future.<\/p>\n<p>Foreign nationals working without the appropriate work authorisation may also be subject to criminal penalties, together with immigration consequences, including removal from Thailand and restrictions on future employment or re-entry, depending on the circumstances.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are there labour market testing requirements in your jurisdiction and if so, what do they involve?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Thailand does not operate a formal labour market testing regime. Employers are not generally required to advertise positions locally or demonstrate that no suitably qualified Thai national is available before employing a foreign national.<\/p>\n<p>However, employers seeking to sponsor foreign employees under the standard work permit regime must satisfy the applicable statutory and administrative requirements, including those relating to the Thai employee-to-foreign employee ratio, paid-up capital, and the employer&#8217;s ability to support the proposed employment. Different requirements may apply to companies promoted by the Board of Investment (BOI).<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are there quota requirements, restrictions or a cap on the numbers of foreign nationals hired per company in your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Thailand does not impose a fixed statutory quota or numerical cap on the number of foreign nationals that a company may employ under the general work permit regime. However, an employer&#8217;s ability to sponsor foreign employees is subject to prescribed statutory and administrative requirements, including the Thai employee-to-foreign employee ratio and minimum paid-up capital requirements. As a general guideline, employers are expected to maintain four Thai employees and THB 2 million in paid-up capital for each foreign employee, subject to certain exceptions.<\/p>\n<p>Different rules apply to companies promoted by the Board of Investment (BOI). Under BOI Notification No. Por. 8\/2568, the approval of foreign personnel is subject to prescribed qualification criteria and, for certain BOI-promoted manufacturing projects, workforce ratio requirements. Accordingly, the number of foreign personnel that may be approved depends on the nature of the promoted activity and compliance with the applicable BOI criteria, rather than solely on the general work permit regime.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are there any exit procedures in your jurisdiction, if an individual is departing permanently?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>There is no formal exit clearance procedure upon departure from Thailand. However, where a foreign national is employed in Thailand, the employer should notify the Department of Employment of the termination of employment and cancel the employee&#8217;s work permit. The foreign national should also cancel or regularise his or her permission to stay with the Immigration Bureau before departing Thailand. Any visa extension granted on the basis of employment will generally cease upon termination of employment and should not be used for subsequent travel. Failure to regularise immigration status before departure may result in overstay penalties and other immigration consequences.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are there any requirements for medical certificates or vaccinations for your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Vaccination records are generally not required for employment-based immigration in Thailand. However, applicants under the standard work permit regime are generally required to submit a medical certificate issued by a licensed physician confirming that they do not suffer from any of the prescribed prohibited diseases under Thai law. In practice, the examination typically includes a physical examination and may include laboratory testing, such as blood tests, and a chest X-ray, depending on the medical provider&#8217;s assessment and standard examination procedures. Different documentary requirements may apply to applications processed under the Board of Investment (BOI) regime.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are there any language requirements for your jurisdiction?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>There are no Thai language requirements for obtaining employment-based visas or work permits. However, applicants for permanent residence and Thai nationality by naturalisation are generally expected to demonstrate an appropriate level of Thai language proficiency as part of the application process. In particular, naturalisation applicants are required to demonstrate an ability to speak and understand Thai and a basic knowledge of Thailand, including satisfying the interview requirements prescribed by the competent authorities.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the government costs associated with a typical employment based visa?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Government fees vary depending on the type of visa, work authorisation and duration of stay. For a standard employment arrangement, the total government fees typically start from approximately THB 8,800 (approximately USD 293, based on an exchange rate of THB 30 = USD 1), covering a one-year work permit, one-year extension of stay and a multiple re-entry permit. Additional fees may apply for visa issuance at Thai Embassies or Consulates abroad, visa conversion and other immigration services. BOI-promoted companies follow a different administrative process, although the applicable government fees are generally comparable.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Is a local contract of employment required in order to obtain a work based visa or work permit? Are there salary or other thresholds to be met by the migrant?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>A local employment contract is generally required to support applications for a Non-Immigrant &#8220;B&#8221; Visa, work permit and extension of stay. The authorities will also consider the applicant&#8217;s qualifications, proposed position and the employer&#8217;s business activities.<\/p>\n<p>For annual extensions of stay based on employment, the Immigration Bureau applies administrative minimum salary guidelines according to the employee&#8217;s nationality. As a general guideline, the minimum monthly salary ranges from THB 25,000 to THB 50,000 (approximately USD 830\u20131,670). Different requirements may apply to companies promoted by the Board of Investment (BOI), applicants under special immigration programmes, or where specific legislation provides otherwise.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the maximum periods of stay for individuals on an employment based visa \/ work permit?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Under the standard employment regime, a foreign national may be granted an extension of stay for employment purposes for up to one year, although certain categories of applicants may be granted permission to stay for up to two years, subject to continued compliance with the applicable requirements. Such extensions may be renewed, provided the qualifying conditions continue to be satisfied.<\/p>\n<p>Eligible applicants under the Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa programme may be granted permission to stay for up to 10 years (initially five years, renewable for a further five years), subject to continued eligibility.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Does your jurisdiction allow dual nationality?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Thailand permits dual nationality in practice, although the Nationality Act does not establish an unrestricted general right to hold multiple nationalities. Thai nationals who acquire another nationality do not automatically lose Thai nationality; loss generally requires a legally prescribed process, such as approved renunciation, revocation or a formal declaration of loss. The Department of Consular Affairs has also expressly stated that Thai nationals may hold two nationalities.<\/p>\n<p>For foreign nationals who acquire Thai nationality by naturalisation, the application process may require evidence of an intention to renounce their existing nationality. Whether the original nationality is actually lost depends on the law of the other country and the circumstances of the case. Accordingly, dual-nationality status should be assessed individually.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">What are the most positive aspects of your immigration system compared to the rest of the world?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Thailand offers a diverse range of immigration pathways to accommodate different categories of foreign nationals, including business travellers, executives, skilled professionals, retirees and high-net-worth individuals. In addition to conventional employment-based visas, Thailand offers specialised programmes such as the Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa, as well as well-established Retirement Visa and Thailand Privilege (Elite) Visa programmes, providing flexible long-term residence options for eligible applicants.<\/p>\n<p>Thailand also benefits from a pragmatic and business-oriented approach to immigration administration. Subject to continued compliance with the applicable requirements, employment-based permission to stay may generally be renewed without a statutory limit. The continued digitalisation of visa and work permit procedures, particularly for BOI-promoted companies, together with comparatively competitive government fees, further enhances Thailand&#8217;s attractiveness as a destination for international businesses and foreign talent.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are you facing any challenges resulting from a shortage of skills. If yes, which skills?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Yes. Thailand continues to experience shortages of highly skilled professionals in strategic industries supporting its long-term economic development. The most significant demand is for specialists in semiconductors and advanced electronics, artificial intelligence (AI), digital technologies, cybersecurity, cloud computing, biotechnology, renewable energy, electric vehicles (EVs), and advanced manufacturing. As a result, many employers continue to rely on foreign executives, engineers and technical specialists to support technology transfer and business expansion.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"question-block filter-container__element\">\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"filter-container__match-html\">Are there any plans in place to address green skills and\/or to support transition to green economies\u2019?<\/h3>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<button id=\"show-me\">+<\/button>\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"question_answer filter-container__match-html\" style=\"display:none;\"><p>Yes. Thailand continues to support the transition to a green economy through its Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) Economy Model and investment promotion policies administered by the Board of Investment (BOI). Government incentives encourage investment in renewable energy, electric vehicles, battery technologies, biotechnology, environmental technologies and other sustainable industries. These initiatives are intended to attract investment, develop domestic expertise and facilitate the transfer of technology and skills needed to support Thailand&#8217;s long-term sustainability objectives.<\/p>\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t\t\r\n<div class=\"word-count-hidden\" style=\"display:none;\">Estimated word count: <span class=\"word-count\">4919<\/span><\/div>\r\n\r\n\t\t\t<\/ol>\r\n\r\n<script type=\"text\/javascript\" src=\"\/wp-content\/themes\/twentyseventeen\/src\/jquery\/components\/filter-guides.js\" async><\/script><\/div>"}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comparative_guide\/147348","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comparative_guide"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/comparative_guide"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/my.legal500.com\/guides\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=147348"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}