What Is a Work Permit in Thailand? Everything Foreigners and Employers Must Know

gentlelawlawfirm
Jul 23
2 min read

A Work Permit in Thailand is the legal document issued by the Ministry of Labour under the Working of Aliens Act B.E. 2551 (2008) that grants a foreign national the right to perform specific work for a designated employer in Thailand. This article clarifies who needs a permit, how to apply, key conditions, penalties, and best practices for compliance.

Who Needs a Work Permit in Thailand?

Under Section 6 of the Working of Aliens Act B.E. 2551, any foreigner engaging in physical or intellectual activities for direct or indirect benefit—including consulting, managing, or attending meetings—must hold a valid work permit, regardless of payment status.

Limited Exceptions:

Diplomatic and consular officials
Government guest researchers
BOI‑approved experts under SMART Visas or fast‑track schemes

Key Inclusions of the Work Permit

A Thai Work Permit typically includes:

Permit holder’s name and nationality
Employer’s registered address and company name
Job title, duties, and work location
Validity period and permit number
Specific conditions or restrictions

Any work outside the listed scope or for another entity—even temporarily—constitutes a violation of Sections 11–12 of the Act.

Requirements for Applying for a Work Permit

For the Foreign Employee

Valid Non‑Immigrant B Visa
Physical presence in Thailand at submission
Certified copies of passport, education certificates, photographs, and medical certificate
No criminal record or disallowed profession

For the Employer

Thai company registration (or BOI entity)
Minimum paid‑up capital of THB 2 million per foreign staff
Employment of at least four Thai nationals per foreign permit (unless BOI‑exempt)
VAT registration, payroll, and office lease agreement

Step‑by‑Step Work Permit Process in Thailand

Obtain Non‑B Visa at a Thai consulate overseas
Enter Thailand and organize required documents
Submit Application to the Department of Employment—typically 5–10 business days for approval
Receive Permit Book (blue booklet or digital version)
Immigration Reporting every 90 days and annual renewal

Important: Beginning work before permit issuance is illegal, even with a valid visa.

Penalties for Non‑Compliance

Violation	Foreigner Penalty	Employer Penalty
Working without a permit	Fine up to THB 50,000 + deportation	Fine up to THB 100,000
Working beyond permitted duties	Permit revocation	Suspension, fine
Employing excess foreigners without quota	Permit refusal	Blacklisting, legal sanction