Thailand Work Visa Process Updated for October 2025 – Step-by-Step Guide to Application and Requirements

If you’re planning to work in Thailand in October 2025, understanding the Thailand Work Visa process is essential. The Thailand Work Visa, commonly known as the Non-Immigrant B Visa, is issued to foreigners who want to work, do business, or invest in Thailand. This visa grants entry into the country, but you also need a Work Permit to legally work. It mainly serves professionals, teachers, engineers, investors, and entrepreneurs involved in Thai companies or multinational organizations based in Thailand.

There are several types of Non-Immigrant B Visas depending on your purpose: the standard Business and Employment visa for those working in Thai firms, the Business Approved visa for investors recognized by the Board of Investment (BOI), the Investment and Business visa for investors in BOI-approved projects, and the Non-Immigrant O visa for dependents of Work Visa holders. Although the purposes differ, the application and approval processes are similar.

To be eligible, you must have a legitimate job offer from a registered Thai company allowed to hire foreign workers, with qualifications relevant to the position. You should have a valid passport with at least six months’ validity, no criminal record, and be in good health without contagious diseases.

The application process begins with securing a job offer from a Thai employer, who must provide an official letter detailing your role, salary, and contract length, along with company documents such as business registration, tax ID, shareholder list, and an invitation letter for the embassy. Next, you apply for the Non-Immigrant B Visa at the nearest Thai embassy or consulate in your home country, submitting all required documents including personal papers, employer documents, and the visa form.

After submission, you’ll pay the visa fee, which varies by type: around 2,000 THB for a single-entry visa valid for 90 days, or about 5,000 THB for a multiple-entry visa valid for a year. An interview may be required. Once approved, you’ll receive the visa to enter Thailand.

Upon arrival, you must apply for a Work Permit at the Ministry of Labour, which legally authorizes you to work. The application includes your visa, passport, photos, and employer documents. Processing typically takes 7 to 10 working days. The Work Permit specifies your job title, employer, and work location.

To extend your stay beyond the initial 90 days, you must apply for visa renewal at the Immigration Bureau, which can extend your visa for up to one year. If you plan to travel outside Thailand during this period, a re-entry permit is necessary to maintain your visa status.

Required documents for the application include a valid passport, completed visa form, recent photos, job offer or contract, company registration papers, employer invitation letter, academic certificates, financial proof, police clearance, health certificate, travel itinerary, accommodation evidence, and visa fee receipt.

Visa processing times vary but usually take 5 to 10 working days at the embassy, plus additional time for the Work Permit. Both visa and Work Permit need renewal before expiration to maintain lawful employment. Work Visa holders must only work for the employer named on their permit; any job changes require a new permit. Additionally, foreigners must report their residential address to immigration every 90 days.

Foreign workers in Thailand are subject to personal income tax, ranging from 5 to 35 percent depending on income level, generally deducted by the employer. Tax residency applies if you stay more than 180 days per year.

Common reasons for visa rejection include incomplete documentation, insufficient proof of employment or financial stability, mismatch between job and qualifications, and prior immigration or criminal issues. To improve chances, confirm your employer is registered and authorized to hire foreigners, double-check all documents, maintain a clean immigration record, and never work without a valid Work Permit. Keep copies of all documents for your records.

Thailand offers a promising work environment with affordable living, good healthcare, and growing opportunities in technology, education, tourism, and digital sectors. Work Visa holders can bring family members under the Non-Immigrant O Visa, though dependents cannot work without their own permits.

Renewing the visa and Work Permit requires submitting updated documents and employment information before expiration to ensure continuous legal status in Thailand.