Work Permit Thailand is required for any foreigner who intends to work in Thailand. Whether you are an employee, company director, or business owner, a valid Work Permit Thailand is essential to legally perform work-related activities under Thai law. Understanding the Work Permit Thailand process helps ensure full compliance and prevents legal issues.
Who Needs a Work Permit in Thailand?
Work Permit for Foreigners in Thailand | Hire Foreigners Thailand
🟢 Employee
Any foreign employee working for a Thai company or a foreign company registered in Thailand must obtain a Work Permit Thailand before starting work.
🟢 Active Company Director
Foreign directors who sign documents, participate in decision-making, or manage operations require a valid Thailand Work Permit.
⚪ Passive Company Director
Directors with no operational duties may not need a work permit. Eligibility depends on the actual activity performed, not the title alone.
⚪ Shareholder Only
Shareholders who do not work for the company do not require a work permit.
🟢 Business Owner / Startup Founder
Foreign owners involved in day-to-day management or operations must have a Thailand Work Permit.
🟠 Short-Term or Technical Activities
Technical assignments, internal meetings, equipment installation, or training sessions may still require a work permit depending on the nature of the task.
This is one of the most misunderstood work permit rules in Thailand and should be reviewed carefully.
Work Permit Eligibility Checklist
Work Permit Requirements Thailand | Non-B Visa Thailand Preparation
Before you apply for your Thailand Work Permit, both the employer and the foreign applicant must meet all legal requirements. Fig Tree begins every engagement with a thorough eligibility assessment to ensure compliance and prevent delays.
Company Eligibility Requirements (Employer Side)
Thailand company hiring foreigners | employer requirements Thailand
🟢 Legally Registered and Active Company
The company must be fully registered and operating in Thailand.
🟢 Sufficient Paid-Up Capital for Hiring Foreigners
Most cases require adequate paid-up capital to support a foreign employee’s work permit.
🟢 Required Number of Thai Employees
Typically four Thai employees under SSO per foreigner unless BOI privileges apply. This is a key rule for hiring foreigners in Thailand.
🟢 Valid Registered Office Address
The office must be verifiable and suitable for inspection if needed.
🟢 Updated Tax and Social Security Filings
Accurate and up-to-date filings are essential for the Work Permit Thailand process.
🟢 Business Activities Allow Foreign Hiring
Business categories must comply with Thai regulations regarding foreign workers.
Foreign Applicant Eligibility Requirements (Employee Side)
Non-B Visa Thailand | foreigner requirements Thailand
🟢 Valid Non-Immigrant Visa (Non-B or relevant type)
A correct visa type is required before applying for a Thailand Work Permit.
🟢 Passport with Adequate Validity
The passport should have sufficient remaining validity for the duration of employment.
🟢 Non-Prohibited Occupation
The job position must not fall under occupations prohibited to foreigners in Thailand.
🟢 Relevant Qualifications or Experience
Educational background or practical experience must align with the job role.
🟢 Clean Immigration Record
No history of overstay or immigration violations.
🟢 Supporting Documents Prepared
Certificates, an employment contract, resume, photos, and other documents are required for the work permit application process in Thailand.
Why Choose Fig Tree for Your Thailand Work Permit Service
Thailand Work Permit Service | Visa and Work Permit Thailand
🟢 Compliance-First Review
We carefully check both employer and employee eligibility to ensure your case meets all Thailand work permit requirements.
🟢 Close Coordination With Directors and Thai Staff
Many steps are done through online government systems and require director authentication. Fig Tree supports every step.
🟢 Full Process Support: Visa + Work Permit + Extension
From Non-B Visa Thailand preparation, to Work Permit application, to 1-year extension and re-entry permit — everything is handled with clear guidance.
🟢 Smooth, Transparent, Stress-Free
Our goal is to make your Work Permit process easy, compliant, and well-organized — the Fig Tree way.