Is it possible to get a Non-B Visa for a business meeting / conference from China or Hong Kong? It's not listed on the embassy websites like it is on the Helsinki Thai Embassy, for example:
"1. Foreign nationals wishing to enter Thailand for MICE purposes as “employees or contractors of an organizer of conferences or seminars” so that such conferences or seminars can be held, are regarded as “working” under Working of Alien Act B.E. 2551 (2008). They must apply for a work permit with the Ministry of Labour, except for cases in which such foreign nationals enter Thailand to work on necessary and urgent matters for a period not exceeding 15 days. In the latter case, they shall submit a Notification for Engagement in Necessary and Urgent Work Under Section 9 of the Working of Alien Act (Form WP.10)."
TLDR : Answer Summary
The inquiry pertains to acquiring a Non-B Visa for attending business meetings or conferences in Thailand from China or Hong Kong. The message highlights that, according to Thai immigration rules, foreign nationals engaged in MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conventions, and Exhibitions) must normally acquire a work permit unless they qualify for an exemption due to urgent matters not exceeding 15 days. A comment notes recent changes in the regulations may allow meetings without a work permit.
