Can I convert my 30-day Thai pass to a work permit for business?

Jan 23, 2022
3 years ago
Suzie ************
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hi I am here on a 30 day Thai pass. I’m thinking of staying much longer as I have been offered a job here (growing a business with a very good friend). Is it possible to go fr a 30 day pass to a work permit. If so what do I need to bring g to immigration?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The user is currently on a 30-day entry and is inquiring about the possibility of converting this into a work permit due to a job offer for business growth. Responses emphasize the need for a Non-B visa to legally work in Thailand and obtaining a work permit, highlighting that the work permit application must be initiated by the employer and cannot be processed simply at immigration.
Lai *************
What kind of business are you operating?
Suzie ************
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hi someone sent me a PM about this subject in that they cud help but I inadvertently lost it. Wud you be kind enough to reach out to me again.
Pui *****
You didn't come on a 30 day Thailand Pass. Thailand Passes are not visas and don't allow any particular length of stay. They are just a government approval of your entry documents to ensure you have the proper hotel booking, covid test bookings, insurance, etc. You still need whatever visa you needed to enter, or you likely entered on a 30 day visa exempt entry. The stamp in your passport is what shows your allowed stay-till date, not any length of time you originally put when you applied for Thailand Pass as your estimated stay length. If you go around asking about converting a Thailand Pass to a work permit, no one will understand what you are talking about. You need a Non-B visa and a work permit, not just a work permit. Work permits are issued by the Ministry of Labor, NOT by immigration so going there won't do a thing for you. And work permits are applied for by the employer, not by yourself. Both the Non-B visa application and work permit application process takes many steps with many documents and photos required. Here's the list for the Non-B:
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Suzie ************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Pui ****
, sorry I am not completely familiar with the terminology but yes I got a 30 visa exempt. I am here now. I hv to leave by Feb 3 but I have a real job offer with my friend, not under the table.
Steve ********
I would get the covid extension tmrow and then talk to an agent and try to figure something out. Or just buy an Elite Visa and be done with it.
Bob **********
@Steve *******
how's she going to work??without a work permit and non-b visa
Suzie ************
ORIGINAL POSTER
Crap ok, I was hoping for another 4 months. I will be added as a co-owner of the business does that make a difference.
Pui *****
@Steve *******
The elite visa won't allow her to work or run a business. You can't get a work permit on an Elite visa.
Steve ********
@Pui ****
then yes, it will be more complicated. I would still get covid extension tomorrow though. Extra 60 days
Steve ********
@Pui ****
like no one works under the table.
Suzie ************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Steve *******
, but this is a legitimate business. I will be getting a letter offering me the job.
Andy ***********
@Suzie ******************
- then u will need a non imm B visa to allow your employer to apply for your work permit… if u work in thailand without a work permit beware … i
Benjamin ******
@Steve *******
working under the table can result in deportation and blacklist.
Steve ********
@Pui ****
yet. I am hearing more.
Darren *******
@Steve *******
the OP is hardly a digital nomad if they're running a business in Thailand.
Steve ********
@Pui ****
she could apply for the digital nomad visa I keep hearing about.
Pui *****
@Steve *******
That seems to exist in theory only and never implemented yet. There's no application process to get it.
Garrett ***********
Growing a business with a friend? You'd need a Non-B visa and you'd have to apply for a work permit. Your position cannot be a prohibited profession and the company needs to employ 4 thais for every 1 foreigner.
Suzie ************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Garrett **********
, yes that’s exactly what I will be doing? Growing the business as I am a Canadian w/a another hime in Florida. He is Indian and there is a Thai partner as well. I’ll be opening the Canada/USA market.
Suzie ************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Garrett **********
, can I do that on a 30 day exempt visa … I’m already here. Yes he employed other Thai people currently … I will be helping him grow his business
Suzie ************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Garrett **********
. Thank you. I will pursue this venue.
Glenn ********
@Suzie ******************
To get the b business visa you have to leave the country and enter on a business visa, then change to a work permit
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