Good evening everyone, I am applying to volunteer through Helpx and Workaway hosts.
The host who has accepted me says I don't need a work permit as the work is not paid, but every group or forum I have looked at says the opposite is true. I will be volunteering legally but want to know that the Immigration Bureau also agrees that I don't need a work permit.
These rules of the Immigration service (and banks) are rather confusing.
I want to get a 'non O visa' but I need a Thai bank account, but of course I can't get a Thai bank account without the visa that the bank requires...
TLDR : Answer Summary
The question focuses on whether a work permit is necessary for volunteering in Thailand via Helpx and Workaway. The poster is confused by contrasting information from hosts and various forums, leading them to seek clarification from the Thai Immigration Bureau. Comments reveal a consensus that, according to Thai law, volunteering is considered work and requires a work permit, irrespective of payment. Several commenters advise against participating in such volunteer programs without proper documentation, citing potential legal consequences.
NON-O RETIREMENT VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
- Go to the Retirement Visa Section for information on requirements, including age restrictions, financial requirements, and necessary documentation.
- For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
- Explore recent discussions by using the Non-O Retirement Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
- Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.