Do I need to leave Thailand to change my Non O extension to a Non B for a new job?

@Rachel *******

, You who are on a visa/extension based on raising a Thai child are definitely allowed to hold a work permit.

BUT, the possibility that your new employer has difficulty applying for your work permit with your visa/extension may not be exactly zero. (not going into further details as about work permit is out of the scope of this group).

You should talk with a new employer about details well in advance.

Your terminology is fine,

AND

you are totally able to just get a new work permit and work for the new company on the yearly extension you have (raising thai child)

There is nothing that makes you have to get off that extension, get a new visa based on employment (Non-B) and then the extension based on employment

The only reason an employer would say to do that is so that if you lose the job you lose the visa (it gives them a measure of control over you)

I would say NO don't switch there is no reason to switch and you can hold a work permit (seeing as you already do) without any issue on a Non-O visa/extension based on supporting a thai child