Does a foreigner who is a partner in a Thai company need a visa if he doesn't work there?

Thai Visa Rules Visa Exemption Tourist Visa Work Permit Foreigners in Thailand Business Visa Thai Company Partnership

September 5, 2017

7 years ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hello Guys, I need an info. If a foreigner is partner of a thai company but he doesn't work in the company business, does he need a visa?

He spends no more than 6 months per year in Thailand, without working. Can he legally stay with visa exemption stamp or tourist visa? Or being the official partner of a company obliges him to get a work permit and/or a business visa?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

A foreigner who is a partner in a Thai company but does not work in the business may not need a work permit. He can legally stay in Thailand for up to six months using a visa exemption stamp or a tourist visa. Being a shareholder or director typically does not obligate him to obtain a business visa or work permit if he does not engage in work.

Adrien ******

Yes both ways are ok 👍

7 years ago

Marco *********

ORIGINAL POSTER

Thanks Adrian. For normal visa you mean tourist visa or, if he just jumps to Thailand for 2-3 weeks, visa exemption entry stamp?

7 years ago

Adrien ******

As a Director or Shareholder of a Thai Limited Company as long as he doesn't work in the Company he does not need a Work Permit. He could in theory just opt for a "Normal" Visa. Many investors do this already.

7 years ago

James *************

As there is no 'normal' visa perhaps should clarify...if you are staying 3 months or less a setv is enough. If 6 months or less a METV would be better and a multi entry non b would be best. The non b can be renewed/issued new each year and then you can get re entry permit to come and go as you please. There likely other ways to squeeze out an extra month here and there with visa exemptions and extensions. Wp not necessary if not working.

7 years ago

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James *************

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