Is It Legal to Teach in Thailand Without a Work Permit While It’s Being Processed?

Feb 16, 2020
5 years ago
Steven ************
ORIGINAL POSTER
After taking the advice of people on this forum, my friend starting searching for teaching jobs to tide her over until she turns 50 later this year.

Now, a private Thai language school in Bangkok wants to hire her immediately (she has a degree in child development, and has taught in schools previously).

She will insist that the school immediately provide a letter and supporting paperwork so she can get a B Visa before her current ED Visa runs out in March (which we've heard only takes a few days, assuming everything is in order).

Here's the question. They said her work permit will take two months to process. Yet, they expect her to start teaching immediately... before she has a work permit in hand.

In fact, her employment contract mentions a 3-month probation period BEFORE they apply for the work permit (to protect the school in case of "contract breach." )

My research indicates that most schools do this. I've read conflicting accounts on immigration's stance on this common practice: some say it's ok to teach while the work permit is being processed, others say you can be deported (assuming immigration visits the school).

What's the best way to proceed here? Any advice would be appreciated.
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TLDR : Answer Summary
A user shares concerns about a friend who has a teaching job offer in Thailand but will need to work before her work permit is processed. The questions revolve around the legality of teaching without a work permit and the risks involved if immigration authorities investigate the situation.
Robert *******
And I think it is better to close it down. The rules are clear, that most of the schools act like this, that most of the teachers don't care, does not change the fact and rules. As last comment mention, if immigration knock on the door, it is rare but it happen, again the choice is yours.
Dai **********
When I was working in Thailand, this was the case in all the teaching jobs I had there. Some of which were in very reputable establishments. Unless she does something really silly during her 3 month probation period, she will get her WP. The problem is, what if immigration knock on the door? It is rare for this to happen, but has been happening more recently.
Wannikea *********
2 months for a work permit is unrealistic, a week.
Robert *******
He tell in contract 3 months before they apply, so not that unreal as the school does not applies for it.
Robert *******
Legally you need the Work Permit and a visa that allows you to work with a work permit. Best way do not work without the documents as it is illegal. But the choice is yours, the school know nothing when it goes wrong and will hire another teacher who is willing to work illegal.
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