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Is there a short term work permit for foreign musicians to perform freelance gigs in Thailand?

Apr 3, 2025
a day ago
Graham ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thanks admin. So here goes my question.

I'm a long term foreign entertainer, musician, solo performer, ex-pat. Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam.

One thing in Thailand I still can't get info on.

Is there a special short term work permit available that I could apply for, without a long term resident visa, which would allow me to organise, and work several freelance gigs throughout Thailand?

I'm under the radar many years now but...

I do know that bigger acts who have passed through have this permit , its allowed.

Someone in immigration suggested to me, if your itinary is fixed and organized, it is possible.

I would only stay for a standard two month visa period.

As long as I declare the venue, pay the tax on each show, and do a show that Thais dont normally do.

Is there an entertainment short term work visa permit set up for professional foreign musicians who don't require the venue to obtain a work permit for me? As long as I follow the special permit restrictions?

So I can possibly freelance gigs throughout the country for that particular registered time?

It's a very Grey area I know, but it's why I joined, and why I ask.

Thanks.
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The inquiry focuses on the possibility of obtaining a special short term work permit for foreign entertainers and musicians to perform freelance gigs in Thailand without a long-term resident visa. The user suggests that some larger acts have managed to secure such permits and seeks clarity on whether they can also freelance if they declare their gigs and pay taxes. Community responses indicate a gray area in the regulations, confirming that while foreign musicians can sometimes get permits, freelance gigs without a structured contract might not be allowed. They note that established entertainment agencies often assist with this process, but it may not be straightforward.
Michael ********
Yes there are Entertainment agencies that the bigger groups, DJs etc etc use for this type of visa, unfortunately person i know used to do this passed away so dont have any contacts in that space. Suggest google and contact all
Chris *******
A foreigner in Phuket just recently was arrested for this.

Shortterm "acts" with a tour performance contract and schedule yes, can get a visa.

Freelance "I'm just gonna play here and there" NO.

What some have done is setup a mobile music business'.

Djs and Musicians then can apply for nonb visas as an owner/employee of the business, this is not cheap or easy.
Paul *******
Musician is not a protected occupation but you’re gonna need a permit. ‘Entertainment Agent’ maybe.

I am looking to put a tribute band together with Thai musicians I know but it ain’t gonna be easy.

♠️🤘🍺🇹🇭
Brandon ************
Freelance, no, definitely not.
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