Should I enter Thailand on a tourist visa and switch to a Non-B visa after getting a job offer?

Jan 9, 2021
4 years ago
Javid *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Dear all,

I have got a job offer in Thailand (successful interviews online). I must be in Thailand for signing up the role. Should I first go to Thailand as tourists, get the job and then change my visa?

Thanks in advance
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The post discusses whether it's advisable for someone with a job offer in Thailand to enter the country on a tourist visa and later switch to a Non-B visa for employment. Comments highlight that although it's theoretically possible to change from a tourist visa to a Non-B visa in Thailand, it can be complex and involve strict requirements. Many commenters recommend entering Thailand with a Non-B visa to avoid complications with work permits and visa regulations.
James ********
And as the OP has not replied...we wish him success.

Commenting closed.
Kimberly ******************
Get your visa first
Lea ******
Why don't they organise everything before you come? That would be easier
Sara *********
I was told by my employer and people on this group that you can't change from a tourist visa to a non-b without leaving the country. So best to get relevant documents and enter with the non -b
Steve *********
get your employer to sort out all your paperwork as it will take. time
Benjamin ******
@Steve ********
but a person can not work without a valid visa or work permit
Benjamin ******
@Sara ********
I have heard people going from tourist visa to a non-b inside Thailand, but the requirements are high. I also know it is difficult to go from an extension of stay based on unable to travel due to COVID-19 to an extension of stay based on employment.
Nareenart *********
Ur company should apply WP3 for you and sent all the required documents(each country might be a bit difference list) over to you then you can use it to apply non b at the embassy before come to Thailand. However it also depend on your company but that’s the normal process.
Tamas *******
It’s the same non-immigrant B (B means business) visa for any type of employment
James ********
What kind of Non B visa will be needed?

For teaching ?

Or business ?
Tamas *******
What was the agreement with the hiring company? If they apply for the WP3 letter at ministry of labour, it takes around 3 months and then with that letter you can apply for a non-immigrant B visa at an embassy. If you come as tourist, you can come right away but might not have enough time to receive the WP3 letter in time.
Tamas *******
Visa and WP are both a must to be able to be in the country and work
Benjamin ******
@Tamas ******
a person can't work without a work permit in Thailand
Tamas *******
@Benjamin *****
of course not, but you can get the non-immigrant B visa based on WP3 to enter the country
Benjamin ******
@Tamas ******
you don't need a non-b to legally work in Thailand. A person can also get a work permit on a non-o visa/ extension of stay based on marriage, raising half Thai children, or volunteering

(I'm sure you know that, but others might not)
Tamas *******
@Benjamin *****
you are right. I was making assumption based on the original post. 👍
Benjamin ******
My question: what's your risk tolerance?

In theory, you *can* enter on a tourist visa, and get a one year extension of stay based on employment inside Thailand. However, I don't think it's the best strategy.

You can get a 90 day single entry Non-B visa outside of Thailand, which will let you get a one year extension of stay based on employment. This visa requires a lot of document from the employer, including the contract. It'll also speed up the process of getting a work permit as well. It will also show you the employer knows their visa laws and want to do everything by regulations.
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