Should we convert our tourist visa to a working visa in Thailand or apply from the Netherlands?

Question

Hi there, my husband and i are currently on a tourist visa TR for 60+30 days (expires may 22).
Now my husband received a job offer so we need to convert the tourist visa into a working visa+ dependant for me and our son. We are wondering if it is best to do this in thailand or in our home country the Netherlands, as we plan to go there sometime the next 3 month anyway. Has someone been through the same decision process, what are the pro’s&cons? (We do not care so much about the quarantine as we will need to do it anyway when we go back)

I have the following questions:
1. How long does the conversion process take in thailand vs. Applying for new working+ dependant visas outside of thailand
2. Is the process of conversion easier than a new working visa with regards to documents needed.
3. What is the benefit of a Smart visa compared to regular visa as my husband might be eligible for one.

Thanks for the support!

Ask Thailand · Answer

A couple on a tourist visa in Thailand seeks advice on whether to convert to a working visa while in Thailand or to apply from their home country, the Netherlands. They face questions about processing times, document requirements for conversion vs. applying for new visas, and the benefits of the Smart visa. Community responses highlight that while conversion is possible, it can be more challenging within Thailand, suggesting that applying from abroad may be easier. They also note the importance of consulting with the employer regarding visa options.

Ellie ******* · Answer

If you can apply for a new in-country visa would depend on the employer, local immigration office(, and you), especially for non-O trailing family to the Non-B holder.

Usually, fewer documents (to employer) are required when you apply at the embassy than at the immigration office.

Talk with the employer and check BOI web page for a Smart visa application process, benefits, etc. Your employer also needs to meet the requirements for your husband to be able to apply for Smart visa.

Benjamin ****** · Answer

>How long does the conversion process take in thailand vs. Applying for new working+ dependant visas outside of thailand

Both are the same. HOWEVER... it is difficult to convert a tourist visa inside Thailand, and much easier to do outside.

>Is the process of conversion easier than a new working visa with regards to documents needed.

Your employer can answer that question; if not, then the embassy would know.

>What is the benefit of a Smart visa compared to regular visa as my husband might be eligible for one

I would ignore getting a Smart visa vs. a Non-B; your employer would know best.

Should we convert our tourist visa to a working visa in Thailand or apply from the Netherlands?

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