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What are the legal ways for Americans to work as freelancers in Thailand?

American expats Freelancing in Thailand Visa regulations Work permits in Thailand Thailand Elite Visa Digital Nomad Visa Treaty of Amity

Dec 21, 2020

4 years ago

ORIGINAL POSTER

Is there anyone working as an American in Thailand? I could really use some advice as I try to move myself as a freelancer out to Thailand. Lived there before but dealing with immigration and paperwork is always such a hassle. If I go back out will be permanent. Yes I know about elite Visa. But it's big number of commitment and details of how to get it seem sketchy as there are many agencies offering it. Thank you 🙏

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The post discusses the challenges faced by an American looking to freelance in Thailand, emphasizing the need for a work permit. It mentions the Elite Visa, clarifying that it's a tourist visa that doesn't allow work, and highlights options like the Treaty of Amity for starting a business. Comments provide additional insights on the potential for a digital nomad visa and suggest caution with visa agents. Recommendations include verifying demand for freelance skills and considering employment options.

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Peter *******************

this is real, not a scam, talk to them...

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Jane ***********

Companies like Shelter Global and Iglu enable you to work legally for a contribution of your income, if you're eligible

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Benjamin ******

@Jane **********

iGlu shut down in Thailand.

Shelter Global? I never heard of them. Is this them?

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Jane ***********

@Benjamin *****

Are you sure Iglu shut down?

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Benjamin ******

@Jane **********

I'm surprised. I thought they were shut down. Glad to hear they are running again.

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Jane ***********

@Benjamin *****

Yeah, I think it was a blip. I know at least one person still with them.

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Jane ***********

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Jane ***********

@Benjamin *****

No but this is:

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Jane ***********

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Michael ********

This is something they are contemplating

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/18/digital-nomad-visas-skilled-foreigners-live-work-up-to-4-years/

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Benjamin ******

@Michael *******

I don't see how it's for freelancers though..

"To get approval for the new visa scheme, applicants must show a 6-month contract with a foreign firm accompanied by supporting documentation showing the appropriate educational qualifications and experience in business concerns outside Thailand."

I don't think any business will sign a contract with someone who doesn't have a business license already, or a work permit.

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Michael ********

@Benjamin *****

yes another stupid idea from goverment TIT

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Jones *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Benjamin *****

it's always hoops to keep out entrepreneurs they can't milk for money nothing new

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Jones *******

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Benjamin ******

> I could really use some advice as I try to move myself as a freelancer out to Thailand.

Can't do that legally. You'll need a work permit. NOW, you may be able to use the treaty of Amity to start a business in the USA, and bring that business license over to Thailand easily (see:

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>Yes I know about elite Visa.

The elite visa is a tourist visa, and does not let you work. The agents selling the visa are real, but you can buy it directly from them at

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My advice:

1. See if there's demand for your skill in Thailand as a freelancer, AND it pays enough for you to live. Basic information technology, like computer repair or basic networking, won't pay enough to live on.

2. If you use a visa agent to get any visa besides an elite visa, be careful.

3. Maybe look for an employer to hire you

Good luck

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Nick *******

I wouldn't bother, Virus spreading. Will be on lockdown end of week.

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Jones *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

if I'm going to live there full time that's why

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Nick *******

wait. Patience is a virtual 😉

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Nick *******

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Jones *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

same everywhere so what's the difference

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Nick *******

the difference is my pal, is why would anybody would want to spend 100,000b to come to Thailand an be stuck in a hotel for 2wks.

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Nick *******

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