This is NOT an official government website. We are an independent resource providing information and assistance to travelers.

What is the process to obtain a work permit for Thailand as an expat?

May 16, 2025
21 days ago
Hrishikesh *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hello !! I am hrishikesh from india

I would like to work in thailand ! I dont know whats the process!! I visited thailand many time but not stays more than 6 weeks so i am planning to stay and work in Thailand ( phuket ) ! Is here anyone to explain what work permit cost and how to apply !!
1,667
views
2
likes
42
all likes
26
replies
1
images
15
users
TLDR : Answer Summary
The user is seeking guidance on how to work legally in Thailand, specifically in Phuket. Comments suggest that the user cannot apply for a work permit directly; instead, their employer must initiate the application process. It is emphasized that finding a job is crucial first, as certain positions are reserved for Thai citizens. Various commenters mention that the job market may be challenging, with suggestions for teaching English or working in Indian restaurants as potential options.
Janine *******
No chance
Dan *******
You can not work in Thailand
Tommy ********
Get lost you fuckin jeet get OUT
Bill **********
Teaching English is probably your only option .
Nimish ***********
You can get a DTV visa. Mala message kar me sangto
Frank **********
Find an Indian restaurant. There is like 8 million of them in Pattaya and Bangkok. Ask them for a job.
Braulio *********
It is not going to happen
Simon *********
Depends if you special skills
Ernesto ********
@Simon ********
he’s a toilet manager. Its specialized
David ******
Forget it Pajeet.
Bent *************
Forget it!
Steven *******
On every Thai Embassy website, there’s a list of jobs reserved for Thais. Start there. If all of the jobs you’re qualified to do are on that list, it may be difficult for you to work in Thailand.
Brandon ************
You can't apply for a work permit. Your employer does that.

The first thing you need to find is a job. Your employer can then give you paperwork to apply for a work visa and they will apply for work permit.
Hrishikesh *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Brandon ***********
that means less chances to get job in Thailand in this field??
Von ***********
@Hrishikesh ******
housekeepers and managers assistance are a dime a dozen, you won’t be getting a work permit visa in that field of operation, back to the drawing board.
Nongnuch ********
Brandon ************
Abey *********
@Brandon ***********
When an employer applies for work permit for a foreign national, can the Thai immigration say there are thousands of Thai nationals who can full fill that job and refuse the application?
Brandon ************
@Abey ********
immigration has nothing to do with the work permit. That's the labor department. And they have a lot of rules and regulations.
John **********
@Abey ********
yes of course. A number of jobs are reserved for Thai people
Hrishikesh *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Brandon ***********
but after i can find job whats the cost for work permit??
Kool *******
@Hrishikesh ******
the work permit itself, once you have a job, and the paperwork from the company, is bt3800. But understand that if you aren't fluent in speaking and understanding Thai, Laotian, and Burmese, you aren't qualified.
Hrishikesh *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Ok thank you so much !!
Brandon ************
@Hrishikesh ******
Shouldn't cost you anything. It's part of the job.
Hrishikesh *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Brandon ***********
but sir thai peoples first priority is like Myanmar’s people because they dont have to pay tax !! Is that true ?? Its hard to get job in thailand !!

I have 5 years experience in housekeeping manager and assistant
Nairit *******
@Hrishikesh ******
some jobs are reserved for Thai people and cannot be applied for a work permit in that category of work
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
... members · 60% approval rate
The Thai Visa Advice And Everything Else group allows for a broad range of discussions on life in Thailand, beyond just visa inquiries.
Join the Group
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
View the Conversation
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else