Working legally in Thailand takes two documents that are issued by two different authorities, and they depend on each other. The visa comes from immigration. The work permit comes from the labour department. Each wants to see evidence involving the other, which is why people who tackle them separately go round in circles.
We run both tracks together, with the company documents prepared once and used for both.
What the company needs to support you
A work permit is granted for a specific job at a specific employer. The employer has to satisfy conditions on registered capital, on tax filings and on the ratio of Thai employees to foreign employees.
If you are joining an established company this is usually straightforward and we work with their accountant. If you are setting up your own company, the structure has to be built with the work permit in mind from day one, otherwise you register a company that cannot legally employ you.
- Company registration documents and shareholder list.
- Financial statements and recent tax filings.
- Social security registration for the Thai staff.
- A job description that matches a role a foreigner is permitted to hold.
Married to a Thai national?
The requirements on the employing company are relaxed for foreigners married to Thai nationals. If that is your situation, say so at the first consultation. It can change the entire structure of what we recommend.
How it works
- 1
Structure review
We look at the company, or design one, so that it can actually support your work permit. This is the step that saves the most money later.
- 2
Visa first
The Non-Immigrant B entry, obtained abroad or converted in country if your current stamp allows it.
- 3
Work permit filing
We prepare the labour department file, including the company documents, and follow it through to issue.
- 4
Extension and upkeep
One year extension of stay, 90 day reports, and the annual work permit renewal, all diarised by us.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a work permit without a company?
A work permit is always tied to an employer. If you have no employer in Thailand, the options are to set up a company that can employ you, to work for a foreign employer under a DTV, or to look at a category such as the LTR. We will tell you which fits.
How many Thai employees do I need?
There is a ratio requirement of Thai employees per foreign work permit, with variations for certain categories and for foreigners married to Thai nationals. We size this for your specific plan at the structure review stage.
Can I convert my tourist entry to a business visa here?
Sometimes, if you have enough days left on your stamp and the company file is ready. The timing is tight, so send us a photo of your stamp early rather than late.
Planning to work or start a business in Pattaya?
Tell us what you want to do and whether a company already exists. We will map the visa, the work permit and the company steps in one conversation.
Related services
- Legal servicesCompany registration in PattayaA Thai limited company set up properly the first time, structured from day one around the work permit you will need.
- Visa servicesNon-Immigrant O visa in PattayaThe entry category that unlocks the retirement and marriage extensions, obtained abroad or converted from your current stamp inside Thailand.
- Legal servicesLegal consulting for foreignersA straight answer about where you stand, before it becomes a dispute you are paying to fight.
- Visa services90 day reporting in PattayaYour address notification filed for you at Jomtien Immigration, usually the same day, without you setting foot in the building.