Thai Work Permits

All foreigners, with a few exceptions, who wish to undertake any kind of work in Thailand, must hold a valid work permit and visa. These are issued by the department of Employment.
Working without a work permit is a criminal offence and employers who violate the law can face fines of up to 60,000 Baht and/or jail terms of up to 3 years. Foreign employees who do not hold a work permit may be jailed for up to 3 months and can face fines of up to 5,000 Baht.
There are a few types of work that are reserved only for Thai nationals. In the main these are related to manual labour and productions of handicrafts, but they also include jobs such as hairdressing. A full list can be obtained from the department of employment.

How do you apply for a work permit?
If you will be working for a company then your employer should apply for a work permit on your behalf. Companies are limited to the number of foreign employees they have and must have a registered capital of at least 2 million Baht per foreigner they wish to employ.
If you wish to apply for your own work permit you must first set up a Thai company and obtain a non-immigrant B visa. You can apply for your visa at a Thai embassy or consulate in your home country before entering Thailand. Chiang Mai Lifestyle will be happy to recommend a legal professional who can assist you with this process.
Your work permit will entitle you to perform the duties within the business and work premises stated on your application form. Should you move company or location you will have to apply for a new work permit.

What use is a work permit to me?
Once you have a work permit you are legally entitled to work and run a business in Thailand. You can open a company bank account, obtain credit cards and bank loans, contract a mobile phone, purchase a car or motorcycle and import your personal belongings to Thailand without import duties.
You will, of course, be eligible for income tax and social security payments.