Many people from around the world choose to make Thailand their vacation destination. For many, it is an easy choice because the weather is tropical, the people are pleasant, and the nightlife is second-to-none. However, for those who wish to stay in the Kingdom for a long period of time, a visa may be necessary. Many become downtrodden and confused by the information imparted on the Thai visa.
For example, some visas to Thailand are stamped with a notation which states: "Employment Prohibited." Dismay is had because the visa holder believes this means that they cannot receive employment authorization at any time. In reality, this simply means that employment is not authorized based solely upon this travel document. The Thai authorities have split the right to work from the right to reside in Thailand. Much like a US business visa (B1), the bearer is only allowed to travel and enter the country for business related reasons which do not constitute employment in the USA. This same issue is often experienced by those in Thailand on a Thai business visa. Many labor under the incorrect belief that a Thai business visa entitles the bearer to work authorization in the Kingdom of Thailand. In point of fact, only a Thai work permit entitles a foreigner to work in the Kingdom. Even with a work permit, one's employment must be within the scope of activities listed in the permit. That being said, a Thai business visa with an "Employment Prohibited" notation could still be utilized as a basis for a work permit application provided all of the other legal requirements are met.
Another common notation that throws some would-be expats off guard is the one which states: "Extension of Stay Not Permitted." This is a truly disconcerting notation because many believe that it is impossible to extend their visa past the initial validity. This is not the case. Instead, this should actually read: "Extension of Stay is not allowed without re-authorization." One may extend a Thai business visa, but it is not a matter of right. Instead, an entirely new extension application must be submitted and approved before one will be permitted to remain in lawful status past the visa's expiration. This seems to be intended as a notation to be used internally by Thai government officers employed at either the Royal Thai immigration Police, the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or the Thai Ministry of Labour. Many foreigners are relieved to know that these notations rarely have a detrimental impact upon their long term plans.
(Thai Immigration rules and regulations are in a constant state of flux. Therefore, extensive research may be necessary in order to obtain a valid visa. Where feasible, contact a licensed legal professional for further details.)
Author Resource:
Benjamin Hart is an attorney in the USA and the Managing Director of Integrity Legal (Thailand) Co. Ltd. For more information, please contact 1-877-231-7533, +66 (0)2-266-3698, or info@integrity-legal.com. See more on the internet at Thai visa or Thai business visa .
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