As the tourist boom in Thailand brings visitors from all parts of the world, the population in Thailand is also increasing steadily. Many of these foreign nationals choose to stay in Thailand. Some of these business people may be there for one trip, but most require repeat trips. The visas are customized according to the work carried out and the number of types the business person can go in and out of Thailand.
There are two types of Thai Business Visas in Thailand, the first being the Non-Immigrant Visa “B” which normally includes business and work and also a three-year Non-Immigrant Visa “B” which is for Business purposes only.
The Three year non-immigrant Visa is issued to people who wish to conduct business inside the country and maybe valid for 3 years with multiple entries permitted. The visa allows a business person to enter Thailand at any time during the three years provided that s/he does not extend the stay beyond 90 days during each visit. Note that you do not need to have a business visa in order to buy a condo in Thailand. That is a very common misconception.
Before applying for the visa, try to get all the documents ready. The more documents you have to show your business as a legitimate, thriving operation, the more successful you will be in obtaining the business visa. Also, try to find out all you can about the companies or Trade associations that invited you to the country. It is best to gather all of their information including balance sheets, tax Id and information, their profit and loss information, reputation and standing in the industry, any international connections for those businesses to your country, their contact numbers, etc.
Most Thai embassies accept applications for business visas. To obtain one, please have the following documents ready:
- An application that may be downloaded from the Thai Embassy site
- A valid passport that has at least a year to expire
- Two recently taken passport size photos
- ID card such as Driver’s license
- A letter from the employer or business partner or details on your business plan in Thailand.
- A letter of invitation from Thailand
- Any correspondence with business partners in Thailand and any information available to you
- Copy of their business license, list of shareholders, statement of Income, tax papers, etc.
Some people find working in Thailand exciting as they deal with new people every day and are able to live an enjoyable and rewarding life with the Thai culture. However, one of the negative aspects of working there or doing business there is the legal hassles that the employee or business person has to go through multiple times a year.
If you are planning to start a business in Thailand, wish you Good Luck in your venture!
