ทนายความ วีซ่าธุรกิจ ที่ดีที่สุดใน Chiang Mai

1. About วีซ่าธุรกิจ Law in Chiang Mai, Thailand

In Chiang Mai, foreigners who plan to conduct business typically pursue a Non-Immigrant B visa as the starting point for entry. This visa category is intended for activities related to business, such as exploring investment opportunities, negotiating contracts, or managing a Thai company. Importantly, a Non-Immigrant B visa by itself does not authorize you to work in Thailand; a separate work permit is usually required for employment.

Local practice in Chiang Mai often involves coordinating with the Thai company, a Thai attorney, and the local immigration office. Documentation commonly includes corporate registrations, letters from the employer or business partners, and evidence of financial viability. After arrival, many applicants apply for stay extensions at the Chiang Mai Immigration Office to maintain lawful status while building their business.

For people already in Chiang Mai, the process can involve 90-day reporting, address changes, and occasional administrative requirements. Working with a licensed attorney or legal counsel can help ensure that your visa, work permits, and company registrations stay compliant with Thai law.

All foreigners who intend to engage in business in Thailand must obtain the appropriate visa and work permit where required; working without a permit is illegal.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

• Opening a company in Chiang Mai and securing executive visas - If you intend to set up a Thai company or a regional office, you may need to arrange a Non-Immigrant B visa for directors or managers and prepare corporate documents such as the memorandum of association and share registers. A lawyer can align your corporate structure with Thai Foreign Business Act requirements and visa rules.
• Hiring foreigners and obtaining work permits - If your business plans include employing non-Thai staff, you must obtain work permits for those individuals. A lawyer helps you navigate the Employment of Foreigners framework and ensures your hiring practices comply with Thai law to avoid penalties.
• Extending stay and managing 90-day reporting - Visa extensions, annual renewals, and 90-day notification compliance require timely documentation and up-to-date rules. An attorney keeps your case current with regulatory changes that may affect timelines and eligibility.
• Addressing foreign business restrictions and registrations - If your Chiang Mai venture touches on restricted sectors under the Foreign Business Act, you may need government permissions or waivers. A lawyer can assess sector eligibility and manage any licensing steps.
• Resolving overstay or immigration issues - If you encounter immigration enforcement, overstays, or potential penalties, legal counsel can help with representations, remedies, or remediation plans to minimize risk.
• Converting visa status for business operations - If your situation changes from a tourist or non-business visa, an attorney can guide you through the correct process to obtain a valid Non-Immigrant B visa and related permits.

3. Local Laws Overview

Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (as amended)

This act governs visas, length of stay, and the authority of immigration officers in Thailand, including Chiang Mai. It sets the framework for non-immigrant classifications, stay extensions, and reporting requirements. Practically, you will interact with this act when obtaining a visa, staying beyond entry, or dealing with 90-day reporting obligations.

Key point: Working in Thailand generally requires a separate work permit issued under the Employment of Foreigners framework. For official guidance, consult the Immigration Bureau at immigration.go.th.

Foreign Business Act B.E. 2542 (1999)

The Foreign Business Act restricts foreign participation and ownership in certain business activities and requires government permission for specific sectors. If you plan to operate a business in Chiang Mai that falls into a restricted category, you may need a license or an exemption before you can legally commence work or grant control to foreign nationals.

Practical note: Understanding which business activities are restricted helps you structure your Thai entity and ownership in a compliant manner. For official information, see the Ministry of Commerce resources and the general guidance available at dbd.go.th.

Employment of Foreigners Framework (Work Permits)

Thailand requires foreigners who work to obtain a work permit from the Ministry of Labour or its departments. Employers hold primary responsibility for ensuring the foreign staff have valid permits, and employers face penalties for employing workers without appropriate authorization. This framework intersects with visa status, because a non-immigrant visa does not guarantee legal permission to work.

For official information on work permits and related employment rules, consult the Ministry of Labour and its agencies at labour.go.th.

Recent regulatory focus in Thailand includes stricter enforcement of work permits for foreigners and enhanced procedures for corporate registrations and visa extensions to support legitimate business activity.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Non-Immigrant B visa used for in Chiang Mai?

A Non-Immigrant B visa is for business related activities, such as meetings or negotiating contracts. It does not authorize employment without a work permit.

How do I apply for a Non-Immigrant B visa from Chiang Mai?

You typically apply through a Thai embassy or consulate abroad or at a Thai immigration office after arrival. Requirements include passport data pages, photos, and business documentation.

Do I need a Thai company to sponsor a business visa?

Not always, but many applicants obtain a visa via a Thai company or partner. Sponsorship often involves corporate documents and proof of business activity in Thailand.

How long does the application process take?

Processing times vary by source and location. Embassy applications may take several business days, while local extensions or changes of status can take weeks. Always verify current timelines with the issuing authority.

Do I need a work permit to work in Chiang Mai?

Yes. A work permit is generally required to engage in any employment in Thailand, separate from visa status. Employers are responsible for securing permits for their foreign staff.

Can a business visa be converted to a work permit while in Thailand?

A visa and a work permit are separate documents. You must apply for a work permit in addition to maintaining a valid visa status.

Should I hire a lawyer for visa extension?

A lawyer can help prepare the required evidence and ensure you comply with latest rules. This reduces the risk of denial or delays during extension.

How much does a Chiang Mai business visa lawyer typically charge?

Prices vary by complexity and service level. Expect a range roughly from THB 15,000 to THB 60,000 for comprehensive case handling, excluding government fees.

What are the required documents for extension of stay?

Typical documents include your passport, current visa, photos, a letter from your business, bank statements, and evidence of ongoing business activity. Requirements change, so verify with the local immigration office.

What's the difference between a business visa and a Smart Visa?

The Non-Immigrant B visa is for general business activity and may require a work permit. The Smart Visa targets specific high-technology or investment roles and offers longer stay with fewer administrative steps for qualified individuals.

How long does 90-day reporting take and how often must I do it?

90-day reporting is typically done every 90 days while you hold a long stay visa. The process can be completed in person or online, depending on local procedures.

Do I need to show a Thai bank letter for my visa extension?

Bank statements or financial evidence may be requested to demonstrate ongoing business viability or personal financial means, depending on your visa category and the immigration officer's assessment.

5. Additional Resources

• - Authorities responsible for visas, stays, and related regulations. Official site provides category descriptions, requirements, and procedures. immigration.go.th
• - Administers company registrations, business name reservations, and compliance for Thai entities. dbd.go.th
• - Oversees work permits for foreigners and employment regulations. labour.go.th