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Browse our 1 legal question about Work Permit in Thailand and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.
In Chiang Mai, Thailand, a work permit is a legal document that grants a foreigner the authorization to work in the country for a specified duration. The work permit is issued by the Ministry of Labor and specifies details such as job position, job locality, and the company that the foreigner is hired to work for. It's important to note that in Thailand, “work” is comprehensively defined to include any activity that requires effort and thought and is done in expectation of earning a living, regardless of whether it's for wage or other type of compensation.
Seeking legal assistance when applying for a work permit in Chiang Mai, Thailand, can be of great benefit due to the legal complexities that you may encounter. Some common situations where you may require this help include:
In Chiang Mai, as well as the whole of Thailand, local laws stipulate that any foreigner who wishes to work requires a valid work permit. The Alien Employment Act B.E. 2551 (2008) governs the issuance of work permits. The permit must be applied for after obtaining appropriate non-immigrant visa and it must specify the exact type of job, company, and location. Working without a permit or working in a job not named on one's permit are considered illegal and subject to penalties. Work permits in Thailand are usually tied to specific jobs at specific companies, so if you lose your job you will likely lose your permit as well.
Generally, it takes about 7 working days to obtain a work permit in Chiang Mai, Thailand once you have submitted all the necessary documentation.
Applicants have to meet several qualifications including holding a Non-Immigrant Visa, having a job offer from Thai employer, and their prospective employer must be financially sound to support such employment.
It is illegal to work in Chiang Mai, or any other part of Thailand without obtaining a work permit before the commencement of work.
Violating the terms of your work permit can result in severe penalties including fines, deportation or being banned from working in Thailand for a defined duration or indefinitely.
In most cases, your work permit can be extended up to one year at a time as long as your non-immigrant visa and the job it is tied to, remain valid.
If you require more information or need assistance with your work permit in Chiang Mai, Thailand, the Ministry of Labor's Department of Employment has resources that can guide you. There are also various legal firms, NGOs, and expat associations who can provide assistance, guidance, and first-hand knowledge about the process of getting a work permit in Chiang Mai.
If you require legal assistance with your work permit, it's advisable to consult with a legal expert who is familiar with Thai labor law. A lawyer can guide you through the application process, ensuring all documents are correctly filled out and submitted. They can also represent your interests in case any issues arise during the application.
