It has been reported in the Nation newspaper that changes are underway in Thai visa and work permit regulations. According to Ms. Issara Wongkusolkij, the chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, the primary change to work permit regulations is the segregation of regulations for unskilled labor and foreign investors. More support will be provided for foreign investors with additional changes to business and foreign visas.

Some changes have already been implemented in the procedures for work permits. A new online option for 90 day reporting is now available. Foreign business person who are coming to Thailand for a meeting no longer are required to obtain a work permit. However a business person who has the power to authorize contracts or approve agreements still require a work permit. Business persons who want to visit an exhibition in Thailand are exempted from getting a work permit but a work permit is required if they open a booth or trade at a fair (work permit exemptions for a state-run exhibition).

With the proper documentation guaranteeing their employment during the period, foreign teachers can not apply for a two year work visa. For Foreign Students, an education visa will still only be good for up to one year if they are studying the same course or subject. Additional changes have been made to allow foreigners who enter Thailand for medical services to obtain a 90 day Thai visa will extensions based on medical necessity.

The process for getting work permits and visa will be stream lined for business persons visiting Thailand on a temporary basis. The use of technology and automation will provide better access for foreigners who cannot communicate in Thai. The changes and amendments are still new but it is hope that they will improve the public’s interaction with the Thai government.

You can check what type of Thai visa is appropriate for you by visiting this page.