Business Visa for Foreigners (Non-B)

Thai Visa Services

A NON-IMMIGRANT “B” visa, commonly referred to as a Non-B Visa, is a temporary stay visa issued to foreigners who wish to enter Thailand for employment or business purposes. This visa allows the holder to stay in Thailand for up to 90 days per entry. If the applicant intends to stay longer than 90 days, the visa can be extended for 1 year by applying at least 30 days before the visa expires.

Foreigners who wish to work in Thailand are required to obtain not only the Non-B visa but also a Work Permit. Both documents must be held together in order to work, conduct business, or carry out various legal activities in Thailand.

1. Applying from Abroad

Applicants may apply for a NON-IMMIGRANT “B” visa at the Thai Embassy or Consulate in the country where they reside. Required documents may vary depending on the country, and initial information can be obtained directly from the local Thai Consulate.

There are two main types of Non-B business visas:

1.1. Single-Entry Visa – Valid for 3 months. Allows a stay of up to 90 days per entry. Applicants must carry at least 20,000 THB upon entering Thailand.

1.2 Multiple-Entry Visa – Valid for 12 months. Allows a stay of up to 90 days per entry. Applicants must carry at least 40,000 THB per family upon entering Thailand.

2. Changing visa type within Thailand

Foreigners who enter Thailand with a Tourist Visa or a 30-day visa exemption and wish to change their visa type to NON-IMMIGRANT “B” can apply at the Immigration Office.

Those who already hold a NON-IMMIGRANT “B” visa that is nearing expiration may also apply for an extension at the Immigration Office.

To apply for a Thailand business visa, applicants must prepare the following documents. Each document is essential for the application process.

• Visa application form: Completed and signed, obtainable from a Thai Embassy or Consulate
• Passport: Valid for at least 6 months with sufficient blank pages for visa stamps
• Passport-sized photos: Two 4×6 cm photos taken within the last 6 months
• Invitation letter: From a Thai company or business partner stating the purpose and duration of stay
• Company registration documents: Copies of Thai company registration documents such as the Company Certificate, shareholder list, and latest financial statements
• Employment contract (if applicable): Contract or appointment letter specifying job position, salary, and employment period
• Financial evidence: Bank statements or financial documents showing sufficient funds for staying in Thailand
• Travel details: Copy of flight booking showing arrival and departure dates
• Accommodation details: Hotel booking or rental agreement for long-term stay

The application process for a Thailand business visa can be done abroad at a Thai Embassy or Consulate, or in Thailand for those already in the country with another visa type. The main steps are:

Prepare all required documents: Ensure all documents are complete. Documents not in English or Thai must be translated and certified.

Submit the application: Submit the visa application and documents at the Thai Embassy or Consulate. Some embassies may offer online submission. If the applicant is in Thailand with another visa type, they may apply to change the visa to a business visa at the Immigration Office, depending on the case.

Visa processing: Processing time is typically 3–7 business days but may vary by Embassy, Consulate, or the Immigration Office.

Visa issuance: Once approved, the visa will be stamped in the applicant’s passport, allowing entry into Thailand for business purposes.

Although a business visa allows entry into Thailand for business activities, it does not grant permission to work automatically. Foreigners who wish to work must apply for a Work Permit in addition.

1. Obtain a valid Non-Immigrant B Visa: A valid Non-B visa is required before applying.
2. Submit a Work Permit application: The Thai employer must apply on behalf of the foreign employee. Required documents include the employment contract, company financial documents, and the employee’s personal documents.
3. Approval and issuance: Once approved, the foreigner may work according to the details specified in the Work Permit and must carry the Work Permit while working.

Visa duration : The initial stay is 90 days. Further extensions can be applied for at the Immigration Office.

90-day reporting : Foreigners staying longer than 90 days must report their current address every 90 days, either in person, by mail, or through an authorized representative.

Re-entry permit : If planning to leave Thailand while the visa is still valid, a re-entry permit must be obtained to prevent visa cancellation.

Work authorization : A business visa alone does not allow employment. A Work Permit is required to legally work in Thailand.

Summary

A Thailand business visa is an essential document for foreigners who wish to engage in business, work, or explore investment opportunities in Thailand. Understanding the requirements, preparing the necessary documents, and following the correct application procedures will help ensure a smooth process. With the business visa, foreigners can enter Thailand and conduct business activities in accordance with Thai law.

Thai companies hiring foreign employees must have at least 2 million THB in registered paid-up capital per foreign worker, and must maintain a ratio of 1 foreign employee per 4 Thai employees.