If you’re planning to work, invest, or start a business in Thailand, obtaining a Thailand Business Visa officially called the Non-Immigrant B Visa is the essential first step. This visa allows foreign nationals to legally conduct business-related activities in the country, including attending meetings, working for a Thai company, or managing their own business. Valid for up to 90 days, the visa can be extended and upgraded to a One-Year Business Visa for long-term activities. Whether you are applying for the first time or switching from a tourist visa, understanding the legal requirements is crucial to avoid rejections or delays. Themis Partner’s legal team can help streamline your visa and work permit process, ensuring compliance with Thai immigration law and faster approvals.
What is a Thailand Business Visa (Non-Immigrant B Visa)?
The Thailand Business Visa (Non-Immigrant B Visa) is a special visa category that permits foreigners to enter Thailand for the purpose of employment, company management, or business investment. Unlike a tourist visa, the Business Visa explicitly allows work-related activities under Thai immigration law. This visa initially grants a 90-day stay, but can be extended to a one-year Business Visa Thailand, enabling you to stay long-term for business purposes. For official definitions and detailed guidelines, you can visit the Thai Immigration Bureau website.
Who is eligible to apply for a Business Visa in Thailand?
To qualify for a Business Visa Thailand, applicants must demonstrate a genuine intention to work or conduct business. Eligible applicants include:
➤ Employees hired by Thai companies or subsidiaries
➤ Foreign investors holding shares or managing companies registered in Thailand
➤ Executives or senior managers transferred from foreign corporations
➤ Entrepreneurs intending to establish or run businesses in Thailand
If you’re simply a tourist or visitor, a Business Visa is not applicable. Thai embassies and consulates verify these qualifications rigorously to prevent visa misuse. For precise eligibility conditions, check the Royal Thai Embassy website.
How do I apply for a Thailand Business Visa from abroad?
The Thailand Business Visa application process must start at a Thai embassy or consulate outside Thailand. Here’s how to apply:
4. Attend interviews or biometrics, if required by the embassy
5. Wait for processing, usually 3–10 business days
ℹ️ If you plan to stay longer in Thailand, it’s essential to understand the extension process for your Business Visa. Download the Business visa extension to prepare your application confidently.
Remarks:
You cannot convert a tourist visa into a Business Visa inside Thailand you must apply from abroad.
What documents are required for a Business Visa application?
Applying for a Business Visa Thailand (Non-Immigrant B Visa) requires careful preparation. Below is a full list of documents typically requested by Thai embassies and consulates abroad. Make sure your documents are complete and up to date to avoid delays or rejection.
➤ Educational or professional qualifications: Degrees, certifications, or relevant experience for the job offered
➤ Business license or permit: If you’re setting up a company in Thailand
➤ Letter of explanation: If applying under special circumstances, business negotiations or investment scouting
Can I extend my Business Visa while in Thailand?
Yes, it is possible to extend your Business Visa Thailand (Non-Immigrant B Visa) after the initial 90-day period, provided that you meet all the necessary legal and administrative conditions. This extension is typically granted to individuals who are employed by a Thai company or conducting legitimate business operations in the country.
To apply for the visa extension, you must visit the nearest Thai Immigration Office and submit a complete application. Your employer must provide an updated support letter confirming your current employment, position, salary, and the company’s intention to continue your engagement. Additionally, your company must prove it is compliant with Thai labor and tax regulations this includes submitting up-to-date corporate registration documents, tax filings, and evidence of social security contributions for Thai employees. You will also need to present your valid passport, current visa stamp, a completed TM.7 application form, and proof of financial stability. The government fee for processing the extension is currently 1,900 THB, though this amount may be subject to change.
If approved, the extension transforms your initial 90-day visa into a One-Year Business Visa Thailand, allowing you to remain in the country without needing to leave and re-enter. However, it’s important to remember that even with this visa, you are still required to complete 90-day reporting at your local immigration office. It’s essential to understand that visa extensions are not guaranteed. Incomplete documentation or non-compliance by your sponsoring company can lead to a denied application. Moreover, applying late or overstaying your current visa can result in fines or even deportation. For the most accurate and current guidelines, consult the official Thai Immigration Bureau website.
Submitting your 90-day report on time is mandatory to stay compliant with Thai immigration law.
Download the 90-day report to help you complete this important requirement.
How can I convert a 90-day visa into a One-Year Business Visa?
To upgrade your 90-day Thailand Business Visa to a one-year visa:
➤ Enter Thailand holding a valid Non-Immigrant B Visa
➤ Apply for an extension within the visa’s initial validity period
➤ Present evidence of ongoing employment or active business operations
➤ Receive approval for a one-year visa, allowing multiple re-entries into Thailand
If you plan to leave Thailand temporarily during your one-year Business Visa, obtaining a re-entry permit is crucial to maintain your visa status. Download the Re-entry permit to secure your travel plans without risking your visa.
What is the difference between a Business Visa and a SMART Visa?
While the Business Visa Thailand covers general work and business purposes, the SMART Visa targets highly skilled professionals and investors in specific industries such as technology, biotech, and innovation startups.
Can I apply for a work permit with a Business Visa?
Yes, you can apply for a work permit in Thailand, but only after obtaining a Business Visa Thailand, officially known as the Non-Immigrant B Visa. This visa is a mandatory prerequisite for any foreigner who intends to work legally in the country. Once you have your valid Business Visa, you can submit a work permit application to the Thai Ministry of Labour, detailing your job title, employer information, and the nature of your responsibilities. Both the visa and the work permit are legally required; holding one without the other is not sufficient. Working in Thailand without proper authorization can lead to severe penalties, including fines, deportation, and blacklisting, which can affect your future travel or employment in the region. For accurate and up-to-date information on eligibility and the application process, consult the official Thai Ministry of Labour website.
ℹ️ To legally work in Thailand after obtaining your Business Visa, applying for a work permit is mandatory. Download the Work permit application to get started on your application.
What are the advantages of hiring a lawyer for your Business Visa process?
Hiring a lawyer to assist with your Thailand Business Visa application offers significant advantages, especially for foreign entrepreneurs and professionals unfamiliar with Thai immigration procedures. Managing the process alone can lead to delays, rejections, or non-compliance with local regulations. Legal experts ensure all documentation is correctly prepared and aligned with the latest immigration and labor laws. They also streamline the application by communicating directly with Thai government offices, which helps speed up approvals and reduces the risk of administrative errors. In the event of complications such as visa refusal, missed deadlines, or extension issues a qualified lawyer can intervene and represent your interests effectively. Most importantly, legal support provides peace of mind, allowing you to concentrate on your business while professionals handle the legal complexities. At Themis Partner in Hong Kong, our legal team specializes in Thailand Business Visas, offering personalized assistance to help you navigate the process with confidence and full legal compliance.
Conclusion: Why Choose Themis Partner for Your Thailand Business Visa Application?
Navigating the business visa process in Thailand can be complex, especially with the strict requirements for documentation, company compliance, and work authorization. Whether you’re applying for a first-time Non-Immigrant B Visa or seeking to extend your current Business Visa, ensuring your application is complete and aligned with Thai regulations is essential to avoid costly delays or rejections. At Themis Partner, our legal experts provide tailor-made visa solutions based on your professional profile and business objectives. We offer end-to-end support, including document preparation, legal compliance checks, and direct assistance with Thai immigration authorities. Download your Thailand Business Visa application documents today and manage your entry into the Thai business landscape with clarity and legal confidence.
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