The Board of Investment (BOI) is a government agency in Thailand that promotes and facilitates investment in the country. If you are looking to obtain a work permit in Thailand through BOI, it is typically related to employment with a company that has received BOI privileges and incentives. Through a Board of Investment (BOI) approved company, you can apply for a business visa in Thailand along with a work permit to start a business and relocate to Thailand. This article will guide you through the process of applying for and obtaining a BOI Thailand Work Permit.
Why Apply for BOI Thailand Work Permit?
A firm approved by Thailand’s BOI may have 100% foreign ownership and do physical business in Thailand. Whereas, conventional Thai companies have foreign ownership restrictions to a maximum of 49%. In addition, depending on location and type, a BOI firm may qualify for a 0% corporate tax rate for the first 8 years of operation as well as an exemption from V.A.T. for importing machinery.
Unlike conventional Thai companies, BOI companies are not constrained to a 4:1 ratio. Therefore, this makes it easier for BOI-promoted companies to bring in foreign employees. Owing to this reason, the process of obtaining a work permit becomes easier.
In the process of obtaining a BOI Thailand Work Permit, your pre-requisite is holding a Non-immigrant B Visa. You can apply for the same from Royal Thai Embassies or Royal Thai Consulates located in your country.
Without this, obtaining a BOI work permit in Thailand as a foreigner is not possible. Note that, the exact requirements may vary depending on your specific situation and the policies in place at the time of your application.
The steps to obtain a BOI Thailand Work Permit are as follows –
Find Employment
You need to secure a job with a company that has received BOI privileges. BOI privileges are often granted to companies operating in certain industries, such as manufacturing, technology, and services. Make sure your potential employer is eligible for these privileges.
Apply for a Non-Immigrant Visa
Once you have a job offer from a BOI-promoted company, you’ll need to apply for a Non-Immigrant Visa (Type B) at a Thai embassy or consulate in your home country. You will need various documents, including an employment contract and a letter from the BOI-promoted company confirming your employment.
Arrive in Thailand
After receiving your Non-Immigrant Visa, you can enter Thailand. You must do this within a certain timeframe after obtaining the visa.
Submit Work Permit Application
Your employer will need to submit a work permit application on your behalf to the Department of Employment within the Ministry of Labor in Thailand. This application will include various documents such as your employment contract, educational qualifications, and medical certificate.
Medical Checkup
You may be required to undergo a medical checkup at an approved hospital or clinic in Thailand. This is to ensure you are in good health and not carrying any infectious diseases.
Police Clearance Certificate
You may also need to provide a police clearance certificate from your home country or the country where you have lived in the past.
Work Permit Approval
Once your work permit application is approved, you will receive a work permit book.
Notification of Stay
You will need to report your place of residence to the local immigration office within 24 hours of your arrival in Thailand and whenever you change your address.
Renewal and Reporting
Work permits typically need to be renewed annually. You and your employer will need to ensure that all reporting requirements are met throughout your employment in Thailand.
Please note that immigration and work permit requirements in Thailand can change, and it’s essential to check with the Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country or consult with a legal advisor who specializes in Thai immigration and labor laws for the most up-to-date information and guidance regarding the BOI work permit process.
The process can be complex and time-consuming, so it’s advisable to seek professional assistance to navigate the application successfully. Therefore, once you receive a job offer from a prospective BOI company in Thailand, you can contact us for the rest of the procedure. Email us at [email protected] to steadfast your process of obtaining a BOI Thailand work permit.
