Written by the Thai Legal & Immigration legal team · Last reviewed · Editorial policy
Any work performed in Thailand by a foreigner requires a work permit issued by the Department of Employment, unless a specific exemption applies. The permit is tied to an employer, a job description and a workplace.
Since 2020 most permits are issued and managed digitally. Amendments — new position, new workplace, additional employer — must be filed before the change takes effect.
What we handle
- New work permit applications (WP.3 pre-approval and WP.1).
- Renewals aligned with visa extensions.
- Amendments for job title, workplace or employer changes.
- Cancellation on termination and return of permit.
- Medical certificate and photograph requirements coordination.
How the process works
Step 1
Employer eligibility
Capital, headcount and restricted-occupation check.
Step 2
Application
Online filing with supporting corporate and personal documents.
Step 3
Issuance
Permit issued digitally; employee briefed on conditions.
Step 4
Maintenance
Renewal and amendment calendar maintained.
Not sure this route fits you?
Get a Free Preliminary Eligibility Review from our licensed team.
Why are applications refused, and how do we prepare?
| Common refusal reason | How we prepare |
|---|---|
| Company capital or Thai-staff ratio below requirement | We check the company structure before filing. |
| Occupation reserved for Thai nationals | We review the job title and duties first. |
Counsel's note
Certain occupations are reserved for Thai nationals under the Foreign Workers Management Emergency Decree. We check the job description against the reserved list before filing.
Frequently asked
Can I start work before the permit is issued?
What happens when I leave my employer?
Advice by nationality
Why clients choose us
Six licensed Thai attorneys
Including Notarial Services Attorneys registered with the Lawyers Council of Thailand.
77 provinces covered
Offices in Bangkok and Khon Kaen with field representatives nationwide.
Your passport stays with you
We work from copies and only handle originals for filings you approve.
Honest assessment first
A Free Preliminary Eligibility Review tells you your options before any engagement.
Sources & references
- Department of Employment — checked 2026-11-03
- Thailand Board of Investment — checked 2026-11-03
General information only, not legal advice. Immigration decisions rest with the Thai authorities. See our disclaimer.