Thailand has long been a hub for international business, offering exciting opportunities for foreign investors, skilled professionals, and entrepreneurs. If you plan to work, start a business, or engage in professional activities in Thailand, the Non-Immigrant B Visa is the key to legally entering and staying in the country.
This visa is designed for foreigners seeking employment, business opportunities, or investment in Thailand. It is a crucial requirement for obtaining a work permit and conducting business activities in compliance with Thai immigration and labor laws.
At Legal First Thailand, we specialize in guiding individuals and businesses through the visa application process, ensuring compliance with all legal requirements. Whether you are a company looking to hire foreign employees or an individual seeking to work in Thailand, we can help you navigate the complexities of obtaining and maintaining your Non-Immigrant B Visa with ease.
Explore our complete guide below to understand the requirements, application process, and how we can assist you in making your Thai business journey smooth and hassle-free.
How to Obtain a Business Visa (Non-Immigrant B) in Thailand: A Step-by-Step Guide
Thailand’s thriving economy and strategic location make it a prime destination for entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals looking to conduct business or work legally. The Non-Immigrant B Visa, commonly referred to as the Business Visa, is the essential first step for foreigners aiming to engage in business activities or employment in Thailand. As of March 2025, here’s your detailed guide to securing this visa—with expert support from Legal First Hua Hin to ensure a seamless process.
What is the Non-Immigrant B Visa?
The Non-Immigrant B Visa is designed for foreigners intending to work, conduct business, or invest in Thailand. It’s initially valid for 90 days (single-entry) or up to one year (multiple-entry), with the possibility of extensions if paired with a work permit or business activities. This visa is a prerequisite for applying for a Thai work permit if you plan to be employed.
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
The Non-Immigrant B Visa is available for two main purposes:
- Employment: You must have a job offer from a Thai company willing to sponsor your visa and work permit.
- Business Activities: You need to conduct business (e.g., meetings, setting up a company) without immediate employment, often requiring an invitation from a Thai business entity.
You’ll also need to meet basic requirements, such as having a valid passport and sufficient funds, detailed below.
Step 2: Secure Sponsorship or Invitation
Before applying, you need documentation from a Thai entity:
- For Employment: A Thai employer must provide a job offer letter, employment contract, and initiate a work permit pre-approval (Form WP.3) through the Ministry of Labour.
- For Business: A Thai company or partner must issue an invitation letter detailing your purpose (e.g., meetings, investment), along with their business registration documents.
Pro Tip: Ensure your Thai sponsor is a registered entity; unregistered or non-compliant companies can lead to visa rejection.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
You’ll need to prepare the following for your visa application:
- A valid passport (with at least 6 months’ validity and 2 blank pages).
- Completed visa application form (available from Thai embassies/consulates or online via e-Visa systems).
- Passport-sized photos (typically 4×6 cm, taken within the last 6 months).
- Proof of financial stability: Evidence of 20,000 THB (around $580 USD) per person or 40,000 THB per family.
- For Employment:
- Job offer letter or employment contract from a Thai company.
- Pre-approval letter (WP.3) from the Ministry of Labour, if applicable.
- For Business:
- Invitation letter from the Thai company.
- Thai company documents (business license, registration, tax records).
- Visa fee: Around 2,000 THB ($58 USD) for single-entry or 5,000 THB ($145 USD) for multiple-entry, depending on the embassy.
Note: Requirements may vary slightly by embassy or consulate—check with your local Thai mission for specifics.
Step 4: Apply at a Thai Embassy or Consulate
The Non-Immigrant B Visa must be applied for outside Thailand at a Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate:
- In-Person or Online: Many embassies now offer e-Visa applications (e.g., via thaievisa.go.th). If applying in person, book an appointment.
- Submit your documents and pay the visa fee.
- Processing Time: Typically 5–10 business days, depending on the embassy and your nationality.
Pro Tip: Apply at the Thai embassy in your home country or a neighboring country where you have legal residency—some embassies have jurisdiction restrictions.
Step 5: Enter Thailand and Complete Additional Steps
Once your visa is approved:
- Enter Thailand within the visa’s validity period (90 days for single-entry, or within one year for multiple-entry).
- You’ll be granted an initial stay of up to 90 days.
- Address Reporting: Report your address to Immigration within 24 hours of arrival (often handled by your hotel or landlord).
- 90-Day Reporting: If staying beyond 90 days without leaving, report to Immigration every 90 days.
If employed, you’ll need to apply for a work permit within this initial 90-day period (see our Work Permit Guide for details).
Step 6: Extend or Convert Your Visa (Optional)
- Extension: If you have a work permit or ongoing business activities, you can extend your Non-Immigrant B Visa for up to one year at a Thai Immigration Office. Required documents include your work permit, employer letters, and a fee of 1,900 THB ($55 USD).
- Re-Entry Permit: If holding a single-entry visa and you need to leave Thailand, apply for a re-entry permit (1,000 THB for single re-entry) to avoid voiding your visa.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Working Without a Permit: A Non-Immigrant B Visa alone doesn’t permit employment—you must secure a work permit to work legally.
- Incomplete Documentation: Missing or uncertified documents (e.g., untranslated company papers) can lead to delays or rejection.
- Overstaying: Exceeding your permitted stay incurs fines of 500 THB per day and risks deportation or blacklisting.
Final Thoughts
The Non-Immigrant B Visa is your gateway to legally conducting business or working in Thailand, offering flexibility for entrepreneurs and professionals alike. While the process involves several steps and careful documentation, it’s manageable with the right guidance. At Legal First Hua Hin, we specialize in assisting foreigners with every stage of the Non-Immigrant B Visa application—from document preparation to liaising with Thai authorities—ensuring your business journey in Thailand starts smoothly. Contact us today to simplify your path to success!
Have questions about the Non-Immigrant B Visa or need tailored advice? Reach out—we’re here to help!
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