Work and careers in Thailand
Who can work in Thailand, which jobs are closed to foreigners, where to look, and how to start a business.
✓ Checked against the sources: October 2026⚠️ This isn't legal advice. Visa requirements change, so always check the official source or a lawyer.
First: a work permit
Every foreigner who works in Thailand needs a work permit before starting work, EU passport or not. Working without one can lead to a fine or even prison. If you come to work for a Thai employer, you usually enter on a Non-Immigrant B visa and apply for the permit with the Department of Employment.
There are other routes too: the LTR visa for highly skilled professionals, and the DTV visa for remote workers and digital nomads. The requirements for each visa are on the official sites.
Source: BOI One Start One Stop: visa and work permit · BOI: Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa · Ministry of Foreign Affairs: types of visa (PDF)
Jobs closed to foreigners
Some occupations are prohibited to foreigners under Thai law, for example clerical and secretarial work and tour guiding. Check the list before you look for work or accept an offer.
🔒 2 more sections in this guide
- 🔎 Where to look
- 🧑💻 Starting a business
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