Thailand Employment Law for Foreigners

Understanding work permits, restricted occupations, and the legal complexities of working in Thailand as a foreigner.

Warning

Working Without a Permit Is a Criminal Offense

Under the Working of Aliens Act B.E. 2551 (2008), foreigners caught working without a valid work permit face penalties including fines up to THB 100,000, imprisonment up to 5 years, and deportation with re-entry bans. Immigration checkpoints and workplace raids are increasingly common.

Employment Law Guides

Comprehensive guides to Thailand's employment laws affecting foreigners who want to work legally

Thailand Work Permit Guide

Complete application process explained

  • Who needs a work permit Flagship
  • Work permit vs. work visa distinction
  • Application process step-by-step
  • Required documents checklist
  • Employer sponsorship requirements
  • Processing times and fees
Read Full Guide →

Jobs Foreigners Cannot Do

39 restricted occupations explained

  • Complete list of 39 restricted jobs Protected
  • Why certain jobs are reserved for Thais
  • Exceptions and qualifications
  • Penalties for violations
  • Common misconceptions
Read Full Guide →

Freelancing in Thailand

Legal gray zones for foreign freelancers

  • Remote work vs. local work DTV Era
  • What counts as "working in Thailand"
  • Invoice and payment issues
  • Tax implications for freelancers
  • Risk assessment for digital nomads
Read Full Guide →

Teaching in Thailand

Visa, work permit, and license requirements

  • Teacher's Council license requirements
  • Degree and TEFL requirements
  • Non-B visa for teachers
  • School types: international vs. government
  • Common pitfalls and scams
Read Full Guide →

Hiring Thai Staff & Payroll

Employer obligations under Thai labor law

  • Employment contract requirements
  • Social security contributions
  • Minimum wage by province
  • Termination rules and severance
  • 4:1 Thai to foreign worker ratio
Read Full Guide →

Key Employment Statutes for Foreigners

Working of Aliens Act B.E. 2551

Primary law governing foreign employment in Thailand. Requires work permits for any foreigner performing work.

Up to 5 Years Prison + THB 100K Fine

Royal Decree on Restricted Occupations

Lists 39 occupations reserved exclusively for Thai nationals, regardless of work permit status.

Criminal Penalties + Deportation

Labor Protection Act B.E. 2541

Governs employment conditions, wages, working hours, and termination. Applies to both Thai and foreign workers.

Civil Remedies

Immigration Act B.E. 2522

Governs entry, stay, and departure of foreigners. Work visa categories and overstay penalties.

Deportation + Re-entry Bans

Related Legal Topics

Visa

Visas & Immigration
Remote

DTV Digital Nomad Visa
Business

Business & FBA
Hub

Thailand Legal Hub