In today’s world, where investments and businesses are connected globally, many expats choose to invest or work in Thailand. Because of this, BOI visas and work permits have become essential for both businesspeople and expats here. We’ve put together some useful information about BOI visas and work permits through the Single Window system to help you out.
What is a BOI Visa?
A BOI visa is a special type of visa issued by Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI). Its goal is to attract foreign companies to invest in Thailand and to bring in highly skilled professionals to work and develop targeted industries. This helps elevate Thai companies to higher standards and fosters greater innovation.
Work Permit
A Work Permit is a document issued by the Department of Employment under the Ministry of Labour. It allows expats to legally work as employees in Thailand. Expats must apply for and receive approval from the relevant authorities before starting their work.
Differences Between a BOI Visa and Other Types of Visas
A BOI visa is considered a special visa designed to promote investment and attract highly skilled expat employees. It offers various benefits and support from the BOI, which are generally more favorable. The application process is less complicated since you can apply for both the visa and the work permit at the same place, the One Stop Service Center at Chamchuri Square. In contrast, the Non-B visa, which is the standard work visa for expats, involves a more complex application process.
What is the Single Window, Why is it Matter for Getting a BOI Visa?
The Single Window system is an online service that allows applicants to submit requests and accompanying documents simultaneously to three main agencies:
- Board of Investment (BOI)
- Immigration Bureau
- Department of Employment
Benefits for Entrepreneurs Supported by BOI:
- Convenience: Submit applications online without worrying about time and location.
- Systematic Process: Receive approvals at every step in one go, making it easier and faster to bring in skilled expats to work in Thailand.
Advantages of Having a BOI Visa and Work Permit
Tax and Investment Benefits:
- Exemption from import duties on machinery, raw materials, and equipment used in the production process.
- Tax deductions on corporate and personal income taxes for investors and employees.
- Special privileges for income tax exemptions on exports.
Special Privileges for Working and Living in Thailand:
- Access to social benefits such as health insurance and other work-related benefits.
- Legal permission to work in Thailand.
Support from the Government and Related Agencies:
- Support in investment, research and development, business networking, and market expansion from the government and related agencies.
Ease of Access to Services:
- Access to BOI services, benefits, consultations, and assistance in various aspects of investment.
Steps to Apply for a BOI Visa and Work Permit
Application Process at the One Start One Stop Service Center
Preparation and Submission:
- The company must be promoted by the Board of Investment (BOI) to apply for a BOI visa and work permit for its expat employees.
- Submit the visa application through the BOI via the Single Window for Visa and Work Permit system, accessible at https://swe-expert.boi.go.th.
For Expats with a Non-B or Non-IB Visa from the Previous Company:
- Request approval for the expat’s position.
- Request to hire the expat and apply for permission for the family to enter the country.
For Expats without a Non-B or Non-IB Visa from the Previous Company:
- Request approval for the expat’s position.
- Request cooperation to stamp the visa for the expat and family.
- Request to hire the expat and apply for permission for the family to enter the country.
Review and Approval:
- BOI officers will check the documents and review the visa and work permit application. If the documents are correct and complete, the visa and work permit will be approved within approximately 3-5 business days.
Receiving the BOI Visa and Work Permit:
- Upon approval of the BOI visa and work permit (in the case of a Digital Work Permit), the company will receive a notification to schedule an appointment for identity verification.
- After scheduling the appointment, the system will display the appointment date. Print the appointment slip and fee payment slip to receive the visa and work permit in the next steps.
Documents Required for BOI Visa and Work Permit Applications
Documents Required for BOI Visa Application:
- Passport (including copies of all stamped pages)
- Digital file of a 4×6 cm photograph for uploading to the Single Window system
- BOI Promotion Certificate from the company
- Business license (if applicable)
- Copies of Company Registration Documents
- Visa Application Form
- Other necessary documents, such as an invitation letter from the company in Thailand, personal history, and work history
Documents Required for Work Permit Application:
- Passport (including copies of all stamped pages)
- Non-Immigrant B visa (or BOI visa for those promoted by the BOI)
- Digital file of a 4×6 cm photograph for uploading to the Single Window system
- Other necessary documents, such as an invitation letter from the employer and copies of the Company Registration Documents issued by the Department of Business Development, Ministry of Commerce
RLC Services for BOI Visa and Work Permit Applications
Applying for a BOI visa and work permit is an integral part of human resource management. Our company, RLC, possesses the knowledge and expertise in providing visa and work permit services as an experienced HR outsourcing provider.
This allows your company to focus entirely on your core business operations without worrying about the paperwork and visa application processes. The RLC team will manage the entire process, from document preparation and position application through the Single Window system to follow-up. We also provide consulting services tailored to meet the specific needs of each company.
FAQ
What is a BOI Visa?
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- A BOI visa is a visa issued to expats working with companies promoted by Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI).
Who is eligible to apply for a BOI Visa?
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- Senior executives and managers
- Experts and professionals
- Employees and technicians
- Family members of employees holding a BOI visa
- Investors involved in companies promoted by the BOI
How long does it take to process a BOI Visa application?
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- Generally, it takes about 3-5 business days, depending on the process and the complexity of the documents.
Can a BOI Visa be renewed?
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- Currently, it can be renewed up to 90 days in advance, and the visa must not have less than 15 days remaining.
What is a Work Permit?
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- A Work Permit is a document issued by the Department of Employment under the Ministry of Labour for expats who want to work in Thailand.
How long does it take to process a Work Permit application?
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- Approximately 3-5 business days.
Can a Work Permit be renewed?
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- Yes, it can be renewed up to 90 days in advance, and the permit must not have less than 15 days remaining.
What should be done if a Work Permit application is rejected?
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- Contact the Department of Employment to understand the reason for rejection and make the necessary corrections. Applications can be corrected and resubmitted up to 3 times. If rejected more than 3 times, a new application must be submitted.
Can expats work in Thailand without a Work Permit?
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- Working in Thailand without a Work Permit is illegal and may result in penalties.
Summary
Having a BOI visa and work permit not only helps companies promoted by the Board of Investment (BOI) bring in foreign experts and senior executives to enhance their operations but also facilitates the transfer of knowledge, experience, and skills development to local personnel.
Choosing RLC’s services for obtaining BOI visas and work permits is a convenient and efficient option. It significantly reduces the complexity of the process, allowing business owners to focus on managing their business growth both domestically and internationally.
SEO Specialist and Client Success at RLC Outsourcing