The success of Thailand’s economy depends on the twin pillars of tourism and exports, whilst we are at the same time dependent on imports for much of what we consume. Because of this, foreign businessmen frequently have to visit the Kingdom to promote sales and develop business plans. For years, many of these people simply got on a plane and obtained a ‘visa on arrival’ at the airport. Whilst this is technically illegal because such visas are meant to be used only for tourism, it was very convenient. Of late, however the authorities have tightened the rules relating to the number and frequency of issuance of tourist visas, so if you plan to visit on business it would be advisable to obtain the correct visa. The Immigration department has briefed us on the procedure andthe details follow.

Foreign citizens who wish to visit Thailand for business purposes may apply for a three-year Non-Immigrant Visa “B”. This type of visa will permit businessmen to make multiple entries and is valid for three years. It allows the holder to visit Thailand as often as required for as long as the visa remains valid, and to stay in Thailand for a period not exceeding 90 days during each visit. Any form of domestic employment by the holders of such a visa whilst visiting the Kingdom is strictly prohibited.

Place of application
Applications should be submitted to the Royal Thai Embassy or the Royal Thai Consulate General in theapplicant’s country of residence,or at the Royal Thai Embassy which has jurisdiction over his or her country of residence. However, Royal Thai Consulates General, which are headed by an HonoraryConsul General are not authorised to issue this type of visa. Applicants may enquire from any Royal Thai Embassy or Royal Thai Consulate-General, for details of which offices are able to perform this service. Informationon contact details and locations of Royal Thai Embassies and Royal Thai Consulates General is also available at www.mfa.go.th/web/10.php.

Required Documentation

Applicants for a three-year Non-Immigrant Visa “B” must submit the following documents:

Basic documents

1. An application form completed in full and signed by the applicant.
   A passport valid for travel to Thailand with sufficient remaining validity.
   Two passport-sized photographs (4x6cm) taken within the previous 6 months.
   
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Additional documents which may be requested:

1. National Identity Card, residence documentation or valid proof of identity.
2. A letter from the employer giving details of the applicant’s position, length of employment, salary and purpose of the visit(s) to Thailand. If the applicant is self-employed, he or she must provide documentation of his or her business undertaking, such as business registration and details of business operation.
3. Copies of correspondence with business partners in Thailand.
4. A letter of invitation from trading or associated partners/companies in Thailand.
5. Corporate documents of associated partners/companies in Thailand such as:

• business registration and business license
• list of shareholders
• company profile
• details of business operation
• map indicating location of the company
• balance sheet, statement of Income Tax and Business Tax (Por Ngor Dor 50 and Por Ngor Dor 30) of the latest year
• value-added tax registration (Por Por 20) A letter of recommendation from previous employer or business associations of which the applicant is member.

Visa fee

• The fee is 10,000 Baht.
  

Remarks

• The required additional documents (4 – 9) must be submitted upon request.
  
• Supplementary documents may be requested as and when necessary.
  
• The issuance of a visa is at the discretion of the consular officer.
  
• The visa fee is non-refundable.

Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs www.mfa.go.th