Thailand’s visa exemption no longer covers work. Here’s who needs a visa now

Thailand recently announced that its visa exemption policy will no longer permit certain activities, including work. The change will take effect on September 15, 2023, rendering the 60-day exemption that previously allowed limited business activities obsolete. Effective this date, entering Thailand without a visa will only be allowed for tourism purposes.

This new rule has far-reaching implications for travelers, as the distinction between tourism and work is more significant than it may initially appear. Under the new framework, any individual arriving in Thailand with the intention of working from September 15 onward will require a Non-Immigrant B visa obtained before their departure.

This includes consultants, engineers, and speakers involved in short-term projects, as well as those signing contracts or conducting other work-related activities. The situation becomes more complex for remote workers, as the announcement does not explicitly address their status. While the standard tourist visa is the most straightforward solution, the "Destination Thailand Visa" is an alternative option for individuals whose income originates abroad.

However, the status of Urgent Work Permit applications under the new 30-day exemption remains unclear, with immigration advisory firm Newland Chase stating that further clarification is needed from the Department of Employment. This uncertainty may prompt travelers with pre-booked work engagements to treat their trips as requiring a proper visa rather than relying on the exemption.

To avoid any complications, it is advisable for travelers to make their entries before September 15, as entries made prior to the new rule take effect will still be granted based on the current regulations.