What is a Non-Immigrant B Visa?

Non-Immigrant Visa “B”, commonly known and referred to as a Non-B Visa, is a visa for foreigners who intend to work or conduct business in Thailand. It is issued to foreigners who wish to enter Thailand for various purposes, including but not limited to: 

• Working in a company or a legal entity registered in Thailand
• Conducting a private business or engaging in business activities
• Attending meetings, seminars, or engaging in trade negotiations
• Working as a specialist, teacher, consultant, etc.

Important Information to Know 

• A Non-B Visa is not the same as a Work Permit; it must be applied for separately.
• If you wish to work legally in Thailand, you must obtain both a Non-B Visa and a Work Permit. It is recommended to consult directly with experts in this field to reduce processing time and ensure accuracy and completeness. Simply consult with FDI.

Consult FDI, experts in visas and other work permit applications.

 Compilation of Frequently Asked Questions about the Non-B Visa

1. What is a Non-B Visa?

Answer : The Non-Immigrant B Visa, commonly referred to as the “Non-B Visa,” is a type of visa issued to foreigners who wish to work, conduct business, or participate in business activities in Thailand. It is often the first step before applying for a Work Permit.

2. Who is eligible to apply for a Non-B Visa ?

Answer : Those who are eligible to apply for a Non-B Visa include

• Foreigners employed by a company in Thailand
• Investors who have investments in Thai companies
• Participants in business seminars/meetings
• Experts invited by agencies or organizations in Thailand
  

3. Can a Non-B Visa be used for tourism purposes ?

Answer : No. Each type of visa has its own purpose and specific conditions. The Non-B Visa is strictly intended for business or employment purposes only. If you wish to enter Thailand for tourism, you should apply for a Tourist Visa or use a Visa on Arrival instead.

4. Does a Non-B Visa require a Work Permit as well ?

Answer Yes, a Work Permit is required. If you intend to work in Thailand, you must always have a Work Permit in addition to a Non-B Visa. Having only a Non-B Visa is not sufficient to work legally and fully in the country.

5. Where can I apply for a Non-B Visa ?

Answer : You can apply at a Thai Embassy or Consulate abroad, or at the Immigration Office in Thailand (only in certain cases of visa category change under specific conditions).

Consult FDI, experts in visas and other work permit applications.

6. What documents are required to apply for a Non-B Visa ?

Answer In general, the required documents include:

• Passport
• Official invitation letter issued by a Thai company
• A copy of the company’s certificate of incorporation
• Company registration documents
• Photographs and visa application form (documents may vary depending on the type of Non-B Visa, such as for employment or for attending meetings).
• And other documents, which can be further reviewed for details, or you may consult FDI for assistance in preparing complete and accurate documentation for the application. 

7. How many types of Non-B Visas are there ?

Answer  There are two main types, which include:

• Single Entry Single-entry, valid for 90 days
• may be valid for 6 months, Multiple-entry, valid for 1 year, but requires reporting every 90 days

8. Can a Tourist Visa be changed to a Non-B Visa?

Answer : In some cases, it is possible, but there must be a clear reason along with supporting documents from a Thai company that is ready to employ or invite the applicant for business purposes. The application must be submitted at the Immigration Office in Thailand.

9. After obtaining a Non-B Visa, can I apply for a Work Permit immediately?

Answer : Yes, you can. After obtaining a Non-B Visa, you can immediately apply for a Work Permit at the Department of Employment in the province where you will be working. The application must be submitted within the validity period of the visa granted.

10. How often must I report to the authorities, and how is it done?

Answer Holders of a Non-B Visa who stay in Thailand for more than 90 days are required to report every 90 days at the Immigration Office, or through the online system/postal service. Failure to report on time will result in a fine.

For individuals or companies employing foreign staff, if you are seeking a consultant who can assist in ensuring that work permit applications proceed smoothly in compliance with regulations and the law, you may contact us for consultation. We are ready to provide expert advice to deliver precise solutions and services that truly meet your needs.

Contact Us

• Facebook : FDI Group – Business Consulting
• @fdigroup
• Phone : 02-642-6866, 02-642-6869, 02-642-6895
• E-mail : infojob@fdi.co.th
• Website : www.fdi.co.th