Working In Thailand
Do you want to move to Thailand but don’t know what to do for work? Don’t worry, you are not alone! Many ex-pats move to Thailand every year in search of a new adventure, and many of them find work in their field. In this blog post, we will discuss the different options that are available for ex-pats working in Thailand.
If you are looking for a career change and want to experience the exciting cultures of other countries, then an international relocation to Thailand might be perfect. There are plenty of opportunities in Bangkok and other Thai cities where multinational corporations have positions available depending on your skillset or desired lifestyle requirements! Though most businesses prefer local hires because they offer better labor costs; if specialized expertise exists within this field think logistics industry nor financial sectors, expatriates may negotiate transfers.
Main types of work for ex-pats in Thailand
Teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL)
TEFL work is a great way to make some extra money while you’re traveling. If your qualifications allow it, consider teaching at an international school or English language college in Thailand where wages can be higher than local markets offer Teaching private students may be a way to make some extra money on the side. In smaller institutions, you might find yourself frustrated by the lack of resources and 9-5 workdays that are very similar in nature to your regular job at larger schools with more staff members involved. In order to earn the most possible money teaching English abroad, you’ll need proper accreditation or qualifications.
A TEFL course is a requirement for many schools and employers and will cover the different methods of teaching students from different language backgrounds. Depending on your level of education and experience, you can expect to be able to find work at an international school in Thailand as early as your first month living there if you bring with you an advanced degree, are willing to start out part-time and complete teacher training courses like a TEFL certificate program. If you don’t have these qualifications but are still interested in working overseas, consider taking a job at one of Thailand’s rural schools where teachers are often needed year-round.
Multinational corporations/specialized jobs
While most companies prefer to hire local specialists, there are opportunities for foreigners with the right experience or specific qualifications. Many international organizations have a base in Bangkok and may be looking at hiring foreign employees on an individual skill basis as well in the Tourism industry.
If you’re an expatriate living outside of Bangkok, there are great opportunities for divers with PADI qualifications. You can also study and qualify while in Thailand on diving instruction or “liveaboards” where employees live aboard a boat offering tours to tourists – this is popular at places such as Koh Tao, and Phi-Phi Island Krabi. Working in a multinational corporation can be beneficial as you often get to work with people from all over the world. This can help you learn new skills and gain valuable experience. Many of these organizations also have branches in other countries, so there may be opportunities to travel or transfer to another country.
If you’re interested in working in a specific industry, Bangkok is a great place to start your job search. There are many multinational corporations with headquarters or regional offices in Bangkok, so there are often job openings for foreigners with the right qualifications or experience. These industries include banking and finance, hospitality and tourism, information technology, and manufacturing.
Some companies will hire ex-pats to sell timeshares, engage with foreign buyers on real estate purchases, or overall manage operations or take care of developments. The hiring process for these positions can be difficult, but it is worth the effort if you can make it in this growing industry.
Selling timeshares is a common way for ex-pats to make money in the real estate industry. Asking people from your home country what they think about buying property overseas can be a great way to get started. It can also lead to potential investors if you are able to secure financing and help them purchase land or buildings. Many countries have specific laws regulating foreign ownership of the real estate, so it’s important to do thorough research on this before attempting any sales.
Working remotely or as a digital nomad for an online business
If you are a digital nomad and can work remotely Thailand is a good destination for you. As an ex-pat who is a digital nomad, you already have a job making income and you are coming into Thailand with a job and salary/income already in place and which makes working out of Thailand the easiest way to begin. Also, the living costs in Thailand are lower than in other countries so you can live well on a remote worker’s salary. The caveat is that you need to have a job that allows you to work remotely and not all jobs do.
Another way to make an income while traveling is by running an online business. This can be done in a number of ways but some popular methods are dropshipping, affiliate marketing, and running a digital course or product. All of these require an internet connection and some basic know-how but can be started without much upfront investment. For dropshipping, you can use platforms like Shopify to create an eCommerce store with little cost and then connect it with Oberlo to source products. Affiliate marketing involves promoting other people’s products or services and earning a commission on each sale. And finally, running a digital course or product is a great way to share your knowledge and expertise with others while also earning an income.
Tips for the process:
Working in Thailand is not as straightforward or easy for English-speaking ex-pats. Make sure you research what qualifications are needed, and whether they can be obtained before your trip starts or while there through the appropriate channels at the Thai Immigration Office. It’s also important to watch out for wages as they will change depending on the type of job if the job can be filled by an ex-pat. Networking remains key because many employers won’t advertise their vacancies and even then, places might require specific nonimmigrant visas.
To find ex-pats already in contact with the Thai business community, visit forums like Thaivisa, which covers everything from visas to language schools and other cultural advice. For job seekers, the site has a special section with classified ads. The website also includes a business directory.
When looking for a job in Thailand, it is important consider what kind of visa will be When looking for a job in Thailand, it is important to consider what kind of visa will be required for the position you are interested in.
Many employers won’t advertise their vacancies, so networking is key.
The website Thaivisa is a good resource for job seekers, as it has a special section for classified ads and also includes a business directory.
Other useful websites for job seekers include forums like Thaivisa and popular ex-pat communities like InterNations.
There are also many recruitment agencies in Thailand that can help you find a job, so it is worth doing some research to find the best ones for your needs.
Visas and work permits are needed for those wanting to work in Thailand. The requirements change frequently especially due to COVID, so contact your respective embassy or consulate for the latest updates. You need both a visa and permit if the long-term residence is desired. Failure to comply could result in deportation. You may also be required to bring a copy of the employer’s request for sponsorship, as well.
Foreigners are allowed to work in Thailand if they have obtained certain documents, such as a visa and permit from the proper agencies. The specifications change often due to COVID-19 and other ongoing changes, so it is best to contact your respective embassy or consulate for updates before traveling. In addition, you need these documents if you’re planning on staying in Thailand long-term.
Everyone needs:
A passport that is valid for six months after the date of entry
Visa application forms
Recent photographs of the applicant
Proof of adequate finances for the duration of the stay
Working in Thailand without the correct permit may lead to deportation and there could even be grounds for a prison sentence. It is important that you obtain all your necessary paperwork before arrival or risk having this happen. One thing also to remember is that to get a work permit, you’ll need a health certificate. You can get a health certificate at most clinics, government, and private hospitals in Thailand.
Wrap Up
The opportunities in Thailand are endless for you to either land a job and move here or come here as a digital nomad who is working remotely. Most work can be done with English language skills but if you are working in an office environment with the locals you will need to learn the local language. Overall, the country itself has a good reputation for being expat-friendly.
Take a look at one of our other blogs on Why Bangkok is an amazing place to live.
