Visas To Thailand
Each year, many people opt to travel to the Kingdom of Thailand in order to explore the beautiful beaches, exotic nightlife and interesting scenes. For many, the trip is a matter of days, but for others a long vacation awaits. If one would like to remain in Thailand for a period of more than 15 to 30 days, a Thai visa is most likely required in order to maintain lawful presence. Those who obtain long term Thai visas are initially taken aback by some of the notations on the visa.
For example, some visas to Thailand are stamped with a notation which states: "Employment Prohibited." Angst is sometimes created because the visa holder thinks this means that he or she cannot get a job at any time. As a practical matter, this simply denotes that employment is not allowed based only upon the visa. The Thai government has bifurcated the right to work and the right to remain in the Kingdom of Thailand. Much like a United States business visa (B-1), the bearer is simply entitled to travel and ask for permission to enter the country for business related purposes which do not constitute employment in the USA. This same issue is often experienced by those in Thailand on a Thai business visa. Many are under the mistaken impression that a business visa alone is enough to work legally in Thailand. In point of fact, only a Thai work permit entitles a foreigner to work in the Kingdom. Even with regard to a work permit, one's employment must remain within the scope of activities listed in the permit itself. However, a Thailand "B" visa with an "Employment Prohibited" stamp could still be used as a foundation for a Thai work permit application if all of the other legal criteria are met.
Another common notation that throws some would-be expats off guard is the one which states: "Extension of Stay Not Permitted." This is a truly disconcerting notation because many believe that it is impossible to extend their visa past the initial validity. This is not necessarily the case. A clearer staement would read: "Extension of Stay Not Permitted Without Re-Adjudication." One may extend a Thai business visa, but it is not a matter of right. Instead, an entirely new extension application must be submitted and approved before one will be permitted to remain in lawful status past the visa's expiration. This seems to be intended as a notation to be used internally by Thai government officers employed at either the Royal Thai immigration Police, the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or the Thai Ministry of Labour. Most foreign nationals are happy to learn that these notations usually do not have an adverse impact upon their long term goals.
(Thai Immigration rules and regulations are in a constant state of flux. As a result, extensive research may be needed in order to obtain a visa. If possible, contact a legal professional for more information.)
Tags: Thai Business Visas, Thai Visa, Thai Visas, Thailand Business Visas, Thailand Immigration, Thailand Visa, Travel to Thailand