Working On My Own In Thailand - Visas? Work Permit?

[pepi2005]

Hello,

I'm currently living in the EU, 40yo, own a small condo in Thailand (rented: 10k THB/month) and am pondering over working in Thailand (consulting). I'd really have to start from scratch, so I expect zero to just very small business during the first 1-3 years.

The question is: which kindof visa would I have to apply for to be able to stay there without too much hassle, and which kind of work permit would I have to apply for in order to be allowed to open a small burau or office? I also have a banking account in TH with about 500k THB. Could be increased if necessary to ease the visa situation.

Do I have to expect problems (visa-wise or in regards of work permit or tax) if I don't make enough cash during the first years?

thanks for any hint!

[lopburi3]

Would really suggest you consult a legal firm as there are options to set up business but it will not be neat and clean if you can not make money for an extended period I am afraid.

You might want to consider an ED visa and study of Thai for first year or so. Believe that would be highly beneficial to your future plans and give you the time/opportunity to check the ground before you make any great investment. The money in bank does not provide visa.

[pepi2005]

thanks for your feedback!

What are the rules for an ED visa - where's the best place to find accurate information about it online?

I'd also be interested in how much money I have to make in order to avoid visa trouble. Which visa would be the way to go if I'd go without the ED visa?

The money in bank does not provide visa.

that's strange because I heard (well, 'rumours' 8-)) that a certain amount of money on the bank and/or ownership of a condo is the requirement for certain types of longstay visas. But maybe that's already outdated or so?

thanks,

pepi

[lopburi3]

Condo ownership does not secure a visa - there was an investment visa that you could use a condo for but that phased out several years ago so only those grandfathered have that option.

Unless you are talking 40 million baht or more do not believe there are invertments options now.

If you are willing to buy a vanity card for 1.5 million there is a visa program currently attached to that which allows continuous 90 day stays. Google Thai elite card.

Accurate information on anything visa related is probably best found here. There is an advertiser who runs a school and posts on ED visas. You would have to be a full time student (but that does not mean classes every day) and attend the school.

Making money is secondary to meeting the requirements for a work permit. What low income or profits do effect is your ability to extend your stay one year at a time.