Hi -

Been in Thailand and working at my current school 3 years. Have valid work permit which they extend every year for one year. Current visa ends 31 March 2005. I am starting at International School next week. They have said once I start to bring all documents in and they will take care of everything just like the other school. But my question is - do I have to leave and reenter again on a new B visa or can I take my time since my passport says that I am ok untill next year. I would perfer to wait and make a trip out of the country later in the year. Thanks for all your help and suggestions.

Well it kind of depends. As when you leave a job and your WP is cancelled (handed in) you're only supposed to have 7 (10?) days left to leave and re-enter, but if your current employer is playing nice and/or if your new employer is on the ball, then it's a distinct possibility you won't have to leave the country.

I've known some people (although this was a while ago) get away with extended Visas (but cancelled work permit), and others that haven't. Probably best to play it properly and not risk getting hit with a massive fine (and maybe worse) when you do leave. Talk to your new employer as if they're a good International School they should be able to help/advise you in regards to this.

But my question is - do I have to leave and reenter again on a new B visa or can I take my time since my passport says that I am ok untill next year.  I would perfer to wait and make a trip out of the country later in the year.  Thanks for all your help and suggestions.

No, don't "wait" if you're starting a new job next week. You may think you have been given blanket permission - via a visa - to remain until 2005 come what may, but it's not as simple as that. Basically, when you leave an old job your 'B' visa expires 7 days later (ie: you get 7 days to apply for an extension). If you don't apply for an extension during this time you are liable for an overstay fine. Your international school should be aware of this, of course, and should escort you to immigration within the next few days to get a new extension.