Hi all,

I used to run a Thai-registered business, then stopped work about 4 years ago, returned the work permit and have been on a retirement visa since. I transferred the company to my wife (Thai national) and left the company, which also stopped trading but still exists.

Although life is easier now I am pretty bored and am considering returning to work as an employee in the company and would like to know how to go about it the right way.

Obviously I will need to re-apply for a work permit, but what other steps must I take? Am I allowed to work on a retirement visa or do I need to go back to a business visa and all the paperwork that involves?

Competent advice appreciated.

The best way would be to change your extension to one for marriage to a Thai. Then get your work permit.

You would need to show 40,000 baht income to get this extension. This can be proven by a letter from your embassy/consulate. The income can be yours, your wifes or a combination of both. Proof can be tax payments.

See page 8 case 7.17 of police order for requrements.

Link: http://www.immigration.go.th/nov2004/2notice/rtp606EN.pdf

Edited November 25, 200817 yr by ubonjoe

Working on a retirement visa is allowed by some labour offices and immigration offices, others don't allow it and want you to do an extension based on employment. So it will realy depend on your local labour office ands you should contact them.

Legal firm Sunbelt reported it can be done in Bangkok.

Working on a retirement visa is allowed by some labour offices and immigration offices, others don't allow it and want you to do an extension based on employment. So it will realy depend on your local labour office ands you should contact them.

Legal firm Sunbelt reported it can be done in Bangkok.

Thanks for the feedback. I live in Chiang Mai if that makes any difference.

I saw a very recent post from someone, telling his WP on a retirement visa was denied in Chiang Mai. But better call the labour office first.

Working on a retirement visa is allowed by some labour offices and immigration offices, others don't allow it and want you to do an extension based on employment. So it will realy depend on your local labour office ands you should contact them.

Legal firm Sunbelt reported it can be done in Bangkok.

Thanks for the feedback. I live in Chiang Mai if that makes any difference.

Does anyone know if a Thai limited company can be converted to a sole proprietorship, and can the sole proprietor then employ a foreigner who has a work permit etc? Are there any restrictions/major hurdles?

Also, does this form of business make the paperwork easier?

Thanks in advance