Changing Job/work Permit& Immigration Rules

[james777]

Do I have to leave Thailand if change my job, even if I have a currently valid and extended Non Immigrant B visa?

My new employer's guy in charge just told me today that I will have to do a new

visa run.

Not too happy about that news, as I only just scraped in before the recent price-hike. I am only 3 months or so into my fully paid, extended 12 month visa.

I know I have to change the details with the Labor Office for the work permit, but I am really surpised about this news. Is it correct?

Thanks in advance.

[dr_Pat_Pong]

As soon as you change employers, your extension, and indeed, your visa dies.

[webfact]

Fine, but what happens if someone has obtained a visa for another reasons rather than to work? Note: if you have kids (Thai nationals) you are eligible for NON-O. U are allowed legally to work with a NON-O and IMHO this visa is still good even if someone changes the employer. Am I wrong?

Cheers,

WebFact

[dr_Pat_Pong]

Then you are fine. But that WP died.

[kenkannif]

Webfact,

You're not allowed to work on a Non-imm O unless you have a WP!

So yes you're wrong!

If you're applying for a new job it is possible (if you're new employer has their act together) to avoid getting a new Visa, but it rarely happens. It would also help if you're working in the same area as you were before.

If you've lost your WP then you haven't got a 12 month visa anymore, you have to leave within 7 days and start again.