All the info referring to work permits I have read so far seems to refer to someone working for a company based in or having an office in Thailand. Would someone please advise on following scenario:

• Freelance Consultant operating from UK,

• engaged by Korean company–head office in South Korea - trading foodstuffs, mainly Europe to South Korea

• Any remuneration/recompense paid in UK

• Whilst on sabbatical in Thailand requested by Korean company to source potential exporters of foodstuffs to South Korea, any interesting contacts to be followed up by company representative from Korea.

Would this

a) Constitute working illegally in Thailand without work permit

If so, is it possible to obtain work permit even though company does not have an office in Thailand.

Any advice would be appreciated.

There is no practical provison within the Thai system to handle your situation. From a practical perspective, so long as you do not overstay whatever entry permit you have, you may operate as described with no repercussions.

Thailand has a functioning legal system, with requirements for evidence of a crime. In order for you to get caught up in this system, there has to be physical or testimonial evidence that you have committed a crime. Using a telephone, a computer, a FAX machine, or visiting the office of a company in Thailand are not actions that lend themselves to being used as evidence of criminal conduct.

Have fun!

Good luck,

Indo-Siam

Thanks for that Indo-Siam