Hello everyone,

It's sometime since I've used this forum so I would appreciate some simple words of advice. I am at present teaching English as a foreign language in the UK. Please could you explain in simple terms what I need in terms of visas or work permits etc to allow me to teach in Thailand. I have a teaching certificate in the UK and an Master of Arts degree (MA) in Education. My wife is Thai and we may spend more time there in the future and of course I would like to work part-time either privately or in an English school (18years +. I would appreciate basic information.

Thank you,

Clive

You might want to check the Visa section of the forum for the most up-to-date information concerning the specifics of your situation. You maybe eligible for a non-immigrant O visa.

Most teachers get a non-immigrant B visa. If you secure a teaching job before you come to Thailand, the school should send you the necessary paperwork to get the visa while you are in the UK. In practice, however, most people arrive on a tourist visa, then get the paperwork and travel to Laos (or another country) and change the visa. Different Embassies and Consulates have slightly different regulations.

If you are teaching in a 'regular' school, you will need a Teacher's License. Since you are a licensed teacher with an education degree this should be no problem.

In the event you can't get the Teacher's License right away, you will be able to get a waiver from the Teacher's Council of Thailand and the License at a later date.

Best of luck and keep us informed.