Working Remotely From Thailand

[lime12]

Hi guys

Had a look through some posts on here and just wanted to clarify what I'd read. I will soon have had a very successful 6 months with my thai GF living over here in England with me and now we'd like to look into me staying with her in Thailand for another 6 months.

Luckily due to the nature of my work (web developer) I can work remotely anywhere with an internet connection. From what I can see I would have to get a work permit - but I'd continue to pay my tax to the UK government, and in order to get a work permit I'd need to get a non immigrant visa.

Does this sound correct?

Thanks

Lime

[Khun Jean]

Yes.

But if it is only for six months why not just sit behind a computer and "browse the internet".

If you decide to stay after that, setting up a small company or partnership would be a good idea to have legal income in Thailand. But most of the times this involves employees, shareholders, meetings, taxes, vat etc. as you will need to qualify for both a workpermit AND a visa.

[lopburi3]

You can not get a work permit without working for a Thai company so any such work while here would not be lawful. Not to say it can not be done but it should never be considered work.

[lime12]

Thanks for the advice guys, well sounds like there's a slight risk but perhaps I won't go for the work visa - the thing is I'm not sure I'll even stay for 6 months if I end up getting majorly homesick!..

Just another thing, as I've really no idea when I'll be returning I was planning on getting a one way ticket and a tourist visa - do you think the border control will question why I've only got a one way ticket? I noticed when I've been before they're a bit intimidating and ask lots of questions - maybe I just give off a dodgy vibe?!

[Crossy]

Since you're in the UK why not get a non-o from Hull on the basis of visiting your girlfriend, that will net you a years worth of stay 90 days at a time, and if someone comes along with a job (you never know) a work permit can be attached (but the visa isn't free).

With any type of visa a one-way is no problem.

[VBF]

Hi Lime,

Have sent you a PM.

VBF