From my experience it seems that it is impossible to get a work permit in Chonburi without a bribe. Has anyone here successfully received a work permit in Chonburi by just submitting the correct forms without paying under the table?.

Any input would be appreciated.

Not sure but not bothered really as i've had in total 5 1 year permits from them all within 4 - 5 weeks with no bother and no visits.

We got WPs okay for our staff there, and also I know a few teachers (an Indian in one case) that did it with no bribes etc.

Most Lawyers here in Pattaya charge between 25000 and 40000 Bt for a WP. Compare these figures with the Bangkok going rates, and you might get an idea where the money goes, too.

Sunny

If your working for a well established company, generally no problems (and by well established I mean evidence of various tax and social payments, company filings etc).

BOI companies, no problems whatsoever

Small new startups in grey areas - lots of problems - everything goes across the Governor of Chonburi's desk and needs his sign off - he is a stickler for detail and has the reputation of throwing things back at the smallest whim. He is particularly tough on anybody remotely involved in the property business. It is achievable, but tough. Seemingly he has a policy that he will not grant work permits to property developers unless they have a high paid up capital and pay taxes on house sales. That rules out 99% of farang property developers in and around Pattaya for sure. I am aware of applications that have been approved by the staff in the work permit office, only to be thrown out by the governor because he believes them to be false or misleading in some way or another.