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Exploring the WP.3 pre-approval letter for Work Permits in Thailand
19/05/2023
Are you planning to work in Thailand? Navigating the intricacies of work permits can be a daunting task.! This blog post will explore a document often problematic in the work permit application process: the WP.3 pre-approval letter.
Whether you’re a skilled professional seeking employment or an aspiring entrepreneur looking to start a business in the Land of Smiles, understanding the significance of the WP 3 pre-approval letter is essential.
Key points
- The WP.3 pre-approval letter acts as a confirmation from your employer in Thailand, verifying your intention to work for their company.
- A WP.3 letter is a prerequisite for applying for a 90-day business visa abroad. Without it, you often cannot apply for a business visa.
- Regardless of nationality, individuals working in Thailand for the first time must obtain the WP.3 pre-approval letter.
- Certain nationalities are subject to the WP.3 pre-approval letter requirement regardless of how often they have been employed in Thailand.
What is the WP.3 pre-approval letter?
If you’re considering working in Thailand, understanding the necessary steps to obtain a work permit and business visa is essential. One crucial requirement in this process is the WP.3 pre-approval letter, which is important for certain nationalities and individuals working in Thailand for the first time. A WP.3 pre-approval letter is a prerequisite for applying for the 90-day business visa at the Thai embassy abroad.
The WP.3 pre-approval letter is specifically issued to foreign individuals who have not yet arrived in Thailand. The WP.3 pre-approval letter acts as a confirmation from your employer in Thailand, verifying your intention to work for their company. It is an important document in the work permit application process, validating your employment arrangement in the country.
Employers play a vital role in this process as they are responsible for submitting the required documents to the labor department on behalf of the employee.
Once the foreign worker has obtained the WP.3 pre-approval letter, they can apply for the 90-day business visa. This visa allows entry into Thailand and enables them to obtain their work permit. With the work permit, the foreign worker can apply for a one-year business visa extension, ensuring an extended stay and continued business activities in Thailand.
Who needs to apply for a WP.3 pre-approval letter?
In Thailand, specific individuals must obtain a WP.3 pre-approval letter before being eligible to apply for a 90-day business visa at the Thai embassy abroad. The following groups of people fall under this requirement:
First-time Workers in Thailand: Individuals working in Thailand for the first time, regardless of nationality, must obtain the WP.3 pre-approval letter before proceeding with the 90-day business visa application.
Specific Nationalities: Certain nationalities are subject to the WP.3 pre-approval letter requirement regardless of how often they have been employed in Thailand. The list of these nationalities may vary and is determined by Thai immigration regulations. It is advisable to consult with the Thai embassy or consulate in your home country to confirm if your nationality falls under this category.
It’s important to note that the WP.3 pre-approval letter is not required for everyone applying for a work permit in Thailand.
What documents are required to apply for a WP.3 pre-approval letter?
The documents needed for applying for the WP.3 pre-approval letter are:
- Completed WP3 application form
- Copy of the first page of the passport
- Copy of the applicant’s education certificate or determination form
- Copy of occupation or professional license
- Power of attorney made by the employer
- Copy of the employer’s identification card
Required documents from the company include:
- Copy of Thai company registration and a copy of the recent shareholder’s list or copy of the Business Operation of foreigners and documents about money import for foreign juristic person
- Copy of VAT registration
- Copy of employer’s work permit if the employer is a foreigner
- Copy of company license (i.e., factory license, restaurant license, hotel license, tourism license)
- Copy of social security payment, balance sheet and VAT payment
How can Belaws help?
For more information about WP.3 pre-approval letters in Thailand, why not talk to one of our experts now?
This article is for information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
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Frequently asked questions
How can I get a work permit visa for Thailand?
To obtain a work permit visa for Thailand, you need to follow the necessary steps and requirements set by the Thai immigration authorities. One crucial document in the process is the WP.3 pre-approval letter, which confirms your intention to work for an employer in Thailand. This letter is required for certain nationalities and individuals working in Thailand for the first time. It acts as a prerequisite for applying for a 90-day business visa at the Thai embassy abroad.
How can a foreigner get a work permit in Thailand?
To apply for the WP.3 pre-approval letter, your employer in Thailand plays a significant role as they are responsible for submitting the required documents to the labor department on your behalf. The documents needed for the WP.3 pre-approval letter include completed application forms, a copy of your passport, education certificate or determination form, occupation or professional license, power of attorney from your employer, and copies of your employer’s identification card and company registration.
How much does a work permit visa in Thailand cost?
The cost of a work permit visa in Thailand can vary and depends on various factors, such as the type of work you will be doing, the duration of the visa, and any additional fees involved. It’s advisable to consult with the Thai embassy or consulate in your home country or seek professional assistance to get accurate information about the current fees.
Is it easy to get a Thai work permit?
Obtaining a Thai work permit may not be easy for everyone, as the process involves meeting specific requirements and going through various administrative procedures. It is essential to ensure that you meet the criteria and provide all the necessary documentation to increase your chances of success. Seeking guidance from legal professionals or immigration experts, such as Belaws, can help simplify the process and provide you with the necessary assistance and expertise.
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