Renew A Work Permit in Thailand
If you’re already working in Thailand and hold a valid work permit, you’re probably wondering how to renew your work permit on time to avoid any legal issues. The renewal process may seem complicated at first, but with the right preparation it can be straightforward. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the simplest way to renew your work permit in Thailand, what documents you’ll need, and how to avoid common delays.
Renewing A Work Permit In Thailand
Renewing your work permit in Thailand is a process you can handle smoothly if you’re prepared. The key is to start early, ideally 30 days before your current permit expires, to avoid fines or complications. Here’s the simplest way to get it done:
- Prepare your documents
- Visit the Department of Employment – Submit your renewal application at the local Employment Office in the province where your company is registered.
- Pay the renewal fee – The fee depends on the renewal period (commonly 1 year, but can vary).
- Wait for processing – Renewals usually take around 7–10 business days, though it can be faster if all documents are complete.
- Collect your renewed work permit – Once approved, you’ll be notified to pick it up. Your new validity will match the period allowed by your visa.
Pro tip: Always ensure your Non-B visa is valid first. As your work permit can only be renewed if your visa is active.
Document Requirements For Work Permit Renewals
Personal Documents (from the employee):
- Original passport
- Original work permit
- Medical certificate (covering six diseases)
- Proof of tax payment (PND 90 or PND 91) – if you’ve worked for a full year
- Employment contract (Form WP 46)
Company Documents (from your employer):
- Copy of the business license
- Updated DBD Company Registration (issued within 6 months)
- List of shareholders (Form Bor Jor 5)
- Copy of the company director’s ID card – If the director is a foreigner, include their passport and work permit
- PND 1 form showing employment of Thai nationals
- Social Security payment (SSO) records for Thai employees
Additional Requirements:
- Minimum of 4 office/shop photos (interior and exterior)
- Office location map
Non-O Marriage Visa holders must provide:
- Marriage Certificate
- Thai spouse’s National ID card
- For marriages over one year, the Kor Ror 2 document from your local district office.
Non-O Parent Visa holders must provide:
- Child’s birth certificate
- Child’s house registration document
If you’re changing jobs or starting your own company in Thailand, you can’t simply “renew” your old work permit. Instead, the process involves canceling your existing permit and then applying for a new one under your new employer (or your own company if you’ve registered one). Here’s how it works:
- Cancel your current work permit – Your old employer must notify the Department of Employment and return your work permit. This should be done promptly, as overstaying without a valid permit can lead to penalties.
- Update your visa – You’ll need a valid Non-B visa that corresponds with your new employment or company setup. In some cases, you may need to apply for a new visa before submitting your work permit application.
- Prepare the required documents
- New employment contract (or company registration papers if it’s your own business)
- Updated company documents (registration certificate, shareholder list, VAT certificate, etc.)
- Passport with valid Non-B visa
- Passport photos
- Submit your new application – File the application at the Employment Office where your new company is registered. Once approved, you’ll be issued a new work permit tied to your new employer or company.
While this process is slightly more complex than a standard renewal, it’s absolutely possible to transition smoothly with the right documentation in place.
The work permit renewal process typically takes 1 to 2 weeks from the time of submission. We recommend preparing all your documents in advance to avoid any delays.
Full payment is required upfront, and you will sign an agreement before the renewal process starts.
If you don’t have a work permit yet and want to legally work in Thailand, TMT Visa Service offers an all-in-one solution. From setting up a Thai company (if you plan to employ yourself), to applying for a Non-B visa, and finally securing your work permit, our team helps streamline the entire process. Whether you’re starting your own business or joining an existing employer, we’ll make sure you’re fully compliant with Thai regulations from the start.
📞 Ready to renew your work permit?
Get in touch with TMT Visa today and let us handle the details for you!