Non-B Visas in Thailand: A Complete Guide to Available Categories
Non-b visas are issued by Thailand to foreign nationals who wish to enter the country for business, employment, or other professional purposes. Thailand’s official e-Visa system currently lists several non-b visa categories, each created for a specific activity or role.
Understanding the structure of non-b visas in Thailand is essential before applying, as each category has clearly defined eligibility requirements and permitted activities.
Non-B Visas for Employment and Professional Roles
One of the most common uses of non-b visas is for employment and professional work in Thailand. These visa categories apply to foreigners who will legally work or provide professional services in the country.
1. Non-B Visas for Employment
-
Intended for foreign nationals entering Thailand for employment
-
Employment must be with a Thai-based organization
-
Commonly used as the initial visa before applying for a work permit
2. Non-B Visas for Employment (BOI)
-
For foreigners working with companies promoted by Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI)
-
Applications follow BOI-specific procedures
3. Non-B Visas for Academic Staff and Teachers in Thailand
-
Applies to foreign teachers and academic staff
-
Employment must be with an educational institution in Thailand
4. Non-B Visas for Academic Staff and Teachers (BOI)
-
Covers academic professionals working under BOI-supported institutions or programs
Non-B Visas for Business Visits and Commercial Activities
Thailand also offers non-b visas for short-term and frequent business-related activities that do not involve direct employment. These visas do not require work permit but only allow stays for up to 3 months at a time.
5. Non-B Visas for Business Visits
-
Designed for individuals entering Thailand for business purposes
-
Includes activities such as meetings, negotiations, and corporate engagements
6. Non-B Visas for Frequent Business Visits (3 Years)
-
Intended for individuals who need to travel to Thailand frequently
-
Supports ongoing business activities over a longer period
7. Non-B Visas for Business Visits (BOI)
-
For business visitors engaging with BOI-promoted companies or investment projects
Specialized Non-B Visas in Thailand
In addition to employment and business travel, Thailand provides specialized non-b visas for specific professional, cultural, and program-based activities.
8. Non-B Visas for Internships (Non-Curricular)
-
Applies to foreign nationals participating in non-curricular internships
-
Internships must not be part of a formal academic curriculum
9. Non-B Visas for Sport-Related Activities
-
For foreign trainers, coaches, and instructors
-
Activities must be sports-related
10. Non-B Visas for Sports Personnel
-
Designated for sports personnel
-
Employment or engagement must be under the Sports Authority of Thailand
11. Non-B Visas under the Working Holiday Scheme (New Zealand)
-
Available to New Zealand passport holders
-
Applicants must currently reside in New Zealand
12. Non-B Visas for Work and Holiday (Australia)
-
Available to Australian passport holders
-
Applicants must currently reside in Australia
13. Non-B Visas under TECO
-
Applies to specific cases
-
Processed under the Thailand Economic and Cultural Office (TECO)
For full list of current visas visit https://www.thaievisa.go.th/visa/business-investor-visa
