Q1354. What are the penalties for working in Thailand without a Work Permit?

Answered by the NYC Visa & Translation team

Working without a Work Permit is an offence under the Foreigners' Working Management Act, and both the worker and the employer face legal consequences: the worker may be fined, have their stay permit revoked, be deported, and face future entry restrictions; the employer may be fined per foreign worker hired without a permit. Additional points: (1) the legal definition of 'work' is broad, covering duties performed with or without pay, so some business-meeting activities can fall within scope; (2) tourist visas and visa exemptions do not authorise work; (3) certain activities, such as short-term conference attendance, may have their own lawful channels — check with the Department of Employment first; (4) LTR/SMART holders have their own permit mechanisms. Recommendation: always put the correct paperwork in place before starting work. This is general guidance; requirements and fees change — always verify with the district office, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Thai Immigration, or the Department of Employment before proceeding.