What are the minimum number of hours you need to work to qualify for a work permit?
There is no officially mandated minimum number of working hours required to qualify for a work permit in Thailand. However, in practice, employers typically expect foreign workers to engage in full-time roles to justify the administrative and financial efforts involved in sponsoring a work permit. While some sources suggest a minimum of around 16 hours per week, this is not an official requirement and may vary depending on the employer and the nature of the job.
It's important to note that, although there isn't a set minimum for working hours, there are minimum salary requirements for foreign employees, which vary based on nationality and job type. Employers must also meet certain conditions, such as having a specified amount of registered capital and employing a minimum number of Thai staff, to be eligible to hire foreign workers. Therefore, while part-time work is not explicitly prohibited, securing a work permit for such positions can be challenging due to these associated requirements.
If you're considering part-time employment in Thailand, it's advisable to consult with potential employers or legal experts to understand the feasibility and legal implications of obtaining a work permit for such roles.