April 16, 2024
With the rapid development of the economy, Thailand has become an attractive investment destination. Many foreign companies have invested in Thailand and established companies in recent years. Some have completed company registration or are in the process of applying to the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI). However, it might take some time to obtain various permits before a company can start operations. During this period, some companies may send employees abroad for training or internships to ensure they are well-prepared.
According to Thai Law, employers must obtain permission from the Thai government to send employees abroad for internships. The applicant for an overseas internship permit for employees must be either a company’s Thai legal representative or a foreign legal representative who has already obtained a work permit in Thailand.
There are two types of overseas internship applications: those exceeding 45 days and those within 45 days. The Employment Department requires applicants to provide various documents such as an application form for the overseas internship, the company’s shareholder structure, the company’s business license, proof of the employee’s employment, the visa, and the internship contract (which must detail the internship period, time, holidays, benefits, accommodation, air ticket, and medical expenses). Approval can be obtained within two days.
For details on the required documents and the application process, please visit the Employment Department’s official website.
Link : https://www.doe.go.th/prd/assets/upload/files/udonthani_th/2890915f7024e3eaa1bfe02ebbe8b674.pdf.
Additionally, applications for sending employees abroad for internships company’s legal representative must apply in person. If the company legal representative cannot apply in person, a power of attorney must be provided.
In summary, the permit for sending employees abroad for internships is a legal requirement stipulated by the Thai government and must be followed. Some companies may consider sending employees abroad as an internal matter unrelated to the Thai government, but actually, companies need to check whether the Thai government has regulations regarding such matters and thoroughly understand the application process and regulations to avoid future issues. Meanwhile, to protect their interests, employees should also understand the relevant laws and carefully read the internship contract provided by the employer.
