country manual for workers on temporary contractual employment to thailand · 2017-07-25 ·...

March 2014

COUNTRY MANUAL FOR WORKERS ON

TEMPORARY CONTRACTUAL EMPLOYMENT

TO

THAILAND

This document can also be used as Pre-Departure

Information Manual

Country Manual - Thailand

Page 1 of 53

CONTENTS

PART – I ................................................................................................................................................ 4

GENERAL INFORMATION FOR OVERSEAS MIGRANTS .......................................................... 4

1. Definition ........................................................................................................................................ 4

2. The Present Situation .................................................................................................................. 4

3. The Emigration Act ....................................................................................................................... 4

4. Service Charge ............................................................................................................................. 4

5. Emigration Check Required (ECR) Category .......................................................................... 4

6. Countries with ECR status .......................................................................................................... 4

7. List of persons / categories of workers for whom Emigration Check is not required ......... 5

8. Guidelines for Emigration Clearance ........................................................................................ 6

8.1. Procedure for Emigration Clearance ................................................................................. 6

9. Applying for Emigration Clearance ............................................................................................ 6

9.1. Documents required for Emigration Clearance: Semi-Skilled Workers ....................... 6

9.2. Documents required for Emigration Clearance: Unskilled Workers ............................. 6

9.3. Documents required for Emigration Clearance (Through Project Exporter) ............... 7

10. Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY) ............................................................................... 7

10.1. Salient features of PBBY w.e.f. 1/04/2008 ................................................................... 7

10.2. Insurance Companies providing PBBY ......................................................................... 8

10.3. Claim Procedure under PBBY ........................................................................................ 9

10.4. Verification of the Genuineness of Visa / Employment Documents ......................... 9

11. Indian Nationals working with ‘Visit / Tourist visa’ ............................................................... 9

12. Thai Work Permit .................................................................................................................... 10

13. Employment Contract ............................................................................................................ 10

13.1. Essential Terms for a Contract ..................................................................................... 11

13.2. Obtaining copy of the contract while in India ............................................................. 11

13.3. Breach of Employment Contract .................................................................................. 11

14. Important Documents ............................................................................................................ 12

15. Check before departure ......................................................................................................... 12

16. In the country of your employment ...................................................................................... 12

17. Customs Formalities .............................................................................................................. 12

18. Precautions ............................................................................................................................. 13

19. Important Contacts ................................................................................................................. 13

20. List of Offices of Protector of Emigrants in India ............................................................... 14

21. Information available on the website of MOIA ................................................................... 15


Page 2 of 53

PART – II ............................................................................................................................................. 16

COUNTRY MANUAL – KINGDOM OF THAILAND ...................................................................... 16

1. Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 16

2. Time Zone ................................................................................................................................... 16

3. Location & Size ........................................................................................................................... 16

4. Administrative Divisions ............................................................................................................ 16

5. Major Cities ................................................................................................................................. 17

6. Population .................................................................................................................................... 17

7. Age Composition ........................................................................................................................ 17

8. Ethnic Composition .................................................................................................................... 17

9. Languages ................................................................................................................................... 18

10. Climate ..................................................................................................................................... 18

11. Natural Resources ................................................................................................................. 18

12. History ...................................................................................................................................... 19

13. Government ............................................................................................................................. 19

14. Political Setup ......................................................................................................................... 19

14.1. The King and Queen ...................................................................................................... 20

15. Economy .................................................................................................................................. 20

16. Relations with India ................................................................................................................ 21

16.1. Indo-Thai Relations ........................................................................................................ 21

16.2. Economic Cooperation .................................................................................................. 22

16.3. Framework Agreement for Establishing Free Trade Area ....................................... 23

17. Labour Market ......................................................................................................................... 23

18. Law of Thailand ...................................................................................................................... 24

19. Criminal Laws ......................................................................................................................... 24

19.1. Application of Criminal Law .......................................................................................... 25

19.2. Common pre-cautions while in Thailand .................................................................... 25

20. Labor Law ................................................................................................................................ 25

20.1. Minimum Wages ............................................................................................................. 27

21. Religion .................................................................................................................................... 28

22. Religious Freedom ................................................................................................................. 28

23. Traditional Values ................................................................................................................... 29

24. Social Life in Thailand ........................................................................................................... 30

25. Socio-Cultural Customs ......................................................................................................... 30

26. Expatriate Life Style in Thailand .......................................................................................... 32


Page 3 of 53

26.1. Meeting & Greeting: ....................................................................................................... 32

26.2. Useful Phrases ............................................................................................................... 33

26.3. Hands and Feet Conduct: ............................................................................................. 34

26.4. Titles / Forms of Address: ............................................................................................. 34

26.5. Gift Giving Etiquette: ...................................................................................................... 35

26.6. Dress Code: .................................................................................................................... 35

26.7. Food: ................................................................................................................................ 36

26.8. Dining Etiquette: ............................................................................................................. 36

26.9. Social Activities ............................................................................................................... 37

27. Entry in Thailand ..................................................................................................................... 37

27.1. Thai Immigration Requirements: .................................................................................. 38

27.2. List of 24 Immigration Checkpoints for Visa-On-Arrival: .......................................... 38

27.3. Penalties for Work Permit Violations ........................................................................... 39

28. Living Conditions .................................................................................................................... 39

29. Accommodation ...................................................................................................................... 40

30. Working Condition .................................................................................................................. 40

31. Unionization............................................................................................................................. 41

32. Transportation - Commuting in Thailand ............................................................................ 42

33. Educational Facilities ............................................................................................................. 44

34. Medical Facilities .................................................................................................................... 44

35. Public Holidays ....................................................................................................................... 45

36. Communication Network ....................................................................................................... 47

37. Connectivity to India ............................................................................................................... 49

37.1. Airports: ............................................................................................................................ 49

37.2. Highways: ........................................................................................................................ 49

38. Do’s and Don’ts ...................................................................................................................... 49

38.1. Do’s ................................................................................................................................... 49

38.2. Don’ts ............................................................................................................................... 50

39. Indian Embassy Location: ..................................................................................................... 51

39.1. Timings: ........................................................................................................................... 51

39.2. Passport Related Services: .......................................................................................... 51

39.3. Other Passport Services Available .............................................................................. 53


Page 4 of 53

PART – I

GENERAL INFORMATION FOR OVERSEAS MIGRANTS

1. Definition

Emigration, in this context, means the departure of any person from India with a view to taking up

any employment (whether or not under an agreement or other arrangements to take up such

employment, with or without the assistance of a registered Recruiting Agent or employer) in any

country or place outside India.

2. The Present Situation

Every year thousands of Indians emigrate in search of job. The effect of economic liberalization in

India is visible on labor migrants too. One of the striking features of labor migration from India is that

more than 90 per cent of the total outflow is to the Middle East.

3. The Emigration Act

The Emigration Act, 1983, seeks to safeguard the interests and ensure the welfare of emigrants.

Only the recruiting agents registered with the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs are eligible as per

the Act to conduct the business of recruitment for overseas employment and they are required to

obtain proper Registration Certificates (RC) from the Protector General of Emigrants. The Ministry of

Overseas Indian Affairs, administers the Emigration Act through the 10 (ten) offices of Protector of

Emigrants (POEs). These offices are located at Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Chandigarh,

Cochin, Thiruvananthapuram, Hyderabad, Jaipur, and Rae Bareli.

4. Service Charge

No recruiting agent shall collect from the worker the service charges more than the equivalent of

his wages for forty-five days as offered under the employment contract, subject to a maximum of

twenty thousand rupees, in respect of the services provided and shall issue a receipt to that worker

for the amount collected in this regard.

5. Emigration Check Required (ECR) Category

Categories of persons, whose passports have been endorsed as “Emigrant Check Required”

(ECR), if intending to travel to an ECR country (Listed below) for employment purposes, are required

to obtain emigration from any of the offices of the Protector of Emigrants (POEs) either directly, or

through the recruitment agents.

6. Countries with ECR status

Following is the list of countries for which Emigration Clearance is required before emigrating –

1) Afghanistan

2) Bahrain

3) Indonesia


Page 5 of 53

4) Iraq

5) Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

6) Kuwait

7) Jordan

8) Lebanon

9) Libya

10) Malaysia

11) Oman

12) Qatar

13) Sudan

14) Syria

15) Thailand

16) United Arab Emirates

17) Yemen

7. List of persons / categories of workers for whom Emigration Check is not required

1) All holders of diplomatic / official passports

2) All gazetted government servants

3) All income-tax payers in their individual capacity.

4) All professional degree holders, such as Doctors holding MBBS degrees or Degrees in

Ayurveda or Homeopathy; Accredited journalists; Chartered Accountants; Lecturers;

Teachers; Scientists; Advocates etc.

5) Spouses and dependent children of category of persons listed from (2) to (4)

6) Persons holding class 10 qualification or higher degrees.

7) Seamen who are in possession of CDC or Sea Cadets, Desk Cadets (i)who have passed

final examination of three years B.(Sc.) Nautical Sciences Courses at T S Chankya,

Mumbai; and (ii) who have undergone three months pre-sea training at any of the

government approved Training Institutes such as T S Chankya, T S Rehman, T S Jawahar,

MTI (SCI) and NIPM, Chennai after production of identity cards issued by the Shipping

Master, Mumbai/ Kolkata/ Chennai.

8) Persons holding permanent immigration visas, such as the visas of UK, USA and Australia.

9) Persons possessing two years’ diploma from any institute recognized by the National

Council for Vocational Training (NCVT) or State Council of Vocational Training (SCVT) or

persons holding three years’ diploma/ equivalent degree from institutions like polytechnics

recognized by Central/ State Governments.

10) Nurses possessing qualifications recognized under the Indian Nursing Council Act, 1947.

11) All persons above the age of 50 years.

12) All persons who have been staying abroad for more than three years (the period of three

years could be either in one stretch or broken) and spouses.

13) Children below 18 years of age.


Page 6 of 53

8. Guidelines for Emigration Clearance

The procedure for emigration clearance has been simplified. Emigration clearance to

individuals/groups is granted on the same day on which the application is made at any of the offices

of the Protector of Emigrants (POE).

8.1. Procedure for Emigration Clearance

1) Emigration clearance will be made on the passport when the individual approaches either

directly or through a registered Recruiting Agent or through the employer concerned or

through Project Exporter.

2) No emigration clearance shall be granted for Indian nationals for any Foreign Employer

placed in ‘Prior Approval Category’ (PAC)

9. Applying for Emigration Clearance

The application for emigration clearance should be made in the prescribed form with prescribed

particulars by the applicant directly or through a Recruiting Agent or through the employer concerned

or through Project Exporter to the POE.

9.1. Documents required for Emigration Clearance: Semi-Skilled Workers

Semi-skilled individuals who seek emigration clearance directly from the Protectors of

Emigrants (and not through Recruiting Agents) are required to produce the following documents in

original for scrutiny and return:

1) Passport valid for a minimum period of six months with valid visa.

2) Employment contract from foreign employer duly attested by the Indian Mission.

3) Challan towards deposit of prescribed fee.

4) Valid Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY) Policy

9.2. Documents required for Emigration Clearance: Unskilled Workers

Unskilled workers and women (not below 30 years of age) seeking employment abroad as

housemaids/ domestic workers shall continue to furnish (in original) the following documents at the

time of obtaining emigration clearance.

1) Passport valid for a minimum period of 2 years with valid Visa.

2) Work agreement from the foreign employer duly attested by the Indian Mission and signed

by employer and employee or Permission letter from the concerned Indian Mission/ Post

mentioned below:

Embassy of India – Bangkok, Kingdom of Thailand

46, Prasarnmitr, Sukhumvit, Soi 23, Bangkok 10110

Telephone: +66-02-2580300-5

Fax: +66-02-2584627 / 2621740

Email Contacts:

Embassy : [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


Page 7 of 53

Economic & Commercial Wing : [email protected]

Counsular Services : [email protected]

Indian Cultural Center : [email protected]

Consulate of India – Chiang Mai, Kingdom of Thailand

33/1, Thung Hotel Road, Wat Kate

Muang, Chiang Mai 50000

Telephone: +66-(0)-53-243066

Fax: +66-(0)-53-247879

Email: [email protected]

3) Challan towards deposit of prescribed fee.

4) Valid Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY) Policy.

9.3. Documents required for Emigration Clearance (Through Project

Exporter)

1) Valid Passport (valid for at least 2 years)

2) Valid visa in English language

3) Permit issued by Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs, with effective date of validity.

4) Valid Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY) Policy.

The Protector of Emigrants (POE) shall, after satisfying the accuracy of the particulars

mentioned in the application and in the other documents submitted along the application, grants

emigration clearance in the prescribed manner and form. In case there is any deficiency, the POE

shall intimate the same by order in writing to the applicant or, as the case may be, the Recruiting

Agent or Employer or Project Exporter, through whom the applications have been made about the

deficiencies and require him to make good such deficiencies within such time as may be specified in

the order or reject the application.

10. Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY)

The Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana (PBBY) is a compulsory Insurance policy scheme for all

emigrant workers going abroad for temporary / contractual employment.

10.1. Salient features of PBBY w.e.f. 1/04/2008

The Insurance policy shall be valid for a minimum period of two years.

An insurance cover of a minimum sum of Rs.10,00,000/- (Rupees Ten Lakhs) payable to

the nominee/ legal heir in the event of death or permanent disability of any Indian emigrant

who goes abroad for employment purpose after obtaining emigration clearance from

concerned Protector of Emigrants (POE).

In case of death, besides the cost of transporting the dead body, the cost incurred on

economy class return airfare of one attendant shall also be reimbursed by the Insurance

Company. The claim for reimbursement shall be filed with the Insurance Company within

ninety days of completion of journey.






Page 8 of 53

In the event of death or permanent disability due to any accident/physical injury sustained

while in employment abroad, the Insurance Company shall reimburse the sum assured

even after expiry of the insurance policy provided the accident occurred during currency of

the insurance cover and claim in this regard is filed within 12 calendar months from the date

of the accident.

If the emigrant worker is not received by the employer or if there is any substantive change

in the job/Employment Contract/Agreement to the disadvantage of the insured person, or if

the employment is prematurely terminated within the period of employment for no fault of

the emigrant, the Insurance Company shall reimburse one-way Economy Class airfare,

provided the grounds for repatriation are certified by the concerned Indian Mission/Post and

the Air-tickets are submitted in original.

A medical insurance cover of a minimum of Rs.75,000/- only in case of hospitalization of

the insured worker in an emergency on grounds of accidental injuries and/or

sickness/ailments/diseases occurring during the period of Insurance whether in India or in

the country of his employment.

The Insurance Company shall either provide cash-less hospitalization and/or reimburse the

actual medical expenses in above eventuality, provided the medical treatment is in India.

Hospitalization cover of Rs.50,000/- per annum for the family of the emigrant worker in India

consisting of spouse and two dependent children up to twenty one years of age in the event

of death or permanent disability of the insured person.

In case of falling sick or declared medically unfit to commence or continue or resume

working and the service contract is terminated by the Foreign Employer within the first 12

months of taking the insurance cover, the actual one-way Economy Class airfare shall be

reimbursed by the Insurance company provided the grounds for repatriation are certified by

the concerned Indian Mission/Post and the Air-tickets are submitted in original.

In case the repatriation is arranged by the Indian Mission/Post, the Insurance Company

shall reimburse the actual expenses to the concerned Indian Mission/Post.

Maternity benefits to women emigrants, subject to a minimum cover of Rs.25,000/-. In case

of medical treatment in the country of employment, the maternity benefits would be

provided only if the requisite documents are certified by the concerned Indian Mission/Post.

The re-imbursement shall be restricted to actuals.

A cover of Rs.30,000/- for legal expenses incurred by the emigrant in any litigation relating

to his/her employment, provided the necessity of filing such case is certified by the

appropriate Ministry of that country. The actual expenses incurred will be certified by the

concerned Indian Mission/Post.

Actual premiums charged for PBBY policy periods of 2 and 3 years are Rs.275 and Rs.375;

plus applicable service tax respectively.

10.2. Insurance Companies providing PBBY

The PBBY policy is available from the following General Insurance Companies –

1) Oriental Insurance Company Ltd.


Page 9 of 53

2) United India Insurance Company Ltd.

3) National Insurance Company Ltd.

4) ICICI Lombard

5) Star Health & Allied Insurance Co. Ltd.

6) IFFCO Tokyo

7) Bajaj Allianz General Insurance Co. Ltd.

8) Reliance General Insurance Co. Ltd.

10.3. Claim Procedure under PBBY

Insured worker is supposed to have the copy of PBBY insurance policy with him/her. Name

of the nominee is so mentioned on the policy, in view of the eventuality of death of insured.

In the event of claim, insured worker/ claimant have to lodge a claim under the policy, with

the respective insurance company’s office wherefrom the policy was issued, if not otherwise

specifically provided by the insurance company otherwise. While doing so, claimant has to

indicate the policy number and details of accident. In the event of death, nominee has to

lodge the claim.

After intimation of reported claim, insurance company intimates the insured/ claimant the

details of documents required to settle the claim. After processing such requisite

documents, claim amount is paid to the insured worker/ claimant, as the case may be.

10.4. Verification of the Genuineness of Visa / Employment Documents

The documents may be referred to the Embassy of India (for verification by POE) in the

destination country, if necessary, with full particulars of the sponsor company (Name, Address,

Telephone and Fax No.), which issued the visa, along with Passport particulars.

11. Indian Nationals working with ‘Visit / Tourist visa’

When you visit Thailand for the purpose of leisure, sight-seeing and persona enlightenment,

you are a tourist. A tourist is not allowed to work or conduct business in Thailand. With a visit or tourist

visa you can stay in Thailand for a period of 15 or 30 days while doing her own explorations and

excursions in the kingdom.

Visit or Tourist Visa is different from the Employment or Work Visa, and it is not covered by the

labor laws of Thailand. Thus, the holder of visit visa do not have right to work in Thailand. Some

employers may be bringing people into Thailand on ‘Visit or Tourist Visa’ to meet their urgent

manpower requirements for short-term work. Under the appropriate Laws, employers are not

permitted to bring workers on visit or tourist visa.

Foreigners entering Thailand are not permitted to work, regardless of their type of visa, unless

they are granted a work permit. Those who intend to work in Thailand must hold the correct type of

visa to be eligible to apply for a work permit.


Page 10 of 53

12. Thai Work Permit

To legally work in Thailand, you must apply for a work permit. Work permit is a legal document

that states a foreigner’s position, current occupation, or job description and the Thai company he or

she is working with. It also serves as a license to perform a job or an occupation allowed for

foreigners inside Thailand.

To secure a work permit in Thailand, a foreigner needs an initial visa, which is a non-immigrant

visa. The non-immigrant visa must be obtained before entering Thailand. Once the foreigner has a

non-immigrant visa, s/he may begin to process the work permit. The work permit process would take

7 business days to accomplish. Work permit application is processed in the Ministry of Labor office.

A foreigner is eligible to apply for a work permit as long as s/he has a non-immigrant visa or a

resident visa, has an available employer who will provide documents for work permit, and the

occupation he will perform is not prohibited to foreigners.

The applicant has to submit the following documents:

2 inches photo

medical certificate

original passport

letter of employment

certificate of degree

address in Thailand

The employer has to provide the following:

company/employer certificate and objectives

list of shareholders

application for VAT

withholding tax of the company

financial statement

photocopy of the director’s passport and work permit with signature affixed

office map

letter of employment stating position and salary of applicant

employment agreement

Once granted, the foreigner has to bring the work permit all the time especially at the work

place and during working hours. Please note that the foreigner can only perform the job stated in the

work permit and on the specific employer.

(Source: http://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand/work-permit-rules.php)

13. Employment Contract

Indian workers are advised to obtain written contract duly signed by the sponsor/ employer

company before their arrival in the destination country.


Page 11 of 53

An employment contract applies to both full-time and fixed-term employees because normally

full-time employees tend to have contracts.

Thai law does say that a contract can be oral or in writing. But ideally it needs to be in writing.

Basically there are two levels of breach under the Thai labor protection law, one being grave

misconduct and the other incompetence or failure to perform duties.

13.1. Essential Terms for a Contract

The contract should contain all important terms of employment as per 15(2) of Emigration

Rules.

1) Period employment/ place of employment.

2) Wages and other conditions of service;

3) Free food or food allowance provision;

4) Free accommodation;

5) Provision in regard to disposal, or transportation to India, of dead body of the Emigrant;

6) Working hours, overtime allowance, other working conditions, leave and social security

benefits as per local labor laws;

7) To and fro air passage at the employers’ cost; and

8) Mode of settlement of disputes;

9) Medical facilities

13.2. Obtaining copy of the contract while in India

As per the instructions of the Government of India, recruitment body is expected to provide a

copy of employment contract to each worker before his / her departure. To safeguard his / her own

interest, an individual worker has to demand from the recruitment agent a copy of the contract duly

signed by employer before departure. Complaints may be lodged against defaulting agencies with the

nearest Protector of Emigrants or the Protector General of Emigrants.

13.3. Breach of Employment Contract

As per Thai Labor Protection Law, there are two levels of employment breach under, one being

grave misconduct and the other incompetence or failure to perform duties.

Exploring the effects and consequences of a breach of contract means looking at all of the

relevant laws and regulations related to the labor law. The main piece of legislation is the Labor

Protection Act B.E 2541 (1998) and the binding provision is in the civil and commercial code.

The law says that one warning letter is sufficient, though many people believe three letters are

needed. However, sometimes it is the rule of the company that three letters are required. But despite

the breach, and notwithstanding that a warning letter is issued, severance pay must be paid to the

employee after the termination.

According to Section 118 of the Labor Protection Act, severance pay is payable even if the

employee is terminated following a failure to carry out duties. This applies to lesser types of breaches

and not major ones.


Page 12 of 53

To avoid conflict and labor disputes, the terms of an employment contract should be reviewed

on an annual basis to ensure that they accurately reflect the employee’s job and position within the

company. Detailed work rules and conditions of employment should be provided to the employees

and detailed complaints and disciplinary procedures should be set out in writing and provided to the

employee.

14. Important Documents

Copies of the following documents should be kept by the family members of the worker–

1) Employment contract,

2) Passport,

3) Visa,

4) Certificates of educational qualification and

5) OWRC Helpline Number: 1800 11 3090

15. Check before departure

Ensure you have a valid passport at least for two years. A valid Visa must be either

stamped on or accompany your passport. Always keep a photocopy of your passport and

visa.

You must possess a copy of the Employment Contract signed by you and your foreign

employer duly attested by the registered recruiting agent.

Insist on a copy of Employment Contract in English duly authenticated by the recruiting

agent.

Open a Savings Bank N.R.E. Account in one of the Banks in India to enable you to send

your remittances from abroad.

Get familiar with local labor laws, working and living conditions of the country of

employment. Keep complete address of the Indian Embassy there, with you.

16. In the country of your employment

Obtain a Resident Permit, or Identity Card, or Labour Card (as applicable) as early as

possible after arrival in Thailand.

DO NOT part with your passport and copy of employment contract signed by you.

DO NOT sign any other employment contract or any blank paper.

DO NOT strike work or resort to agitations. These are illegal under Thailand’s labor laws.

You could be arrested, imprisoned and also deported.

AVOID all contacts that may result in AIDS – a dreaded disease.

Keep in touch with the Indian Mission/Post and report any complaints about non-payment

or delayed payment of wages or compensation or any other problem to the Indian Mission.

17. Customs Formalities

Personal baggage – Customs checking is VERY STRICT. Kindly cooperate with the

Customs staff at the International airport.


Page 13 of 53

Ensure that one should not carry any narcotics.

DO NOT accept any unchecked parcel from any one. If you have to take a parcel for

someone unknown to you, check thoroughly that it does not contain narcotics. Otherwise,

it may land you in serious difficulties on arrival in the country of employment.

18. Precautions

One must make and keep a photocopy of all the pages of your passport. DO NOT lose

your passport or its photocopy.

In case you misplace your passport, inform the nearest Indian Mission immediately giving

those details i.e. passport number, date and place of issue, your name and date of your

entry into the country of employment. You can give these details only if you keep a

photocopy of your passport.

DO NOT lose your copy of the employment contract. Make photocopies and always keep

them with you.

You and your family members must have the full name, address, telephone/ fax number of

your foreign employer, before you leave India.

If you have difficulty in locating your foreign employer, contact the Indian Mission/Post

immediately.

DO NOT accept temporary or permanent employment with another person or

establishment other than the sponsoring company/ establishment/ person. Employment

with persons other than your original sponsor is strictly prohibited and attracts severe

punishment.

Before the visa or employment contract expires, get them renewed. If you are returning to

India for a short while during the tenure of your Employment Contract abroad, ensure that

the validity period of visa does not expire before you return to the country of employment.

Ensure also that one’s passport is valid. Get it revalidated from the concerned Indian

Mission abroad; or from the Regional Passport Office (RPO) in India, at least two months

before its expiry.

19. Important Contacts

1) Embassy of India – Bangkok, Kingdom of Thailand

46, Prasarnmitr, Sukhumvit, Soi 23

Bangkok 10110

Telephone: +66-02-2580300-5

Fax: +66-02-2584627 / 2621740

Email Contacts:





2) Consulate of India – Chiang Mai, Kingdom of Thailand






Page 14 of 53



Telephone: +66-(0)-53-243066

Fax: +66-(0)-53-247879


Consul & Head of Post +66-(0)-53-242469

Assistant +66-(0)-53-243066

Personal Assistant +66-(0)-53-242469

(Jurisdiction of Consulate of India, Chiang Mai: Chiangmai, Chiangrai, Lampang, Lamphun,

Mae Hong Son, Parae, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Sukhothai, Tad Uttradit, Phayao, Nakhon

Sawan, Kampengphet, Pichit and Utthai Thani)

3) Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs

Government of India

Akbar Bhavan, Chanakya Puri,

New Delhi-110021

Telephone No. 0091-11-24197900/52

Fax No. 0091-11-24197919


4) Minister of Overseas Indian Affairs

Shri Vayalar Ravi, Minister

Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs

Telephone No. (O) 0091-11-24676836 / 37 / 39

Fax No. (O) 0091-11-24197985


Telephone No. (R) 0091-11-23792148 / 49

Fax No. (R) 0091-11-23792142

5) Secretary, MOIA

Shri Prem Narain,


Telephone No. 0091-11-24674143 / 44

Fax No. : 0091-11-24674140


6) Protector General of Emigrants

Shri R.Buhril,


Telephone No. 0091-11-26874250

Fax No. : 0091-11-24197984


20. List of Offices of Protector of Emigrants in India

1. Protector of Emigrants, New Delhi

Jaisalmer House, Canteen Block, Mansingh Road, New Delhi-110001

Tel: 0091-11-23382472, Fax: 0091-11-23073908

2. Protector of Emigrants, Mumbai

Building E, Khira Nagar, S V Road, Santa Cruz (West), Mumbai-400054




Page 15 of 53

Tel: 0091-22-26614393, Fax: 0091-22-26614353

3. Protector of Emigrants, Thiruvananthapuram

5th Floor, NORKA Centre, Thycaud, Thiruvananthapuram-695014

Tel: 0091-471-2336625, Fax: 0091-471-2336626

4. Protector of Emigrants, Kochi

3rd

Floor, Putherikal Building, Market Road, Kochi-682035.

Tel: 0091-484-2360187, Fax: 0091-484-2360187

5. Protector of Emigrants, Chennai

TNHB Shopping Complex (Annexe), Ashok Nagar, Chennai-600083

Tel: 0091-44-24891337, Fax: 0091-44-24891337

6. Protector of Emigrants, Chandigarh

Kendriya Sadan, 5th Block, Ground Floor, Sector-9A, Chandigarh-160017

Tel: 0091-172-2741790, Fax: 0091-172-2741790

7. Protector of Emigrants, Kolkata

Room No.18, A-Wing, 3rd

Floor, M.S.O Building, D-F Block, Salt Lake,

Kolkata-700084. Tel: 0091-33-23343407, Fax: 0091-33-23343407

8. Protector of Emigrants, Hyderabad

Gruhkalpa, Ground Floor, Opposite to Gandhi Bhavan, Nampally,

Hyderabad-500001. Tel: 0091-40-24652557, Fax: 0091-40-24652557

9. Protector of Emigrants, Jaipur

CFC Building, RIICO, Sitapura Industrial Area, Tonk Road,

Jaipur-302022. Tel: 0091-141-2771529, Fax: 0091-141-2771529

10. Protector of Emigrants, Rae Bareli

Rudra Plaza, Hospital Road, Opposite Reform Club, Rae Bareli-229001

Tel: 0091-535-2211122

21. Information available on the website of MOIA

Revised emigration requirements

Recruiting agents having suspended RC

Online emigration clearance system

List of registered recruiting agents with valid RC at poeonline.gov.in

Recruiting agents having cancelled RC

Foreign employers on PAC

Project Exporters at peoonline.gov.in

Emigration Act, 1983

Emigration Rules, 1983 (Amended-2009)

Pravasi Bharatiya Bima Yojana

Redressal of Public Grievances Information on RAs

Guidelines for recruiting agents/ guidelines for prospective Emigrant workers.


Page 16 of 53

PART – II

COUNTRY MANUAL – KINGDOM OF THAILAND

1. Introduction

Thailand, officially the Kingdom of Thailand, was formerly known as Siam (Sayam), is a wondrous

kingdom in South East Asia, featuring Buddhist temples, exotic wildlife, and spectacular islands.

Along with a fascinating history and a unique culture that includes delectable Thai food and massage,

Bangkok is Thailand’s modern capital city, known for its friendly people who epitomize Thailand’s

“land of smiles” reputation.

2. Time Zone

Thailand Standard Time is 7 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+7). Time difference

between India and Thailand is: +1:30 Hours i.e. Thailand is ahead of India by 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Thailand does not operate Daylight-Saving Time.

3. Location & Size

Located at the center of the Indo-China peninsula

in South-East Asia, Thailand is truly at the heart of the

region.

Towards its north, Thailand is bordered by

Myanmar (Burma) and Laos; to the east by Laos and

Cambodia, to the south by the Gulf of Thailand and

Malaysia, and to the west by the Andaman Sea and the

southern extremity of Myanmar.

Its maritime boundaries include Vietnam in the Gulf

of Thailand to the southeast, and Indonesia and India in

the Andaman Sea to the southwest.

Thailand is the world's 51st largest country in terms

of total area, (approximately 513,000 sq.km)

4. Administrative Divisions

Thailand is divided into 76 provinces (Changwats), which are gathered into 5 groups of provinces

by location. There are also 2 special governed districts: the capital Bangkok (Krung Thep Maha

Nakhon) and Pattaya, of which Bangkok is at provincial level and thus often counted as a province.

Each province is divided into districts (Amphoe) and the districts are further divided into sub-

districts (Tambons). As of 2006 there are 877 districts and the 50 districts of Bangkok (Khet). Some

parts of the provinces bordering Bangkok are also referred to as Greater Bangkok (Pari Monthon).

These provinces include Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Samut Prakan, Nakhon Pathom and Samut


Page 17 of 53

Sakhon. The name of each province's capital city (Mueang) is the same as that of the province. For

example, the capital of Chiang Mai province is Mueang Chiang Mai or Chiang Mai.

5. Major Cities

As of January 2013, there are 31 major cities in the Kingdom. The National Capital “Bangkok”

(approx. population of 8,280,925 as of Aug, 2010) and the city of “Pattaya” (approx. population of

107,289 as of Aug, 2010) are two Self-Governed Districts and are outside of these divisions.

Other major cities apart from Bangkok and Pattaya are – Nonthaburi City, Pak Kret, Hat Yai,

Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima), Chiang Mai, Udon Thani, Surat Thani, Mae Sot, Khon Kaen, Nakhon Si

Thammarat, Nakhon Sawan, Ubon Ratchathani, Nakhon Pathom, Phitsanulok, Rangsit, Phuket,

Songkhla, Laem Chabang, Chiang Rai, Yala, Ko Samui, Trang, Lampang, Rayong, Samut Prakan,

Samut Sakhon, Ayutthaya, Om Noi, Sakon Nakhon

6. Population

Kingdom of Thailand is world’s 20th most-populous country. The current population of the

Kingdom of Thailand is about 69.52 million people, which is an approximate 6.2% increase from the

population taken in the 2010 census, and is growing at the rate of 0.566% annually (2011 est.).

The population is mostly rural, concentrated in the rice-growing areas of the central, northeastern,

and northern regions. However, as Thailand continues to industrialize, according to NESDB, its urban

population (about 45.7% of the total population, as of 2010) is growing principally in the Bangkok

area. In addition to Thai, it includes ethnic Chinese, Malay, Lao, Burma, Cambodia, and Indians,

among others.

7. Age Composition

0-14 years: 19.9% (male 6,779,723/female 6,466,625)

15-64 years: 70.9% (male 23,410,091/female 23,913,499)

65 years and over: 9.2% (male 2,778,012/female 3,372,203) (2011 est.)

8. Ethnic Composition

Thailand's ethnic Thais make up the majority of the population with over 70% of all inhabitants.

Thai Chinese make up to 15% of the overall inhabitants whereas, 12% of the total population is made

up of various other groups such as - Lao Isan; ethnically Malay; minority groups of Mons and Khmers;

various mountain-dwelling tribes Hmong, Mien, and Karen; and several other small Thai groups Shan,

Lue, and Phu Thai. Malay and Yawi-speaking Muslim's of the south comprise another significant

minority group (2.3%). The Khmers; and the Mon are substantially assimilated with the Thai; and the

Vietnamese.

Thailand is also home to thousands of foreigners from Europe (specifically United Kingdom) and

North America. Increasing numbers of migrants from Burma, Laos, Cambodia, Nepal, and India, along

with those from the West and Japan had pushed the total number of non-nationals residing in


Page 18 of 53

Thailand to about 1.3 million (as of year 2000). Hmong, who ironically have lived this area for more

generations than the Thais themselves, are yet to receive citizenship.

9. Languages

Thai, or more precisely Siamese or Central Thai, is the national and official language of Thailand

and the native language of the Thai people and Thai Chinese. Thai is the educational and

administrative language.

The principal spoken language in Thailand is also Thai, with significant minorities speaking

Chinese, Lao, Khmer and Malay. A large percentage of the Thai population speaks English as well.

Thai is a member of the Tai group of the Tai–Kadai language family. Over half of the words in

Thai are borrowed from Pali, Sanskrit and Old Khmer. It is a tonal and analytic language. Thai also

has a complex orthography and relational markers. Thai is mutually intelligible with Lao.

10. Climate

Thailand is typically hot all year round, but the climate varies considerably across different parts of

the country. Rains are generally expected during the summer months and drier times during the

winter months. For most of Thailand the rainy season - sometimes known as the summer monsoons –

lasts from May to the end of October. The rain can be torrential, with widespread flooding. In the

south east of the country, the rainy season is different and runs from November to March.

In Bangkok, Phuket and Koh Samui the temperature doesn’t vary too much from mid to high 30 oC

during the summer months of April to October, and can reach 40 oC. Bangkok can be oppressively

humid during the wetter months of May, June, July and August.

Further north in Chiang Mai the climate is rather more temperate and in the evenings a cardigan

or sweater may be required, especially during the drier winter season when the night-time

temperatures sometimes drop till 7 oC.

11. Natural Resources

Natural resources are a major factor in Thailand’s economic development, as natural resources

are raw materials used for production of goods and for the creation of services in several sectors,

from agricultural exports to tourism. The important natural resource includes the country’s wealth in

minerals, which are essential to the production industry in the country’s economic system, both as raw

materials and as export items.

Mineral resources that are mass-produced and used in the country include Fluorite, Gypsum,

Lead, Lignite, Tantalum, and Tungsten. Apart from these, following are also found in abundance in

Thailand – Rubber, Natural Gas, Timber, Fish, and Arable Land. Thailand is a leader in agricultural

exports of: rice, cassava (tapioca), rubber, corn, sugarcane, coconuts, and soybeans.


Page 19 of 53

Moreover, in addition to above the Natural Beauty is an essential variable in tourists’ choice of

Thailand, as it offers a great diversity of landscapes, ranging from rivers, scenic waterfalls, mountains,

and forests to long, clean seashores and enchanting islands.

12. History

Thailand (previously known as Siam) has been populated ever since the dawn of civilization in

Asia. There are conflicting opinions of the origins of the Thais. It presumed that about 4,500 years

Thais originated in northwestern Szechuan in China and later migrated down to Thailand along the

southern part of China. They split into two main groups. One settled down in the North and became

the kingdom of "Lanna" and the other one is in further south, which afterward was defeated by the

Khmers and became the Kingdom of "Sukhothai".

The present Thais first began settling their present homeland in the 6th century and by the end of

the 13th century ruled most of the western portion. Indianized kingdoms such as the Mon, Khmer and

Malay kingdoms had ruled the region. Thai people established their own states starting with

Sukhothai, Chiang Saen and Chiang Mai and Lanna Kingdom and then Ayutthaya kingdom. These

states fought each other and were under constant threat from the Khmers, Burma and Vietnam.

During the next 400 years, they fought sporadically with the Cambodians to the east and the Burmese

to the west.

Formerly called Siam, Thailand has never experienced foreign colonization. During the 19th and

early 20th centuries, the European colonial powers threatened (the British gained a colonial foothold

in the region in 1824), but Thailand survived as the only Southeast Asian state to avoid European

colonial rule because the French and the English decided it would be a neutral territory to avoid

conflicts between their colonies. In 1896 an Anglo-French accord guaranteed the independence of

Thailand.

A coup ended the absolute monarchy in 1932, and established a representative government with

universal suffrage. Thailand endured sixty years of almost permanent military rule before the

establishment of a democratic elected-government system.

13. Government

Kingdom of Thailand is a Constitutional Monarchy. The government, or the administration, is

the national authority established to administer the country and to plan for national development in

various aspects.

14. Political Setup

Thailand has adopted a parliamentary, democratic form of government, with the King as Head

of State under the Constitution, exercising the sovereign power in the administration, as Thailand is a

sovereign state free to conduct her internal and external affairs without pressure, control, or

intervention from other countries. The sovereign power comprises three branches –

i. Legislative power, or the legislature, the institution empowered to pass laws, namely the

National Assembly, in the form of a bicameral assembly, made up of a House of


Page 20 of 53

Representatives and a Senate. All members of the former are publicly elected, while in the

latter, out of 150 senators, one senator is elected from each province, making 76, and the

rest are appointed;

ii. Administrative power, or the administration, the institution that administers public policy and

enforces the laws, which is the administration or the government, comprising political officials

who are publicly elected to serve as the prime minister and cabinet members to administer

the country, and permanent officials, the civil service personnel in the public sector, who

implement policies and enforce the laws;

iii. Judicial power, or the judiciary, exercised by the courts and judges in the name of the state,

or the monarch. The power in the trial and adjudication of cases is in line with the provisions

in the laws. The courts are divided into the Constitutional Court, Administrative Courts, and

Courts of Justice.

14.1. The King and Queen

Thailand has been a constitutional monarchy since 1932, with democratization replacing

military rule from the late 1970s onwards. When immigrating to Thailand, it is essential for you to

understand the importance of the reigning sovereign, King Rama IX (Bhumibol Adulyadej), and his

wife Queen Sikrit.

Moreover, for a foreigner moving to Thailand, it is useful to know that lèse majesté – insulting

the royal family or even the king’s image – is a criminal offense, even for foreign nationals.

15. Economy

Thailand is the second largest economy in ASEAN after Indonesia, is an upper middle income

country with an open economy and a gross domestic product (GDP) of $365 billion in 2012.

Thailand’s GDP expanded 6.4% from 2011, when the economy grew only one percent. Besides its

strong fiscal and financial system, Thailand also has a suitable structure and foundation contributing

to economic development. Moreover, Thailand has always embraced the free trade system and

promoted international trade and investment, all factors that helped the country recover from the 1997

and 2008 economic crises in a short time.

Since the export-oriented Thai economy largely depends on the stability of the world economy,

the Thai government focuses on developing infrastructure within the country and stimulating all

aspects of the economy in a variety of ways. The main driving factors in the Thai economy, apart from

exports, are agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and the service industry. Thailand’s economy at

present can be termed as a mixed capitalist and socialist system, open to free competition and foreign

trade. Moreover, the country is open to foreign direct investment, which contributes to its fast and

steady economic growth.

Businesses in the agricultural; industrial; and service sectors are for the most part privately

owned, with certain state-owned units such as state enterprises operating public utilities, as well as

state-owned financial institutions. At present, the government sector’s role in production activities has

been reduced, by transforming state enterprises into private concessions for various public utility

projects such as electric trains and telephone connections.


Page 21 of 53

Thailand experienced rapid economic growth between 1985 and 1996, and is presently a newly

industrialized country and a major exporter. Tourism also contributes significantly to the Thai

economy. There are approximately 2.2 million legal and illegal migrants in Thailand, and the country

has also attracted a number of expatriates from developed countries

As per economic statistics presently available –

Currency of Thailand : Thai Bhat (THB)

Currency Valuation : 1USD = 32.10 THB as on 19/03/2014

: 1 INR = 0.53 THB as on 19/03/2014

National GDP : 365.56 billion USD in 2012

: (Represents 0.59% of the world economy)

Foreign Exchange Reserves : 168080.99 million USD in February of 2014

Inflation Rate : 1.96% in February of 2014

16. Relations with India

16.1. Indo-Thai Relations

India and Thailand, located in each other’s extended neighborhood, share a maritime boundary

in the Andaman Sea. India’s bilateral relations with Thailand are rooted in history, age-old socio-

cultural interactions and extensive people to people contacts. However, in modern history, diplomatic

relations between Thailand and India were established soon after India gained independence in 1947.

The shared link of Buddhism is reflected in regular pilgrimages to places of Buddhist interest in

India by a large number of Thai people; dating back to the 329 BC when the Indian Emperor Ashoka

sent Sona and Uttra to Suvanabhumi to spread the message of Buddhism in Thailand. Hindu

elements can be found among those reflected in Thai architecture, arts, sculpture, dance, drama and

literature. The Thai language incorporates Pali and Sanskrit influences. A large Indian Diaspora living

and working in Thailand is another important bond.

Throughout the past six decades after the establishment of modern diplomatic relations

between Thailand and India, our two countries have leveraged our long-standing historical and

cultural ties into the current warm friendship, close cooperation and shared values. The convergence

of Thailand's "Look West" policy since 1996 and India's "Look East" policy of 1993 has resulted in

mutually beneficial cooperation covering diverse dimensions ranging from trade & investment, science

& technology, defence, agriculture to tourism, culture and education.

Significant improvements in the relations between Thailand and India were brought in by the

increasing exchange of high-level visits of both sides. The visits to the Republic of India by His Royal

Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn

and Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn have highlighted the cordial relations between our two

countries at highest level. The exchange visits by the Thai and Indian Prime Minister and cabinet

members, leaders and members of parliament, as well as the judiciary at bilateral, regional and

multilateral levels have contributed to the closer political, security, economic, social as well as cultural

ties between our two countries and peoples.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newly_industrialized_country

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newly_industrialized_country

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tourism_in_Thailand

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Illegal_immigration_in_Thailand

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Expatriate


Page 22 of 53

The Thailand-India Joint Commission (JC) for Bilateral Cooperation has served as a major

forum to strengthen bilateral ties. Thailand hosted the last JC in 2007 in Bangkok

16.2. Economic Cooperation

Economic & commercial linkages form an important aspect of Thailand’s partnership with India.

The past few years have seen a rapid intensification of these linkages between the two countries.

Bilateral trade has grown significantly and has multiplied five times since 2000 to reach 6.64

billion USD in 2010. This represents nearly 35% increase from trade in 2009. The Trade figure in

2010 includes Thai exports worth 4.39 billion USD and Thai imports worth 2.25 billion USD.

A major factor lies in the implementation of Early Harvest Scheme (EHS) under the Framework

Agreement for Establishing Free Trade Area between Thailand and India which was signed in

October 2003. The operation of EHS containing 82 products commenced on 1 September 2004. At

present, Thailand and India are in a process of negotiating to concluding an FTA covering trade in

goods, which would further boost stronger bilateral economic ties.

Significant mechanisms facilitating the Indo-Thai economic cooperation are:

1. Joint Trade Committee (JTC): established 2532. The last meeting was held in Bangkok in

September 2003

2. Joint Business Council : run by Thai Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Industry of

Thailand and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and

Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)

Investment by Indian and Thai companies into each other’s countries is growing. Indian

companies have invested around US$ 1.5 billion in Thailand since 1970s (according to data from the

Board of Investment of Thailand). Thailand has invested over US$ 44 million in India (April 2000-Sep

2008) according to Department of Industrial Policy Promotion of Government of India.

Thai business groups in India include leading Thai companies in the fields of Agro-

processing, construction, automotive, engineering and banking. Major Thai companies

active in India are - C P Aquaculture (India) Ltd., Ital Thai Development Pcl., Krung Thai

Bank Pcl., Charoen Pokphand (India) Private Limited, Thai Summit Neel Auto Pvt. Ltd.,

Delta Electronics, Prueksa Real Estate, Thai Airways International Pcl. and Precious

Shipping (PSL) of Thailand.

From the Indian side, the Aditya Birlagroup, Indo Rama group, Tata Group, Ranbaxy,

Dabur, Lupin, NIIT are among major Indian companies doing business in Thailand and

reflecting the diverse sectors of interest, which are chemicals, textiles, pharmaceuticals,

steel, automotive, and IT. Groups like Aditya Birla and Indo Rama have had business

presence in Thailand for several decades. The Tata group has growing business interest

in Thailand with Tata Motors forming a joint venture with Thonburi Automotive Assembly

Plant Co. to form Tata Motors (Thailand), which has launched a pickup truck in the Thai

market in March 2008; Tata Steel having invested in the largest Thai steel manufacturer

Millennium Steel to create Tata Steel Thailand; and Tata Consultancy Services having a


Page 23 of 53

long presence. Several Indian Public Sector companies are also present in Thailand.

These include: Indian Overseas Bank, Bank of Baroda, New India Assurance, Indian,

The Royal Thai Embassy in New Delhi has worked toward the further deepening and

diversification of Thailand-India ties and has contributed to promoting the economic linkages by

organizing a series of business seminar on economic cooperation, business road shows as well as

the annual Thai Festival “Destination Thailand”. In September 2008, the Royal Thai Embassy in

cooperation with the Ministry for the Development of the North Eastern Region (DONER) and the

Indian Chamber of Commerce, successfully organized a business Roadshow in Guwahati, as a part

of the 4th North East Business Summit. In 2009, the Embassy organized “Destination Thailand” event

during 26-28 September to showcase Thailand in all aspects, namely Thai products, Thai food and

fruits, Thai massage, tourism and Thai cultural performances.

Major items of Thai exports to India include: machinery & machinery appliances; organic

chemicals; electrical machinery and parts; rubbers; plastics; auto parts/accessories; fabrics;

refrigerator compressors.

Major Items of Thai imports from India include: precious & semi-precious stones; machinery &

machinery appliances; iron and steel; medicinal & pharmaceutical products.

16.3. Framework Agreement for Establishing Free Trade Area

Signed on 9 October 2003 in Bangkok, Thailand, the Framework Agreement aims to promote

trade in goods, services and investment, as well as economic cooperation between India and

Kingdom of Thailand. The Early Harvest Scheme, encompassing trade in 82 items, would be

implemented on 1 September 2004.

(Source: http://www.thaiemb.org.in/en/information/fta.php)

17. Labour Market

Thailand does not face the prospect of a near- or medium-term decline in its working-age

population. Thailand is heavily reliant on foreign labor due to its revealed labor shortage, meaning that

even though there does not appear to be, a strong demand from enterprises in the plantation,

agriculture, manufacturing and construction sectors has resulted in a huge influx of foreign workers

into the country. By some estimates, it is as much as 2 million foreign workers.

In Thailand, there is no systematic attempt to measure the extent of the country’s labor

shortage (or to control the number of foreign workers based on that measure). Rather, the labor

shortage has directly manifested itself in the huge absorption of foreign workers, mainly from

neighbouring countries, in the agriculture, manufacturing and services. Thailand is also similar to

Malaysia in that it has porous borders, on the other side of which is poor neighboring countries.

A labor shortage can be deemed implicit, however, in the very low unemployment rate in

Thailand, which at close to 1 in recent years is one of the lowest in the world. The total number of

unemployed workers in Thailand is fewer than half a million, which is just a fraction of the total number

of foreign workers in the country (sometimes estimated at more than 2 million, when irregular migrant

http://www.thaiemb.org.in/en/information/fta.php


Page 24 of 53

workers are also included). The bulk of jobs carried out by migrant workers are low-end jobs that not

enough Thais are willing to accept at the going wage rates.

18. Law of Thailand

The Constitution of Thailand is the supreme law of Kingdom of Thailand which prevails over

other laws passed by parliament. The first charter was granted when the country changed from an

absolute monarchy to a parliamentary democracy with the King as the Head of State under the

constitution created in 1932. The 2007 Constitution of Thailand is the most recent constitution.

The Constitutional Court of Thailand has jurisdiction to make rulings over the constitutionality of

parliamentary acts, royal decrees, draft legislation, appointment and removal of public officials and

issues regarding political parties (see Rulings of the Constitutional Court of Thailand).

Secondary to the Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand, are acts and codes (Laws) enacted

by the legislative branch or the National Assembly. Legislation in Thailand is enacted in consideration

of five objectives:

Establishing and maintaining law and order, safety, and social security, such as criminal

laws or drug suppression acts;

Ending conflicts, such as laws considered in courts;

Setting directions and solving social problems at present and in the future, such as town

planning laws and education reform laws;

Allocating resources and setting up economic structures, such as tax laws and budget laws;

Instituting and defining political and administrative structures, such as setting election dates,

and establishing rules for operation of the National Assembly, the courts, and the Council of

Ministers.

19. Criminal Laws

The laws of Thailand are based on the civil law, but have been influenced by common law.

Criminal offences (that can lead to arrest and imprisonment) in Thailand are enumerated in the Thai

Penal Code (or Criminal Code) as well as numerous other statutes. Criminal procedures are outlined

in the Criminal Procedure Code.

Drug offences are dealt with by several statutes. The Narcotics Act BE 2522 (AD 1979)

defines narcotics, classifies them into categories, details offences and outlines

punishments. Penalties for producing, importing or exporting narcotics are outlined in

sections 65 to 102 (Chapter 12) and include fines, life imprisonment or death. Other

narcotics laws include the Psychotropic Substances Act BE 2518 (AD 1975) and the

Narcotics Control Act BE 2519 (AD 1976).

The offence of Lèse majesté is found in the Criminal Code. Article 112 states that "Whoever

defames, insults or threatens the King, Queen, the Heir-apparent or the Regent, shall be

punished (with) imprisonment of three to fifteen years".


Page 25 of 53

19.1. Application of Criminal Law

An act may only be punished if criminal liability had been established and penalty had been

determined by the law which is in force at the time of the act. The penalty to be inflicted

must be that which had been prescribed by such law.

Law shall apply to acts performed inside the Kingdom.

An act performed on board a Thai ship or Thai aircraft, irrespective of wherever it is, shall

be deemed to be performed inside the Kingdom.

The act shall be deemed to be performed inside the Kingdom even it is partially performed

inside the Kingdom, or if its result occurs inside the Kingdom in conformity with the intent of

the offender or if, by nature of the act, its result ought to occur inside the Kingdom or it

could be conjectured that such result would occur inside the Kingdom.

As regards an act prescribed by law to be contributable to an offence, the preparation or

attempt shall be deemed to be committed inside the Kingdom if the act is committed to the

stage of completion, its result would occur inside the Kingdom.

With respect to an offence committed or deemed by this Code to be committed inside the

Kingdom, the act of the principal, aider or abettor shall be deemed to be performed inside

the Kingdom also.

19.2. Common pre-cautions while in Thailand

It is illegal to import more than 200 cigarettes per person into Thailand.

You should carry your passport with you at all times.

Bangkok has strict laws on litter and rubbish disposal, so make sure you always dispose of

your litter in a bin.

There are fines for those seen to spit or drop cigarette stubs in the street.

Penalties for drug offences are very severe in Thailand, with jail terms not uncommon

even for ‘soft’ drugs.

It is against the law to kill wildlife for food in Thailand, so avoid visiting local restaurants

where wild animal dishes are on the menu. For animal welfare and conservation reasons

you should also avoid buying any products or souvenirs made from animals including

reptiles, and from elephant ivory and turtle shell.

20. Labor Law

In Thailand, all the rights and duties pertaining to employers and employees are generally

governed by a series of laws and regulations. The Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare is charged

with implementing Labor Laws and performing Labor inspections throughout the country to provide a

reasonable work environment and protects workers against labor exploitation and preserve their

rights.

The minimum employment age is 15 years old for both males and females. However, no

children under the age of 18 may work without the permission of the Labor Inspector and there are


Page 26 of 53

restrictions on their hours of work. There is a minimum wage in Thailand which is slightly higher in

Bangkok than in the provinces.

Different acts that govern labor issues in Thailand are the following:

(A) THE LABOR PROTECTION ACT B.E. 2541 (1998)

This act is the most important act in Thailand labor law and was promulgated with effect from

August 19, 1998 and brought practices more in line with International Labor Organization (ILO)

standards. This mainly concern about the rights and duties of employers and employees. It

primarily establishes minimum standard practices in general labor force utilization, women and

child labor utilization, remuneration, severance and employee welfare fund. It also prescribes

the interventions by government officials in providing protection to labors so as to ensure

fairness and sound occupational health for the maximum benefit of both employers and

employees, which will ultimately be beneficial for the national development.

(B) ALIEN EMPLOYMENT ACT B.E. 2521 (1978)

Alien Employment Act was enacted to control alien employment and the issuance of work

permits to aliens and to reserve certain occupations for the Thai labor force. According to this

Act, aliens of the following 3 categories are qualified to apply for work permits:

Alien who resides in the Kingdom of Thailand or is allowed temporary stay in the

kingdom, but not as a tourist or a transit traveler.

Alien who is allowed to work in the Kingdom according to the investment promotion laws

or other laws.

Alien who has been deported but is allowed to work in certain location in replacement of

deportation or while awaiting deportation; alien who has illegal entry into the kingdom or

is awaiting a forced transfer out of the Kingdom; and alien who was born in the kingdom

but not granted Thai nationality or was denaturalized, is eligible to work in 27 occupations

as stipulated in the Ministerial Announcement.

Generally, when considering whether to allow foreign nationals into the country to work, the

Department of Employment will look at things such as whether the work could be done by a

Thai, whether the foreigner is appropriately qualified and whether the job fits the needs of

Thailand. Companies that are entitled to investment promotion under the Investment Promotion

Act will be able to obtain work permits for foreign nationals more easily, and there may be more

flexibility on employment requirements. There is currently a general statutory requirement that a

ratio of 4:1 must be met when employing a foreigner; four employees must be local nationals in

order to employ one foreigner (Order of Immigration Office No. 110/2546 (2003)). All non-locals

are subject to immigration controls and require employment visas before entering into

employment in Thailand. The general rule is that a visa must be obtained from the Thai

Embassy on the country of residence of the applicant before departure for Thailand. A local

sponsor is required (normally the employing company) to support the application. In considering

an application, the Immigration Department must be satisfied that there is no suitable local

candidate for the position. Where the post involves a special skill or is of a senior nature, this is

not normally a problem.


Page 27 of 53

(C) LABOR RELATIONS ACT B.E. 2518 (1975)

This act sets out a comprehensive framework of rules for employees and employers to

negotiate labor disputes. The aim is to create a good understanding and successful

reconciliation between employers and employees which will result in a peaceful atmosphere

and co-existence in the industry. This will ultimately be beneficial to the national development.

The Act also provides for the registration of trade unions, trade union federations, employers’

associates and employers’ federations. Employees who engage in trade union activities may

not be disciplined or dismiss for such activities. Generally speaking, trade unions are not very

active in Thailand.

(D) THE LABOR COURT AND LABOR COURT PROCEDURE B.E. 2522 (1979)

This Act is concern about labor court procedures and gives jurisdiction to the Central Labor

Court, The Regional Labor Court or Provincial Labor Court over the following matter:

Disputes concerning the right or duties under and employment agreement or under the

terms concerning the state of employment.

Disputes concerning the rights or duties under the law relating to labor protection or the

law relating to labor relations.

Cases where the rights must be exercised through the court according to the law relating

to labor protection or the law relating to labor relations.

Cases of appeal against a decision of the competent official under the law relating to

labor protection or of the Labor Relations Committee or the Minister under the law relating

to labor relations.

Cases arising from the ground of wrongful acts between the employers and the

employees in connection with a labor dispute or in connection with the performance of

work under an employment agreement.

Labor disputes which the Minister of Interior requests the labor court to decide in

accordance with the law relating to labor relations.

20.1. Minimum Wages

There is a minimum wage in Thailand which is slightly higher in Bangkok than in the provinces.

The figures given below are indicative and are subject to change and should be checked from time to

time.

Minimum daily wage varies depending upon location from 148 Baht in some provincial areas to

203 Baht in Bangkok. The enforcement of the new minimum daily wage rate was made in June 1,

2008. An employer is obligated to pay the minimum wage applicable and violation is an offense

punishable by imprisonment or fine. Indicative wage-rates are as follows:


Page 28 of 53

Wages (in Baht) Area

203 Bangkok, Nakornpratom, Nonthaburi, Pratumthani,Samutprakarn and Samutsakorn

197 Phuket

180 Chonburi

179 Saraburi

173 Chachengsao, Pranakornsriayuthaya and Rayong

170 Nakornratchasima

169 Ranong

168 Pang-nga and Chiangmai

165 Krabi and Kanchanaburi

164 Petchaburi and Ratchaburi

163 Chantaburi, Prachinburi and Lopburi

162 Loei

161 Singhaburi and Angthong

160 Prachaubkirikhan, Samutsongcram and Srakaew

158 Chumporn and Uthaihani

157 Chaingrai, Trang, Nongkhai and Udonthani

156 Kampaengpetch, Trad, Nakornnayok and Lumpoon

155 Kalasin, Nakorndrithammarat, Nakornsawan,Burirum, Pattani, Pattalung, Petchaboon, Yasothon,Yala, Sakonnakorn, Satoon and Suratthani

154 Khonkean, Chainat, Roi-ed, Lumpang, Suphanburi, Nongbualumpoo and Ubonratchatani

153 Nakornpanom, Naratiwat, Mugdahan and Amnatchareon

152 Phitsanulok

151 Tak, Nan, Mahasaracram, Maehongsorn, Sukaothai And Surin

150 Payao, Pichit, Phrae and Srisaket

149 Uttraradit

148 Chaiyaphum

Note: The above rates are indicative only, and are subject to change from time to time.

According to a recent report published in Thai media, the labor wages in Thailand are expected

to rise by 5.8 per cent this year, outstripping the estimated inflation rate of 3.2 per cent, because of

the tight labor market, with unemployment at 1 per cent, the lowest in the region, according to Towers

Watson, a global professional-services company.

21. Religion

Buddhism is primarily followed religion in Thailand practiced by over 95% of the population.

“Theravada Buddhism” is officially the religion of Thailand. Muslims are some 10% and 5% other

religions including Christianity, Hinduism, especially among immigrants.

In addition to Malay and Yawi speaking Thais and other southerners who are Muslim, the Cham

of Cambodia in recent years has begun a large scale influx into Thailand.

22. Religious Freedom

Thailand permits religious diversity, and other major religions are represented, though there is

much social tension, especially in the South. Spirit worship and animism are widely practiced.

There are two sacred subjects in Thailand – one of them is the monarchy. The Thais have an

unswerving devotion to their monarch and it is a criminal offence to make a derogatory comment

about any member of the Thai Royal Family. Should you be overheard doing so, this can be

punishable by a jail sentence of up to 15 years.


Page 29 of 53

The second sacred subject is religion. The Thais’ devotion to the monarchy is matched only by

their dedication to their religion, with approximately 95% of the nation being Buddhists. Visitors need

to be considerate of this commitment and ensure that their behaviour is not in any way disrespectful:

Each Buddha image, large or small, ruined or not, is regarded as a sacred object. Never

climb onto one, and never have your photograph taken with one as this might indicate a

lack of respect.

It is forbidden for a Buddhist monk to touch or be touched by a woman, or even to accept

anything from a woman’s hand.

If travelling on a local bus and sitting in a rear seat, be prepared to vacate this if

necessary, as these are reserved for monks.

If a monk is seated never stand over him, as monks must always remain at the highest

elevation.

Remember to dress appropriately if visiting any religious shrine or temple. You should

always wear a shirt or tee-shirt, and refrain from wearing shorts. It’s acceptable to wear

shoes when walking around the compound of a Buddhist temple, but not inside the chapel

where the principal Buddha image is kept so remove them before entering.

23. Traditional Values

Because such a high percentage of the population practices Buddhism, the religion plays a

huge role in every day society. Because of this, there are three main values that come as a result of

Buddhism are – Respect, Self-control, and A non-confrontational attitude towards others. Showing

anger towards others or telling lies are both very shameful acts in the country.

Another important value is respect for elders and for those in high positions, including doctors

and monks. Along with this, family is very important to society and those in Thailand. Extended

families often live with each other as a part of the culture. Also, while the society is male dominant,

women do have respect and equality. Lastly, one thing that is central to the Thai way of life is the

concept of sanuk. This is a way of life that is about combining playfulness and a sense of humor.

Essentially, enjoying life and enjoying each other’s company and humor is a large part of what makes

the culture special.

To the Thai people, temples are the most important part of their everyday life and thus visitors

to the country need to respect this and pay attention to the temple etiquette given in the Customs

(Religion) section of this guide. All the temples are open to the general public and many, in Bangkok

in particular, need to be visited to experience a taste of centuries gone by and the development of

Buddhism within Thailand. The Thai word for temple is wat and among the many "must see" temples

with their dazzling array of colours and exotic smells are the Temple of the Emerald Buddha and The

Golden Buddha at Wat Traimit. The Reclining Buddha at Wat Po is an enormous Buddha covered in

gold leaf and lying on its side - a truly incongruous yet magnificent sight. Don’t miss the Grand Palace

with its golden domes, fluted spires and glittering temples, situated close to the banks of the Chao

Phraya - ‘The River of Kings’. This is a perfect example of an ancient Siamese court and houses the


Page 30 of 53

aforementioned Emerald Buddha. This most precious image of the Lord Buddha is believed to have

supernatural powers and is dressed in robes according to the season by the King of Thailand himself.

All of the above are in Bangkok, but in Chiang Mai there are 121 temples within the city

boundary alone (with another 200 in the area!), and throughout the whole country you can at any time

come upon Thais making their way to the local temple as part of their daily routine. Nothing is more

important to them, and whatever your own beliefs their spiritual conviction and commitment are

thought-provoking and somewhat humbling.

24. Social Life in Thailand

Thailand has always been able to harness the talents of its people, make effective use of its

natural environment, and progress at an evolutionary pace. Although Thai society appeared

homogeneous, it actually represented a compromise among various groups, which, in order to

preserve their own identity, accepted certain aspects of general Thai identity, or Ekkalak Thai.

The culture of Thailand incorporates cultural beliefs and characteristics indigenous to the area

known as modern-day Thailand coupled with much influence from ancient India, China, Cambodia,

along with the neighboring pre-historic cultures of Southeast Asia. It is influenced primarily by

Animism, Hinduism, Buddhism, as well as by later migrations from China, and southern India.

25. Socio-Cultural Customs

WAI – One of the most distinctive Thai customs is the wai. Showing greeting, farewell, or

acknowledgement, it comes in several forms reflecting the relative status of those involved. Generally

the salutation involves a prayer-like gesture with the hands, similar to the Añjali Mudrā of the Indian

subcontinent, and it also may include a slight bow of the head. This salutation is often accompanied

by a serene smile symbolizing a welcoming disposition and a pleasant attitude. Thailand is often

referred to as the "Land of Smiles" in tourist brochures.

The wai is the common form of greeting and adheres to strict rules of protocol.

Raising both hands, palms joined with the fingers pointing upwards as if in prayer, lightly

touching the body somewhere between the chest and the forehead, is the standard form.

The wai is both a sign of respect as well as a greeting. Respect and courtesy are

demonstrated by the height at which the hands are held and how low the head comes down

to meet the thumbs of both hands.

The wai may be made while sitting, walking, or standing.

The person who is junior in age or status is the first one to offer the wai.

The senior person returns the wai, generally with their hands raised to somewhere around

their chest.

If a junior person is standing and wants to wai a senior person who is seated, the junior

person will stoop or bow their head while making the wai.

If there is a great social distance between two people, the wai will not be returned.


Page 31 of 53

Thai Monks – There are a number of Thai customs relating to the special status of monks in

Thai society. Due to religious discipline, Thai monks are forbidden physical contact with women.

Women are therefore expected to make way for passing monks to ensure that accidental contact

does not occur. Women making offerings to monks place their donation at the feet of the monk, or on

a cloth laid on the ground or a table

Public Display of Affection – Display of affection in public is not overly common in

traditional Thai society, especially between lovers. However, views are changing to accept this and it

is becoming more common, especially among the younger generation.

Traditional Clothing – Traditional Thai clothing is called chut thai means "Thai outfit". It can

be worn by men, women, and children. Chut Thai for women usually consists of a pha nung or a

chong kraben, a blouse, and a sabai. Northern and Northeastern women may wear a sinh instead of a

pha nung and a chong kraben with either a blouse or a suea pat. Chut thai for men includes a chong

kraben or pants, a Raj pattern shirt, with optional knee-length white socks and a sabai. Chut thai for

Northern Thai men is composed of a sado, a white Manchu styled jacket, and sometimes a khian hua.

In formal occasions, people may choose to wear a chut thai phraratchaniyom.

Gender – Women in Thailand were among the first women in Asia who were granted the right

to vote in 1932. Factors that affect women's participation in the socio-economic field include

"inadequate gender awareness in the policy and planning process" and social stereotyping.

The transformation of Thailand's social and economic structure since the 1960s led to the

gender disparities in Thai society. Recently, the position of Thai women in the labor market has

improved a lot in comparison to the past as a result of modernization. In 2011, Thailand ranked 69th

out of 146 countries in the Gender Inequality Index of the UNDP's Gender Inequality Index (GII).

Thai government and non-governmental organizations have put forth many policies and

programs to address gender inequalities in the last few decades.

Alcohol Consumption – Alcohol consumption in Thailand is permitted. The legal drinking age

in Thailand is 20. The drinking age was raised from 18 to 20 in 2006.

According to the latest alcohol consumption data collected by World Health Organization,

Thailand, with 40% of drinkers found in North-East region, is the top alcohol-consuming country in

ASEAN (ranked 1st among ASEAN countries) in alcohol consumption, followed closely by Laos and

the Philippines.

Marriages – Thai marriage ceremonies between Buddhists are generally divided into two parts:

a Buddhist component, which includes the recitation of prayers and the offering of food and other gifts

to monks and images of the Buddha, and a non-Buddhist component rooted in folk traditions, which

centers on the couple's family.

As per Thai customs, both partners must be at least 17 years of age at the time of marriage. A

court order would otherwise be needed. If the woman is a widow or is divorced, the marriage can only

take place after expiry of 310 days from her husband's death or termination of the marriage, with few

exceptions.


Page 32 of 53

If the couples are Muslim and from the Southern provinces Pattani, Yala, Narathiwas, or Satul,

the Islamic law will apply.

A Thai wedding generally consists of two parts: the legal and the ceremonial. These are done

separately. There is no requirement of government documentation to have a religious ceremony,

which is most common with Thai people.

Dowry – The Thai dowry system is known as the 'Sin Sodt'. Traditionally, the groom will be

expected to pay a sum of money to the family, to compensate them and to demonstrate that the

groom is financially capable of taking care of their daughter. Sometimes, this sum is purely symbolic,

and will be returned to the bride and groom after the wedding has taken place.

Polygamy – Polygamy is illegal in Thailand.

26. Expatriate Life Style in Thailand

There is a very diverse expat community in Thailand, which includes retirees, executive

managers, students, teachers and business owners. People are attracted to the lifestyle here, which

affords them a relaxed way of life in a beautiful location. There are, however, some drawbacks to

locating yourself here as an expat. Property and land ownership is virtually impossible and visa

regulations can be cumbersome. If you are prepared to face such difficulties however you can be

guaranteed an interesting lifestyle in a very pleasant climate.

There are some job opportunities available for expats but these are usually only available via

internal company transfers or are jobs that are secured from their home country prior to arriving in

Thailand. People who are willing to work in bars or restaurants will find it relatively easy to find a job

providing that they are prepared to work for a very low salary. Many expats move to Thailand to start

their own business or to teach English, both of which are highly feasible options.

26.1. Meeting & Greeting:

Thais are hospitable and friendly, and easy to get along with. They value good manners and a

smile, and armed with these and patience, humor and a phrasebook for your journeys outside the

major cities, you should encounter no problems with the people of this stunning country. However,

you need to be aware of a few moral and social customs to avoid any difficult situations and

misunderstandings or embarrassment.

When being introduced or greeting someone, men say Sawatdee-krap and women say

Sawatdee-kah.

Thai’s greet each other with a "wai" and not a handshake. Foreigners are not expected to

initiate the wai gesture, but it is an insult not to return the wai. Wai is a prayer-like gesture

of pressing the palms together which you will soon observe on your visit.

Standing over anyone, especially someone older or wise is regarded as rude since it

implies social superiority. As a sign of courtesy, lower your head as you pass a group of

people. If you’re not sure what to do, then watch the Thais.

Thais believe that the head is the most sacred part of the body, so never touch or pat

anyone in Thailand on the head, even in the friendliest of circumstances.


Page 33 of 53

Even if you’re in a frustrating or annoying situation, don’t lose your temper, shout, or even

raise your voice. Only patience and a good sense of humor work in Thailand!

Amorous behaviour in public is unacceptable and in fact even opposite-sex handholding or

affectionate gestures are not considered proper behaviour in the more traditional areas

outside Bangkok.

Be polite, if you’re a man you should end your sentence with the word khrap, and if you’re

a woman, with the word kha. You can also use these same words to answer yes to a

question or to show agreement with what is being said.

26.2. Useful Phrases

Knowledge of following phrases is generally helpful for expatriates in Thailand. The Thai people

you encounter generally get delighted that expats making the effort and keenly offer help to perfect

the pronunciation.

Hello sa-wat dii

Goodbye laa kawn

Please ka-ru-naa

Thank you khawp khun

No thank you mai ao khawp khun

Yes chai

No mai chai

Excuse me khaw a-phai

Sorry khaw thoht

Today wan nii

Tomorrow phrung nii

Monday wan jan

Tuesday wan ang-khaan

Wednesday wan phut

Thursday wan pha-reu-hat

Friday wan suk

Saturday wan sao

Sunday wan aa-thit

How much? thao rai?

Too expensive phaeng pai

Smaller lek kwaa

Bigger yai kwaa

Beer bia

Tea chaa

Coffee kaafae

Drinking water naam deum

Orange Juice naam som


Page 34 of 53

Thai’s say "Where are you going" rather than "Hello." A polite response is "Just down the

street."

26.3. Hands and Feet Conduct:

If a wai is not offered to you, shake hands with men and smile and nod to women. A

Thai businessperson may shake hands with a foreigner. Offer a wai only to a person of

equal or greater status. Subordinates should offer a wai first. Monks do not return a wai.

Touching between people of the same sex is more common in Thailand than in many

other Asian countries. However, touching someone of the opposite sex is taboo. Do not

show affection in public.

Don't wave your hands about as you talk, giving Thais the impression that you are

angry. Never pass anything with your left hand. Never point with your hand and never,

never with one finger.

Do not put your hands in your pockets while talking to someone. Never put your arm

over the back of the chair in which someone is sitting.

Do not cross your legs in the presence of the elderly or monks.

To beckon someone, extend your arm with the palm of your hand down and flutter your

fingers up and down.

A notable social norm holds that touching someone on the head may be considered

rude. It is also considered rude to place one's feet at a level above someone else's

head, especially if that person is of higher social standing. This is because the Thai

people consider the foot to be the dirtiest and lowliest part of the body, and the head

the most respected and highest part of the body.

Since, feet are considered the lowest part of the body; this also influences how Thais sit

when on the ground. They make sure that their feet or soles of feet are always pointing

away from others, or tucked to the side or behind them. Pointing at or touching

something with the feet is also considered rude.

When sitting in a temple, one is expected to point one's feet away from images of the

Buddha. Shrines inside Thai residences are arranged so as to ensure that the feet are

not pointed towards the religious icons

It is customary to remove one's footwear before entering a home or the sacred areas

within a temple, and not to step on the threshold.

26.4. Titles / Forms of Address:

In Thailand it is customary to call everyone by their first name, but unless speaking to

servants it is not very polite to use the name alone without a title of some sort in front of it just

as we use the word “Mr.” in front of a man’s name in English.

Though, titles are very important for Thai people, they reserve titles and last names

for very formal occasions and written communications. Last names have been used in

Thailand for only the past fifty years and are difficult even for Thais to pronounce. Two people

with the same last name are almost certainly related.


Page 35 of 53

Foreigners are often addressed by their given names because it is easier for Thais; it

does not imply familiarity. Thais will probably call you Mr. Joe or Mrs. Mary.

Since, in Thailand, many business people are Chinese. Their names generally consist

of a family name, followed by two (sometimes one) personal names. In the name

Chang Wu Jiang, “Chang” is the surname (or clan name). He would be addressed with

his title plus Chang (Mr. Chang, Dr. Chang).

Ethnic Thais predominate in government positions, but they will also be found in the

business world.

Since the adoption of surnames in the 1920s, ethnic Thais generally have two names.

Their given name will come first, then their surname. Given names in Thailand are often

unique, and given (first) name.

When speaking to or about a man of approximately the same social status as yourself

you can use NAI (meaning Mr.) in front of the name or a more polite word still, KOON.

KOON should certainly be used for men of superior social status and is in very general

use even amongst friends.

For females the words corresponding to NAI are NAHNG (Mrs.) and NAHNGSAOU

(Miss.) but these are never used in conversation, only in writing. In conversation we

always use KOON as for men.

Nicknames are popular in Thailand. Do not be surprised if the Thais give you a

nickname, particularly if your name is hard for them to pronounce.

26.5. Gift Giving Etiquette:

Gift giving in Thailand is often informal. Except at weddings or other important events,

it is not necessarily expected. However, preparing a simple, neatly-wrapped gift is certainly a

worthwhile gesture of friendship and appreciation. If you are going to give a gift to a Thai

friend or host, there are a few important things to know:

Don’t wrap a gift in black, blue, or green. These are the colors used at funerals, and are

associated with mourning. Red is an auspicious color for gifts among Chinese Thais.

It is not common for Thais to open a gift in front of the giver.

Fruit, flowers, candy or chocolates are always safe choices. You may also give books,

liquors, or stationary. Use your best judgment about what your host would find

appropriate or useful.

If you are invited to someone’s home, bringing a gift is not mandatory. However, a small

token of gratitude is always appreciated.

26.6. Dress Code:

Apart from on the beach, wearing shorts, swimwear and skimpy clothing including

sleeveless tee-shirts is considered improper and low-class attire. It is acceptable for children.

Regardless of the heat, you should wear long trousers whilst in town – and actually, wearing

light loose clothing does help keep you cool, as well as complying with Thai standards of


Page 36 of 53

modesty. Going nude or topless on beaches is considered unacceptable and offensive (a lot

of Thais swim fully clothed) and in some cases is illegal.

Remember to dress appropriately if visiting any religious shrine or temple. You should

always wear a shirt or tee-shirt, and refrain from wearing shorts. It’s acceptable to wear shoes

when walking around the compound of a Buddhist temple, but not inside the chapel where the

principal Buddha image is kept so remove them before entering.

26.7. Food:

Thai cuisine is the national cuisine of Thailand. Blending elements of several

Southeast Asian traditions, Thai cooking places emphasis on lightly prepared dishes with

strong aromatic components. Thai food is one of the tastiest culinary styles on the world.

Standard national favorites and local specialty dishes are all prepared from fresh ingredients,

which are purchased daily from the local market.

Thai cuisine is more accurately described as four regional cuisines corresponding to

the four main regions of the country: Northern, Northeastern (or Isan), Central, and Southern.

Each cuisine sharing similar foods or foods derived from those of neighboring countries and

regions: Burma to the northwest, the Chinese province of Yunnan and Laos to the north,

Vietnam and Cambodia to the east, Indonesia and Malaysia to the south of Thailand.

In addition to these four regional cuisines, there is also the Thai Royal Cuisine which

can trace its history back to the cosmopolitan palace cuisine of the Ayutthaya kingdom (1351–

1767 CE). If you prefer something a little closer to the taste of home, then every major city has

a selection of Western restaurants, as well as the typical fast food chains such as McDonalds

and KFC.

26.8. Dining Etiquette:

The people in Thailand pride themselves on their hospitality. As such, there is a good

chance that you will be invited to a meal. Whether this invitation involves going to a nice

restaurant or to someone’s home, make sure that you know the basics of dining etiquette

before you go.

Remove your shoes when you enter someone’s home. This also applies to some

restaurants, as well.

Avoid stepping directly on the threshold of someone’s home. Instead, step over the

threshold.

Most Thai food is eaten with a fork and spoon, not with chopsticks.

Some foods may be eaten with your fingers. Make sure you always use your right hand,

though, and never lick your fingers after eating.

Finishing all of the food on your plate indicates that you are still hungry. It is good

etiquette to leave a few bites, to show your host that you are full.

Seating is often arranged by social hierarchy, so it is best to wait for your host to

introduce you and tell you where to sit.


Page 37 of 53

While in a restaurant –

To attract a waiter, wave quietly with your palm down or say "Nong" (brother or sister).

Never snap your fingers or raise your voice to attract a waiter.

Thai food is eaten with a fork and a tablespoon rather than with chopsticks. The spoon

is held in the right hand and the bottom of the fork pushes the food into the spoon.

All Western hotels serve Western and continental cuisine for all meals.

Never drink tap water unless it is boiled. Avoid eating salads that haven't been washed

in purified water. Always peel fruit before eating.

Many Thai dishes are hot and spicy with herbs, lemon grass, and coriander, but most

are not especially aggressive. Food is always sweet, sour, hot, salty or spicy never

bland. Each region has its own specialties.

Food may be transferred to your rice bowl, where it can be mixed with rice. Rice is

eaten with almost every meal.

Leave a small amount of food on your plate when you have finished eating, to show you

are full. Place your spoon and fork on your plate at the 5:25 position to indicate you are

finished eating.

The host pays the bill. Never offer to split a bill in a restaurant.

26.9. Social Activities

In Thailand, there are plenty of opportunities for expatriates to involve themselves in

playing sports, eating, going to movies, attending Thai festivals and cultural events, and

socializing with your Thai colleagues and neighbors. Dating as it is popularly known in the

American culture will be noticeably absent. Your ability to adjust to and enjoy this kind of

social life will be an important aspect of your success as a Volunteer.

27. Entry in Thailand

Thai Visa is not needed for citizens of India. Permit to stay up to 15 days under the “Visa on

Arrival Rule”. Visa on Arrival is obtained at the designated immigration checkpoints and international

airports in Thailand. Travelers must submit application form, photos, proof of confirmed itinerary and

proof of funds. Currently, Siam Legal visa services for longer visits do not cover the citizens and

residents of India.

Applying for Work Permit: To apply for a work permit, you must have either a non-immigrant

visa or a residence permit. Ideally, you must also have a non-immigrant visa must be obtained

before entering Thailand. A residence permit is usually granted only after you have lived in

Thailand for at least 3 consecutive years under a non-immigrant visa.

Your employer or potential employer may file an application for advance permission for

permission to work before you arrive in Thailand. However, the work permit itself will not be

issued until you arrive in Thailand on a valid non-immigrant visa.


Page 38 of 53

If you will not be working in Bangkok, the application is to be filed at the nearest Provincial

(Changwat) Department of Employment Office. All supporting documents are required (usually)

to be translated into Thai with appropriate certification.

On the application form, the job description entry must be completed with a detailed

description of the job to be performed, how it is related to other employees, and what materials

will be used in the said job. If the job applied for requires a license under a particular law in

addition to the Alien Employment Act, a photocopy of such license, e.g., a teacher’s license,

physician’s license, press card from the Public Relations Department, certificate of missionary

status from the Religious Affairs Department, etc. must also be attached.

If you are married to a Thai national, the marriage certificate must be presented along

with your spouse’s identity card, birth certificates of children, household registration certificate,

and a photocopy of every page of your passport. If you are applying for a position previously

held by another foreigner, a photocopy of your predecessor’s work permit, together with his/her

notice of resignation from the company or a letter confirming his/her intended date of departure

must be presented.

27.1. Thai Immigration Requirements:

You must obtain a proper visa from a Royal Thai Embassy or Royal Thai Consulate

prior to your arrival in Thailand.

Note that foreigners from the countries listed below are permitted to obtain an entry visa

on their arrival at designated entry points in Thailand. An entry visa allows a stay of 15

days:

Bhutan, China (including Taiwan), Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, India,

Kazakhstan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Maldives, Mauritius, Oman, Poland,

Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, Slovakia, Slovenia, and Ukraine.

Meanwhile, foreigners from the countries listed below are exempted from visa

requirements. They are permitted to enter and stay in Thailand for 30 days without an

entry visa. However, these individuals must obtain an entry stamp on their passports at

the immigration checkpoint of entry.

27.2. List of 24 Immigration Checkpoints for Visa-On-Arrival:

S. No. Immigration checkpoints

1 Suvarna Bhumi International Airport, Bangkok

2 Chiangmai International Airport , Chiangmai

3 Phuket International Airport , Phuket

4 Hatyai International Airport , Songkla

5 U Tapao Airport , Rayong

6 Mae Sai Immigration Checkpoint, Chiengrai

7 Chieng Saen Immigration Checkpoint, Chiengrai

8 Chieng Khong Immigration Checkpoint, Chiengrai


Page 39 of 53

9 Betong Immigration Checkpoint , Yala

10 Sadoa Immigration Checkpoint , Songkla

11 Samui Airport , Surat Thani

12 Sukhothai International Airport, Tak Immigration Checkpoint

13 Bangkok Harbour Immigration Checkpoint, Bangkok

14 Sri Racha Immigration Checkpoint, Chonburi

15 Mabtaput Immigration Checkpoint , Rayong

16 Nong Khai Immigration Checkpoint, Nong Khai

17 Samui Immigration Checkpoint, Surat Thani

18 Phuket Immigration Checkpoint , Phuket

19 Satun Immigration Checkpoint , Satun

20 Krabi Immigration Checkpoint , Krabi

21 Songkhla Harbour Immigration Checkpoint, Songkhla

22 Chiangrai Airport Immigration Checkpoint, Chiangrai

23 Surat Thani Airport Immigration Checkpoint , Surat Thani

24 Don Mueang International Airport , Bangkok

It is better to get the Thai Visa in India itself to avoid any last minute problem or long VOA

queue at Bangkok Airport. Getting Thai visa in India is a really easy and hassle free process.

27.3. Penalties for Work Permit Violations

Working without a valid work permit is a criminal offense. Penalties include

imprisonment of not exceeding 5 years or a fine from Baht 2,000 to Baht 100,000, or both. In

the case you agree to travel out of Thailand within the period of time prescribed by the

interrogating officer, who must not be later than 30 days, the interrogating officer may impose

a fine and make arrangements for you to travel out of Thailand. Foreigners who do work

reserved solely for Thais will be fined of up to Baht 20,000. A company or employer that hires

a foreigner without a valid work permit is subject to a fine from Baht 10,000 to Baht 100,000

for each foreign worker/employee.

Therefore, you must always have a photocopy of his/her work permit available when

traveling, and be prepared to show it upon arrival in Thailand.

28. Living Conditions

Thailand is a fairly well developed nation, certainly better developed than its neighbors Laos,

Vietnam, Myanmar and Cambodia. This level of development means that although Thailand is still far

behind the Western world in the form of public amenities, telecommunications, public services and

transportation, it does still provide every modern convenience required to live a full, comfortable and

modern life.

Possibly the main attraction of becoming an expat and moving to Thailand, is the increased

spending power of your money, when converting from your own currency, to the Thai Baht. Typically

most things will be one fifth to one quarter of the price that you are used too paying at home, with

http://www.thaiembassy.com/thailand/work-permit-thailand.php


Page 40 of 53

some items costing far less. Put simply, a person with even a modest pension or other form of

residual income will find they can live a very comfortable life in Thailand on these minimal funds.

29. Accommodation

Following are the indicative rent figures prevailing in Thailand.

Accommodation Type Average Rents in THB Range

Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre 14,541 8,000 – 22,473

Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Cities 7,437 4,000 – 10,000

Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre 37,058 25,000 – 60,000

Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Cities 17,867 10,000 – 30,000

30. Working Condition

Foreigners are allowed to work in Thailand if you have a valid visa, a work permit and are

employed with an occupation that does not violate the Alien Employment Act. Foreigners intending to

work in Thailand are subject to the Alien Employment Act, which requires you to have a work permit to

be issued by the Department of Employment, Ministry of Labor, or unless it falls within an exception of

the said Act.

The term “work” in Thai law is defined very broadly, covering both physical and mental

activities, whether or not for wages and other form of compensation. Even volunteer or charity work

requires a work permit in Thailand.

According to Thai law, foreigners can work in the country but factors such as the national

security, as well as the need of alien labor for the development of the country are being considered.

Thai nationals are given priority.

Under the Alien Employment Act, the following occupations are closed to foreigners and are

reserved for Thai nationals only:

Labor work except labor work in fishing boats under the next category below.

Agriculture, animal husbandry, forestry or fishery, except work requiring specialized

knowledge, farm supervision, or labor work in fishing boats, particularly marine fishery.

Bricklaying, carpentry, or other construction work.

Wood carving.

Driving motor vehicles or vehicles which do not use machinery or mechanical devices, except

piloting international aircraft.

Front shop sale.

Auction sale work.

Supervising, auditing, or giving service in accountancy, except occasional internal auditing.

Cutting or polishing precious or semi-precious stones.

Haircutting, hairdressing, or beautification.

Cloth weaving by hand.


Page 41 of 53

Mat weaving or making utensils from reed, rattan, jute, hay, or bamboo.

Making rice paper by hand.

Lacquer work.

Making Thai musical instruments.

Niello work.

Goldsmith, silversmith, or gold-and-copper alloy smith work.

Stone work.

Making Thai dolls.

Making mattresses or quilts.

Making alms bowls.

Making silk products by hand.

Making Buddha images.

Knife making.

Making paper or cloth umbrellas.

Making shoes.

Making hats.

Brokerage or agency except in international trading.

Professional civil engineering concerning design and calculation, systemization, analysis,

planning, testing, construction supervision, or consulting services, excluding work

requiring specialized techniques.

Professional architectural work concerning design, drawing-making, cost estimation, or

consulting services.

Dressmaking.

Pottery.

Cigarette rolling by hand.

Tour guiding or conducting.

Hawking of goods.

Thai typesetting by hand.

Unwinding and twisting silk by hand.

Clerical or secretarial work.

Providing legal services or engaging in legal work (except arbitration work sand work relating

to defense of cases at arbitration level, provided the law governing the dispute under

consideration by the arbitrators is not Thai law)s

31. Unionization

Workers and/or Employees in Thailand may form a labor union and may start operation after

the issuance of license from the Register of the Department of Labor Protection and Welfare. Persons

having the following qualifications can only form a labor union:

Must be Thai nationals employed by the same employer or engaged in the same type

of activity in the same province. Foreigners are prohibited from such activities.


Page 42 of 53

Must be 20 years of age and over

Labor Union must have at least 10 promoters

32. Transportation - Commuting in Thailand

The transportation system in Thailand is good and convenient. One can travel to and from sites

to other towns, including Bangkok, via air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned buses or, on a few

regional routes, by trains (with sleepers), or airlines.

Transport within towns is typically by covered pickups with two rows of seats or by bicycle. The

Peace Corps provides a mountain bike and bicycle helmet to every Volunteer for travel to offices and

schools, for errands, and for pleasure, and trainees and Volunteers are expected to be comfortable

riding a bicycle for short to moderate distances.

Motorbikes: Those in a hurry can use motorcycle taxis to beat the jams. Fares are about the

same as taking the tuk-tuk. But be forewarned that riding a motorcycle taxi on the main thoroughfares

can be a little dangerous, although they are a perfectly safe and pleasant solution in the sois (lane or

secondary streets) where Bangkok retains a village-like atmosphere. Some of the motorcycle taxis

provide a helmet for their passengers though.

Taxis: Taxis are without doubt the cheapest of any major city in the world and it is virtually

impossible to spend more than 100 baht on any journey of half an hour or less. There is a minimum

meter charge of 35 baht. Getting a taxi is usually quite easy apart from during peak commute hours

and when bars are closing between 1am and 2am.

Private Cars & Vans: You can rent a car or van if you want a comfortable and safe way of

transport. International car rental companies have branches in Bangkok and other major cities. The

rental rates are between B. 1,500 – 15.000 per day and B. 9,000 – 20,000 per week, depending on

the car brand. Do note that you must have a valid international license if you are doing the driving

yourself.

BTS (Bangkok Mass Transit System): Bangkok’s answer to traffic jams along its key stops

offers two routes at the moment and cover the two main commercial areas: Sukhumvit line (from Mo

chit to On Nut) and the Silom line (from National Stadium to Saphan Taksin Bridge). Running from 6

a.m. to midnight, the fare depends on distance traveled, ranging from 10 – 40 baht/person. For

frequent riders, it would be best to buy a stored value card, ranging from 440 – 800 baht/person that

would ensure you a multiple trips at a flat rate of 20 baht per trip regardless of the destination.

SUBWAY (Bangkok Mass Rapid Transit): Bangkok’s newest mass transit system, the

subway, was inaugurated in July 2004. With fares ranging from 14 – 36 baht, the subway run from the

city’s main railway station, Hua Lampong, under two major thoroughfares, Rama 4 Road and

Ratchadaphisak Road.

Skytrain: By far the most comfortable, scenic and environmentally-friendly way to travel in

Bangkok is by the incredible Skytrain, an elevated rail network that soars above the chaos of the city’s

noisy and fume-laden traffic jams. It’s quick, efficient, clean and inexpensive – and offers the

additional benefits of air-conditioning and wonderful views of Bangkok which you would otherwise


Page 43 of 53

never see. Trains run regularly from 6am until midnight throughout most of the modern part of the city,

and there are plans underway to extend the service very shortly to the outlying areas of the city and to

the airport. Numerous types of pass are available and for 120 baht a day you get unlimited travel on

the whole Skytrain network – information booths show details of discounted tourist passes and

provide network maps. You may wish to equip yourself with 5B and 10B coins as these are needed if

using the automatic ticket machines, although change is readily available from manned booths from

6am until midnight.

Tuk-tuks: Tuk tuks cost twice as much but are an experience that must be tried at least once! It

can be difficult getting a fair price for a ride in one of these open-ended three-wheeled motorized

rickshaws as their drivers are experts in the art of spotting innocent tourists and will often quote a high

fare, or alternatively insist they take you on a very cheap sightseeing tour which will result in your

purchasing overpriced goods for which they’ll receive a commission from the shopkeeper. Don’t rest

your feet on the rail near the driver’s head as this is considered to be very disrespectful.

Trains: State Railway of Thailand (SRT), originally founded as Royal State Railways of Siam

has 4,431 kilometers of meter gauge railway tracks not including mass transit lines in Bangkok. All

national rail services are managed by the State Railway of Thailand. The four main lines are the

Northern Line, which terminates in Chiang Mai, the Northeastern Line, which terminates at Ubon

Ratchathani and the Lao border in Nong Khai Province, the Eastern Line, which terminates at the

Cambodian border in Sa Kaeo Province, and the Southern Line, which terminates at the Malaysian

border in Yala and Narathiwat Provinces.

Buses: One can save a fair bit of money by making use of the public bus system, and they are

comfortable as many buses on the main routes are air-conditioned. A non-air-conditioned ride costs

around 6 baht, while adding just another 5 baht lets you travel in air-conditioned comfort. Routes are

numbered and indicated on most tourist maps. However, you are advised to guard your belongings

when traveling on buses as they tend to be very crowded. There are also micro buses which charge a

uniform fare of 25 baht and accommodate a maximum of 30 passengers. Euro buses are also in

service and theses between 10 and 18 baht.

Boats: The most pleasant way to get around Bangkok is undoubtedly the shuttle boats plying

Bangkok’s waterways. They are faster and much more interesting. Although many of the klongs

(canals) have been paved over, there are still a number of routes to be savored, e.g. along the Chao

Phraya River and the adjoining canals. Fares range from 6 – 10 baht.

Airplanes: Traveling around Thailand is a delight with booking domestic flights operated by

Thai Airways International, Bangkok Airways, Nok Air, Air Asia and Orient Thai.

Airport Buses: Four bus services ply the city and airport for the convenience of travelers to

and from Suvarnabhumi Airport. They are:

Service A1, Airport-Silom Road

Service A2, Airport-Sanam Luang (Grand Palace)

Service A3, Airport-Sukhumvit 55 (Soi Thong Lo),

Service A4, Airport-Bangkok Railway Station (Hua Lampong)


Page 44 of 53

33. Educational Facilities

Nine years of public education is mandatory in Thailand. Although a pre-school education is not

obligatory, many Thai children attend a kindergarten. After that, they go to primary school for six years

and to a lower-level secondary school for another three years. When the mandatory schooling is over,

they have the opportunity to move on to upper secondary education. This is provided by either an

academic institution or one that focuses on vocational training.

Formal education consists of at least twelve years of basic education, and higher education.

Basic education is divided into six years of primary education and six years of secondary education,

the latter being further divided into three years of lower- and upper-secondary levels. Kindergarten

levels of pre-primary education, also part of the basic education level, span 2–3 years depending on

the locale, and are variably provided. Non-formal education is also supported by the state.

Independent schools contribute significantly to the general education infrastructure.

Education in Thailand is provided mainly by the Thai government through the Ministry of

Education from pre-school to senior high school. A free basic education of twelve years is guaranteed

by the constitution, and a minimum of nine years' school attendance is mandatory. Administration and

control of public and private universities are carried out by the Office of Higher Education

Commission, a department of the Ministry of Education.

International Schools – Currently there are 90 international schools operate in the Kingdom of

Thailand, of which 65 are located in the Bangkok Metropolitan Area. The language of instruction is

either English or their mother tongue. All international schools are also required to instruct their

students in the Thai language and Thai culture. That way, expat children still gain an insight into their

host country’s language and culture.

34. Medical Facilities

Overall, Thailand Is a fairly clean country and few travelers experience anything more than an

upset stomach. Urban Thailand is malaria free. There are three university research hospitals, about a

dozen private and public hospitals as well as hundreds of medical clinics serving locals and tourists

alike. Three hospitals offering a comprehensive range of services including Bangkok General Hospital

on New Phetchaburi, the Bangkok Nursing Home on Convent Road and the Chao Phraya Hospital on

Baromratchachonni Road.

Despite the higher expenses, expatriates indeed prefer private medical services providers, the

quality of whose care is often excellent. Public hospitals, on the other hand, tend to be understaffed

and underfunded. When you choose a clinic, ask whether they have a family doctor for consultations.

There is a shortage of general practitioners in Thailand, but you may prefer not to consult a specialist

for every complaint.

If you need an ambulance and would like to avoid a government clinic, do not phone 191 (the

general emergency number in Thailand). Instead, call the hospital of your choice directly. Below,

there’s a contact list of four local hospitals that are especially popular in the expatriate community.

Bumrungrad Hospital


Page 45 of 53

33 Sukhumvit 3 (Soi Nana Nua)

Wattana Bangkok 10110

+66 2 667 1000

Bangkok Nursing Home Hospital

9/1 Convent Road

Silom Bangrak Bangkok 10500

+66 2 686 2700

Samitivej Hospital (Srinakarin)

488 Srinakarin Road

Suanluang Bangkok 10250

+66 2378-9000

Samitivej Hospital (Sukhumvit)

133 Sukhumvit 49

Klong Tan Nua

Wattana Bangkok 10110

+66 2711-8000

Thailand’s national health insurance plans do not always include expats, and they don’t cover

high-quality private healthcare, either. Therefore most expats take out a private insurance policy. No

matter where you are insured, make sure to have your insurance papers and enough cash at hand

when you go and see a doctor at a clinic. Unless it’s an emergency, you are usually expected to pay

upfront and be reimbursed by your insurance later.

While merely consulting a doctor costs at least 700 to 1,000 THB, a private clinic with an

international department may require you to make a large deposit in advance before staying for

stationary treatment.

35. Public Holidays

Public holidays in Thailand are regulated by the government, and most are observed by both

the public and private sectors. There are usually sixteen public holidays in a year, but more may be

declared by the Cabinet.

The actual number of holidays for the individual is determined by the nature of the organization

for which she works i.e. public, private, institutions governed by the Bank of Thailand or state-owned

enterprises (excluding financial institutions). On average workers for the first three groups are entitled

to fourteen holidays while state-owned enterprise workers enjoy up to fifteen holidays (or more). If a

holiday falls on a weekend, one following workday is observed as a compensatory non-workday. The

Bank of Thailand regulates bank holidays, which differ slightly from those observed by the

government. Other observances, official and non-official, local and international, are observed in

varying degrees throughout the country

The following dates are observed as public holidays in Thailand:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holiday

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Libya


Page 46 of 53

Date Name Local name Remarks

1 January New Year's Day (Wan Khuen Pi Mai) Celebrates beginning of the solar and

Gregorian year. From 1889–1941, this

was held on 1 April.

Full moon, 3rd

Thai lunar

month

(February)

Magha Puja (Wan Makha Bucha) Buddhist observance commemorating

the Buddha's teaching of Ovada

Patimokkha.

6 April Chakri Memorial

Day

(Wan Chakkri) Commemorates the establishment of

the Chakri Dynasty and the founding of

Bangkok by King Buddha Yodfa

Chulaloke in 1782. Officially known as

King Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke the

Great Day and Chakri Dynasty

Memorial Day.

13 April till 15

April

Songkran

Festival

(Wan Songkran) Traditional Thai new year, and prime

holiday of the year; many people return

home for family reunions during this

period. The first day is known as (Wan

Maha Songkran), the second as (Wan

Nao), and the third as (Wan Thaloeng

Sok). The 14th is also observed as

Family Day.

5 May Coronation Day (Wan Chattra

Mongkhon)

Commemorates the coronation of King

Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1950.

May, arbitrary

date

Royal Ploughing

Ceremony and

Farmer's Day

(Wan Phuetcha

Mongkhon)

Ceremony giving blessing to the

country's farmers. Officially known as

(Wan Phra Ratcha Phithi Phuetcha

Monkhon Lae Charot Phra Nangkhan

Raek Na Khwan). Also observed as

Farmer's Day. Each year's date is

astrologically determined and

announced by the Bureau of the Royal

House Hold.

Full moon, 6th

Thai lunar

month (May)

Vesak (Wan Wisakha

Bucha)

Buddhist observance commemorating

the birth, enlightenment and passing of

the Buddha. Also observed as National

Tree Day.

Full moon, 8th

Thai lunar

month (July)

Asalha Puja (Wan Asanha Bucha) Buddhist observance commemorating

the Buddha's first discourse, the

Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_Year%27s_Day

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thai_solar_calendar

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gregorian_calendar

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Full_moon

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thai_lunar_calendar

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thai_lunar_calendar

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magha_Puja

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhism

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gautama_Buddha

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chakri_Dynasty

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bangkok

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddha_Yodfa_Chulaloke

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddha_Yodfa_Chulaloke

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Songkran_(Thailand)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Family_Day

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coronation_Day

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coronation

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhumibol_Adulyadej

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Ploughing_Ceremony

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Royal_Ploughing_Ceremony

http://www.brh.thaigov.net/new-site/index.php

http://www.brh.thaigov.net/new-site/index.php

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vesak

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asalha_Puja

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhammacakkappavattana_Sutta


Page 47 of 53

Date Name Local name Remarks

First waning

moon, 8th Thai

lunar month

(July)

Beginning of

Vassa

(Wan Khao Phansa) Buddhist observance marking the

beginning of Vassa, also known as

Buddhist Lent

12 August HM the Queen's

Birthday

(Wan Chaloem Phra

Chonmaphansa

Somdet Phra Nang

Chao Phra Boromma

Rachini Nat)

Commemorates the birthday of Queen

Sirikit in 1932; also observed as

National Mother's Day (Wan Mae

Haeng Chat).

23 October Chulalongkorn

Day

(Wan Piya Maharat) Commemorates the passing of King

Chulalongkorn in 1910.

5 December HM the King's

Birthday

(Wan Chaloem Phra

Chonmaphansa Phra

Bat Somdet Phra

Chao Yu Hua)

Commemorates the birthday of King

Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1927. Also

observed as National Day and National

Father's Day.

10 December Constitution Day (Wan Rattha

Thammanun)

Commemorates the promulgation of

the first permanent constitution in 1932.

31 December New Year's Eve (Wan Sin Pi) Final day of the Gregorian year.

1 Shawwal in

the Islamic

calendar

Eid ul-Fitr Muslim holiday celebrating the end of

the fasting month of Ramadan.

Observed by government units in

Narathiwat, Pattani, Yala and Satun

Provinces.

10 Dhu al-

Hijjah in the

Islamic

calendar

Eid al-Adha Muslim holiday commemorating the

willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his

son Ismael as an act of obedience to

Allah. Observed by government units in

Narathiwat, Pattani, Yala and Satun

Provinces.

36. Communication Network

Postal Mail: Thailand has a relatively reliable postal system, and every sub-district and district town

has a post office. In addition to offering routine postal services, some offices are equipped with postal

box rentals, overseas telephone facilities, and express mail services. Regular mail within Thailand

usually takes two or three days, while express mail takes one to one-and-a-half days. International

mail to and from Thailand takes about two weeks.

Major Mobile Network Operators are: AIS 3G, DTAC Trinet, Truemove-H (True Corp), MY (CAT

Telecom), TOT3G (Telephone Organization of Thailand).

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vassa

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sirikit

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sirikit

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mother%27s_Day

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chulalongkorn

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chulalongkorn



http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Day

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Father%27s_Day

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_Day

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Constitution_of_Thailand#1932_Constitution

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shawwal

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islamic_calendar

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Islamic_calendar

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_ul-Fitr

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muslim_holiday

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ramadan

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Narathiwat_Province

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pattani_Province

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yala_Province

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satun_Province

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhu_al-Hijjah

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dhu_al-Hijjah

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Adha

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abraham

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ishmael

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Allah

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CAT_Telecom


Page 48 of 53

Telephones: Public telephone booths that accept both coins (one baht for local calls) and phone

cards are available in almost all towns. If a booth is not available, private homes often offer telephone

facilities for a reasonable charge, typically a minimal flat fee plus the Telephone Authority of Thailand

(TAT) per-minute rate, which depends on the destination and length of the call.

International Dialing Code

Thailand: +66

Major Fixed Line Operators are:

TOT (Telephone Organization of Thailand),

True Corporation, and

TT&T

Cellphones: Cellphone systems in Thailand use frequencies of 800, 900, or 1800 megahertz, but 900

is the most effective for up-country sites. Other frequencies may not work in Thailand. Cellphones,

which are extremely popular in Thailand, can be purchased for as little as 2,000 baht (approximately

$50).

Mobile Network Operators

AIS/AIS 3G,

DTAC/DTAC Trinet,

Truemove/Truemove-H (True Corp),

MY (CAT Telecom),

TOT3G (Telephone Organization of Thailand).

Virtual Mobile Network Operators

TRUE MOVE H MVNO

i-mobile Plus MVNO

365 3G MVNO

IEC3G MVNO

mojo3G MVNO

i-kool Real 3G

Computer, Internet, and E-mail Access: Shops that provide Internet and e-mail access exist in

cities throughout Thailand, even in rural districts. The cost for access is 15 to 20 baht (less than $1)

per hour.

Major Voice over IP (VoIP) Operators:

CAT2Call (CAT Telecom)

TrueNetTalk (True Corporation)

Mouthmun (Jasmine Internet)

DeeCall (SawasdeeSHOP)


Page 49 of 53

37. Connectivity to India

Air connectivity between India and Thailand is growing with nearly 140 flights per week, reflects

rapidly growing passenger traffic between the two countries. Bangkok is connected by air to 9 Indian

destinations.

37.1. Airports:

There are about 48 Airports (servicing domestic and international commercial airlines)

in Thailand. The 6 major international airports are managed by Airports of Thailand Public

Company Ltd. AOT operates the following 6 major airports in Thailand:

Suvarnabhumi Airport (International), nearby Bangkok

Don Mueang International Airport, nearby Bangkok

Phuket International Airport

Chiang Mai International Airport

Hat Yai International Airport

Mae Fah Luang–Chiang Rai International Airport

37.2. Highways:

India and Thailand are cooperating closely on improving regional connectivity through

initiatives such as India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral Highway, part of Asian Highway Network

(under UNESCAP), BTILS under BIMSTEC framework, is also expected to start soon.

The trilateral highway will start from Moreh in Manipur to Mae Sot in Thailand, via

Myanmar - conceived at the trilateral ministerial meeting on transport linkages in Yangon in

April 2002.

38. Do’s and Don’ts

38.1. Do’s

All NRIs/PIOs must register with the Indian Embassy through online facility.

Passport is a valuable document. It should always be kept, either in your own

custody, or in the custody of a person duly authorized by you. It must not be altered

or mutilated in any way. If lost or destroyed, the fact and circumstances should be

immediately reported to the nearest Indian Mission and to the local police.

Please keep a photocopy of your Passport in a safe place. Without this, issuance of a

duplicate Passport in case of loss/damage/theft may be delayed. It is also useful to

email a scanned copy of your Passport and Visa to yourself.

Please check the expiry date of your Passport on receiving it for the first time and

remember to get your Passport renewed well in advance of the expiry date.

An Applicant has the option to apply for an ordinary Passport booklet of 36 pages or

Jumbo Passport booklet of 60 pages with ten year validity. The option should be

clearly indicated in the application itself.


Page 50 of 53

Documents in Arabic should be accompanied by typed English translation from

authorized translator.

Supportive documents like Marriage Certificate, Birth Certificate, Affidavits, etc.

should have been pre-attested in India by the Ministry of External Affairs, New Delhi.

The validity of a Passport can be extended up to 10 years from the date of issue, in

case a person is holding a short validity Passport. No fee is charged for such

extension of a short validity Passport.

Please keep a margin of 45days for issuance of a new Passport from the date of

Application.

38.2. Don’ts

Do not give false information in the Passport Application Form. It is an offense under

the Passports Act 1967 to give false information in the Application Form. Passport

facilities can be denied on grounds of suppression of factual information, submission

of false particulars, willful damage of Passport and for making unauthorized changes

in the Passports.

Do not hold more than one valid passport. It is an offence to hold more than one valid

Passport at a time. Those Indian citizens acquiring citizen ship/Passport of another

country should immediately, surrender their Indian Passport to the nearest Indian

Embassy/Consulate.

Don’t offer alcoholic drinks to an Arab, unless you’re certain that he drinks alcohol.

This can cause great offence.

Don’t walk on a prayer mat or in front of any person at prayer and try not to stare at

people who are praying.

Don’t try to enter a mosque without first asking permission. It’s unlikely that you will

be allowed in.

Don’t try to enter the Holy sites or mosques. The roads are well signposted to notify

everybody of this restriction. If a non-Muslim is found within the prohibited areas, he’s

likely to be assaulted and will be afforded no protection against the assailants.

Avoid blasphemy.

Avoid putting a local in a position where he might suffer a ‘loss of face’ in front of

other Locals.

Don’t beckon to people with a finger, as this is considered particularly impolite.

Thailandns might use such a gesture to summon a dog.

Avoid shouting and displays of aggression or drunkenness at all times, as such

behavior is rarely tolerated.

During Ramadan, don’t eat, drink or smoke anywhere where you can be seen by

Muslims during the hours of daylight and don’t engage in any noisy behavior or

embrace or kiss anyone in public.


Page 51 of 53

39. Indian Embassy Location:

Embassy of India – Bangkok, Kingdom of Thailand

46, Prasarnmitr, Sukhumvit, Soi 23

Bangkok 10110

Telephone: +66-02-2580300-5

Fax: +66-02-2584627 / 2621740

Email Contacts:





Consulate of India – Chiang Mai, Kingdom of Thailand



Telephone: +66-(0)-53-243066

Fax: +66-(0)-53-247879


Consul & Head of Post +66-(0)-53-242469

Assistant +66-(0)-53-243066

Personal Assistant +66-(0)-53-242469

(Jurisdiction of Consulate of India, Chiang Mai: Chiangmai, Chiangrai, Lampang, Lamphun,

Mae Hong Son, Parae, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun, Sukhothai, Tad Uttradit, Phayao, Nakhon

Sawan, Kampengphet, Pichit and Utthai Thani)

39.1. Timings:

Consular services are available from Monday to Friday (except holidays)

09:00 am to 12:00pm - Submission of Applications for attestation & OCI/PIO services at

the Indian Embassy

3:00 pm to 4:30 pm - Delivery of Consular Documents at the Embassy

39.2. Passport Related Services:

General Instructions for Applicants

All applications should be filled in with full details. Incomplete applications would be

rejected.

All applications must be accompanied by photocopies of their current passports.

All photocopied documents must be self-attested by the applicants. In case of minors

below, 18 years, their parents must attest the photocopies.

Photos submitted for all types of passport services must be recent (less than 3 months)

and size: 3.5 cm x 3.5 cm and blue background only.

Applicants must check all entries in Passport application forms before submission. It is

the responsibility of applicant to give correct details, spelling etc.







Page 52 of 53

Embassy can call any applicant for interview, in case documents are not in order,

details are missing, etc.

All applications must be submitted with their Original Work Permit/Tangdeo (Alien

Certificate)/Permanent Residence Permit with photocopy. In case of children, their

parents Work Permit/Tangdeo (Alien Certificate)/Permanent Residence Permit with

photocopy must be submitted.

Applicants are responsible for details mentioned in application.

Applicants are liable for legal action if they provide false information.

Passport & Visa: All Passports related applications should be submitted at the address given

below:

Indian Visa and Passport Application Centre (managed by IVS GLOBAL Pvt. Ltd.)

Address: 22nd floor, B

Building name: 253 Asoke.

Opp: Rutnin Eye Hospital,

Sukhumvit, Soi 21, Bangkok

Tel: 026641200

Fax: 026641201


Website: www.indiavisathai.com

Working Hours:

Submission of applications – 08:30 am – 02:00 pm

Delivery of documents – 04:30 – 05:30

Note: In case of emergency, please contact Embassy at + 66 -22580300-06, +66-

22580307, +66- 22604166 and +66-819235486

[A] RENEWAL OF PASSPORT OF ADULTS

Documents required:

Passport Application Form signed by the applicant and photograph pasted at the space

provided.

Two additional photographs.

Original Passports with photocopy of all pages of personal particulars and current visa

page.

Original Work Permit/Tangdeo (Alien Certificate)/Permanent Residence Permit with

photocopy.

Authority letter if applicant cannot come personally.

Processing time:

Six working days if Passport issued from Bangkok.

Two to six weeks if passport issued by any other authority.


http://www.indiavisathai.com/


Page 53 of 53

Fee:

Baht 2,400 + Service charge of Baht 70 per applicant

IVS Fee Baht - 15 per applicant.

[B] DUPLICATE PASSPORT

Documents required:

Passport Application Form signed by the applicant and photograph pasted at the space

provided.

Four additional photographs

Original Passports with photocopy of all pages of personal particulars and current visa

page.

Original Work Permit/Tangdeo (Alien Certificate)/Permanent Residence Permit with

photocopy.

Covering letter giving details how the passport was lost/damaged.

Police complaint in original along with English translation - for lost passport.

In case of damaged passport, submit the same in original.

Photocopy of lost or damaged passport.

Original work permit/Tangdeo (Alien Certificate)/Residence Permit with photocopy.

Processing time:

Up to six working days-If earlier passport issued from Bangkok.

Up to six weeks if passport issued by any other authority.

Fee:

Baht 4800 + Service charge of Baht 70 per applicant

IVS Fee Baht 15per applicant

39.3. Other Passport Services Available

New Passport for Newborn Child with Birth Registration

Extension of Validity

Endorsement of Spouse Name

Deletion of Spouse Name

Change of name of child

Change of name of Adult

Change of Address

Passport Genuineness Certificate

General Instructions

Miscellaneous Categories

Renewal of passport of minors

-x-x-x-

http://www.indianembassy.in.th/images/download/EAP-I.pdf