Teaching in Thailand: Required Documents

If you're considering teaching in Thailand, there are specific documents you'll need to prepare and present to the Thai authorities and potential employers. This webpage provides an overview of the essential documents required for teaching in Thailand.

1. Passport and Visa

a) Passport:

• Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Thailand.

• Make copies of the passport's information page.

b) Visa:

• Obtain the appropriate visa for employment, such as a Non-Immigrant B Visa, either before or after entering Thailand. This visa is necessary for obtaining a work permit.

2. Work Permit

In order to legally work in Thailand, you'll need a work permit. To apply for a work permit, you'll need the following:

a) Non-Immigrant B Visa:

• The original Non-Immigrant B Visa obtained from a Thai embassy or consulate outside Thailand.

b) Letter of Employment:

• An official letter from your employer in Thailand stating your position, salary, and duration of employment.

c) Contract of Employment:

• A signed contract with your employer outlining the terms and conditions of your employment.

d) Educational Qualifications:

• Copies of your educational certificates and degrees, which may need to be legalized or notarized.

e) Criminal Background Check:

• A clear criminal background check from your home country or a Thai police clearance certificate.

3. Qualifications and Certifications

a) Bachelor's Degree:

• A copy of your bachelor's degree certificate or its equivalent.

• If you want to transfer your visa inside Thailand, this will need to be legalised/certified before travelling.  

b) TEFL/TESOL Certification:

• A Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) or Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) certificate is highly beneficial.

4. Medical Documents

Medical Certificate:

• A medical certificate from a recognized medical institution stating that you're in good health and free from contagious diseases.  Obtainable at all hospitals within Thailand.

5. Passport-Sized Photos

• Several recent passport-sized photos for various applications.

6. References and Recommendations

a) Professional References:

• Letters of recommendation from previous employers or colleagues.

b) Contact Information:

• Contact details of individuals who can vouch for your professional qualifications and character.

7. Additional Documentation

a) Contact Information:

• Your contact information, including an address in Thailand, phone number, and email.

b) Teaching Philosophy:

• A brief statement outlining your teaching philosophy and approach.

Prepare these documents in advance to streamline the application process and increase your chances of securing a teaching position in Thailand. It's advisable to verify specific requirements with the Thai embassy or consulate in your home country before traveling to Thailand.