A Work Permit is not just for show but is crucial for foreigners working in Thailand. It's proof that the foreigner is legally allowed to work in the country, verified by government authorities. In order to prevent legal penalties, the holder who has lost or damaged a work permit must submit to the Department of Employment's guidelines within 15 days of becoming aware of it. It's not as difficult a process as you may think. Lawyer V-Work Company has prepared detailed information to guide you through this process.

Documents Required for Applying for a Replacement Work Permit

  1. In case of a lost Work Permit
    • Foreigner must complete the TorTor.4 application form
    • Police report of the lost Work Permit
    • 3 recent passport-sized photos (3x4 cm) of the foreigner, taken within the last 6 months
    • Passport or Certificate of Residence and Alien Registration Certificate with 1 copy each
    • Copy of the Work Permit (if available)
    • Power of attorney from the foreigner with a 10 baht duty stamp and a copy
    • ID card of the attorney (if the foreigner/employee is not submitting the documents in person)
    • Pay 100 baht for the application fee and 150 baht for the replacement Work Permit
  2. In case of a damaged Work Permit
    • Foreigner must complete the TorTor.4 application form as in the case of a lost Work Permit
    • Original damaged Work Permit with 1 copy
    • 3 recent passport-sized photos (3x4 cm) of the foreigner, taken within the last 6 months
    • Power of attorney from the foreigner with a 10 baht duty stamp and a copy
    • ID card of the attorney (if the foreigner/employee is not submitting the documents in person)
    • Pay 100 baht for the application fee and 150 baht for the replacement Work Permit

Note: The documents required for both lost and damaged Work Permits are similar but not identical. Employers or foreign Work Permit holders should prepare all necessary documents to ensure a smooth and quick replacement process. Either the employer or the foreign employee can apply for the replacement Work Permit, depending on what's most convenient.

Steps to Take When Your Work Permit is Lost or Damaged

  1. This step can be done before preparing documents for a replacement Work Permit. The foreign employee must report the lost Work Permit at the nearest local police station. It's necessary to specify the lost Work Permit number in the police report.
  2. After filing the report, you'll receive a document confirming the report of the lost Work Permit from the police. Then, prepare other necessary documents as specified in the information above.
  3. Once ready, contact the Department of Employment officials in the area where your workplace is located.
  4. Wait for the officials to verify the details of your application and all documents for the replacement Work Permit to ensure they are complete and correct. If the police report and all documents are in order, the officials will proceed to issue a replacement Work Permit.

If a foreigner changes their name or surname without losing or damaging their work permit?

They must quickly request an amendment at the Immigration Bureau. Required documents: 1. Completed amendment form 2. Original work permit and copy 3. Passport copy 4. Power of attorney with 10 baht stamp 5. Authorized representative's ID copy This also applies to changes in nationality, address, or workplace.

Guidelines and Precautions for Foreign Employees in Thailand

  • Foreigners working within the Kingdom of Thailand must always carry their Work Permit with them in case officials conduct an inspection. (Violators are subject to a fine not exceeding 10,000 baht)
  • Foreigners must only work as permitted. If they engage in other work or change their place of work, they must receive permission first. (Anyone who violates this law will be fined not more than 100,000 baht.)
  • Before the work permit expires, if you still want to work, you can apply to renew your work permit in advance to continue your original work. (Anyone who violates this law is punishable by imprisonment not exceeding 3 months or a fine not exceeding 5,000 baht.)
  • If the work permit is damaged or lost, you must apply for a replacement work permit within 15 days from the date of knowledge. (Anyone who violates this law will be fined not more than 500 baht.)
  • According to the investment promotion law or other related laws, if a foreigner receives an extension of working hours, they must notify officials within 30 days from the date of receipt. (Anyone who violates this law will be fined not more than 500 baht.)
  • Foreigners working in the Kingdom of Thailand without a work permit are guilty of a legal offense. (Whoever violates this law is punishable by imprisonment not exceeding 5 years or a fine from 2,000 to 100,000 baht, or both.)

Lawyer V-Work: Comprehensive Work Permit Services for Foreign Nationals

Lawyer V-Work specializesspecializing in work permit processing, work permit applications for foreigners.We offer a full range of services, including obtaining new work permits for first-time applicants, renewing expired permits, and facilitating replacement permits in various situations. Our One-Stop Service ensures transparency and legal compliance at every step. Clients can track progress throughout the process. For more information, contact us via LINE: @v-work.