THAILAND: Single Window System for Work Permits and Visas Implemented Early

August 14, 2018


Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) now requires BOI-promoted companies applying for work permits or long-term visas at the Bangkok One-Stop Service Centre (OSSC), or in Chiang Mai or Phuket, to submit applications via its new Single Window online system for streamlined initial and renewal work permit and visa applications.

The implementation date was brought forward from 2 October 2018 to 31 July 2018. In all other provinces, applications must still be made with hardcopy supporting documents and old-style work permit booklets will still be issued.

How does it work?

The so-called Single Window system, the successor to the e-Expert system, replaces the previous hardcopy work permit booklet with a new Thailand Digital Work Permit, which is accessible via a smartphone app.

Applications require fewer supporting documents to be provided in hardcopy, although processing times may not be any faster than under the previous system.

BOI-promoted companies who already have a user ID and password for the e-Expert system can now use these to access the Single Window system. New BOI-promoted companies must first register their details to obtain a user ID and password.

Our Advice

  • BOI-promoted companies are advised to register on the BOI website for training on the new system.
  • Guidance for using the new system is also available in Thai here.
  • BOI-promoted companies employing foreign nationals should expect some delays as the new system is implemented.

For general advice and information on immigration and business travel to Thailand, please email us at [email protected]