What type of visa/work permit do I need to legally volunteer at a school in Thailand?

last updated 25th January 2010

This seems to be something of a grey area. Technically I would say that even a volunteer teacher would need a work permit, but having looked at several volunteer program websites, no mention is made of a work permit at all. But that’s not to say you absolutely don’t need one. Perhaps some programs have a special waiver if it’s for a duration of say two or three months. I think the work permit question needs to be aimed specifically at the company you intend to volunteer for.

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Ajarn.com was started as a small hobby website in 1999 by Ian McNamara. It was a simple way for one Bangkok teacher to share his Thailand experiences and pass on advice. The website developed a loyal and enthusiastic following. In 2004, Ian handed over the reins to Phil Williams and 'Bangkok Phil' has run the ajarn website ever since.

Ajarn.com has grown enormously and is now the most popular TEFL site in Thailand - possibly even South East Asia. Although best-known for its vibrant jobs page, Ajarn has a wealth of articles, blogs, features and help and advice. But one principle has always remained at Ajarn's core - to tell things like they are and to do it with a sense of humor. Thailand can be Heaven or Hell for an English teacher. It's always been Ajarn.com's duty to present both sides of the equation. Thanks for stopping by.