What Jobs Are Available for American Expats?
Some occupations are limited to Thai citizens only. Click this link (http://www.bdo-thaitax.com/bdo/employment-foreigners) for the list of restricted works.
But, of course, there are lots of ways you can earn while enjoying the country. The employment opportunities available for expats include:
1. English Teacher – This is one of the most popular and easiest ways for native English speakers to earn. For one thing, one does not need a bachelor’s degree in education to teach. What one needs is a good command of the English language. So, if you are confident with your English and you can communicate well, try your hand at teaching. You can start by listing your name on online Thai job sites. Or you can start knocking on some local’s doors. You can also get recommendations from your Thai friends, especially teachers.
2. Language Translator – Ask your Thai wife or friends to teach you the language. Or if possible, enroll in a language school. English is business’ international language, and not too many Thai can speak English as well as a native. The pay can reach to as much as 8,000 Baht per day, if you are especially good. To get started in this kind of job, participate in local business conventions.
Gatherings like these are regularly held at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok. Go there, dress sharp, and mingle and talk with the businesses, especially those planning on expanding to an international market. Some might just find you the best person to help them promote and sell their products in English.
3. Dive Instructor – If the beach is one of the reasons you are in Thailand—and diving is your favorite hobby—then better put your skill to good use. This is especially true if you have PADI certificate and a diving instructor license. The pay might not be that much, but at least you are sure to earn from something you are passionate about, and you can earn more experience.
4. Professional Positions – It is honestly hard for foreigners to land a professional position in the country. However, if you have a really good experience and are an expert in your job, you can work as an accountant, lawyer, engineer, consultant, salesman, or whatever it is you specialize in. You have a higher chance of being hired in multi-national companies with Bangkok offices.
What are the legal requirements?
To be able to get a job in Thailand, you need to secure a work permit from the Department of Employment. The application for the permit should be submitted 30 days from your entry into the country. In the event that the work is urgent or critical though, an exception will be provided.
It is so easy to fall in love with Thailand. Great culture, friendly people, beautiful attractions, stunning beaches, and exotic food—what else can you ask for? But everybody knows that great things sometimes come at a great price, literally. So, foreigners planning on residing in Thailand, especially those who are living on their Social Security Benefit, should know that they cannot (and must not) rely on their Social Security Benefit alone.
But what are the earning opportunities out there for the American?
Well, YES.
Don’t just expect to get rich though because the rate will be most likely equal with the locals and you will not be probably enjoying the same Social Security you are earning in your own country.
Also, be prepared to deal with your local Thai bosses and colleagues. Workplace culture is very different there from the US. If you land in a good company though, the remuneration might just be good enough to sustain a comfortable lifestyle. And if you are willing to learn the new culture, getting on with your Thai superiors and workmates might just be a breeze.
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