work permits/freelance advice

[stevenl]

Yes, that is one of the visa options, but to work legally also a work permit is required.

 

[gubbins]

Just thinking if someone is only planning to stay for a year, could save most of that startup cost. In BKK, it's tolerated. No idea about Phuket. Met a couple of instructors on Tao how had the Ed visas so maybe they're more lenient there.

 

[Quero]

Just thinking if someone is only planning to stay for a year, could save most of that startup cost. In BKK, it's tolerated. No idea about Phuket. Met a couple of instructors on Tao how had the Ed visas so maybe they're more lenient there.

I'm not any kind of immigration specialist, but based on the process I had to do, and as I understand it from talking to others who have done it the same way, in order to receive that Non-immigrant Business visa (non-B), the applicant has to present paperwork from an employer saying there's a job waiting. The problem with the scuba industry is that by and large they are not willing to employ foreign instructors full time, so they cannot provide the documentation that will allow for the issuance of the non-B. The way most instructors get this visa (at least here on Phuket) is to form a small company of their own and have that company complete the necessary paperwork. Once that's done, the company can then apply for the work permit on behalf of the instructor.

Here on Phuket, I dare say that the large majority of instructors are legal. And it's not unheard of for immigration officials to do spot checks at the pier, on boats, or in pools. It's common knowledge that this isn't the case everywhere (as evidenced by DevonDiver's experience on Tao), but personally I think that's a shame. I would venture to say that the average instructor who is willing to jump through a few hoops (okay, a whole stack of hoops) to get his/her documents in order to work here legally is a somewhat more committed professional than one who can't be bothered for whatever reason. I wish enforcement were as rigorous at all of the areas in Thailand that employ scuba instructors as it is on Phuket. I think the industry as a whole would benefit from this by having a higher percentage of committed professionals, and the country would benefit by receiving its due share of taxes on income.

 

[gubbins]

Totally agree, especially with the second paragraph.

 

[aquamarin]

Well, quite a few people in Khao Lak have shaken their heads when I tell them that we provide work permits for our instructors - some of them are afraid that the word will spread and they'll have to do the same :confused6:

I totally agree with Quero that committed dm's/instructors are a major benefit to the industry; especially since many foreigners have a great deal of prejudice when it comes to the quality of teaching in Thailand. People who are in it for the long run are often much more dedicated and quality conscious than the 1-season-ones.

Obviously I'm saying this knowing I may get beaten up for it

 

[Quero]

we provide work permits for our instructors

 

[lord khram]

Well, quite a few people in Khao Lak have shaken their heads when I tell them that we provide work permits for our instructors - some of them are afraid that the word will spread and they'll have to do the same :confused6:

I totally agree with Quero that committed dm's/instructors are a major benefit to the industry; especially since many foreigners have a great deal of prejudice when it comes to the quality of teaching in Thailand. People who are in it for the long run are often much more dedicated and quality conscious than the 1-season-ones.

Obviously I'm saying this knowing I may get beaten up for it

This has got to be the correct way.
I dare say those that want to stay at one place and work there for extended periods will be much more commited and interested in what they are doing than those that are just there for a few months fun.
The ones that are in it for the long haul will generally be more commited to getting happy customers and repeat business because the quality of their future depends on it.
From the point of view of the shop owners it may mean a little initial investment, but I dare say there are long term potential benefits to having at least some long term commited staff.

 

[DevonDiver]

Obviously I'm saying this knowing I may get beaten up for it

Not by me. I hate the way that the scuba industry treats instructors in Asia. I think that this treatment devalues dive pros and ultimately leads to the low standards and professionalism that attract so much criticism to the region and/or the agencies.

I fully support your decision to provide work permits for your expat staff. I bet they are loyal to you and your quality standards reflect that.

 

[red_barbarian]

Nor by me, just knowing that you do that makes me inclined to dive with your op the next time I'm down that way. The fact you take the time to do that and the non-trivial effort that's required says a lot for the way you run your business. I wish there were more dive centers in Thailand with that attitude.

 

[lord khram]

Nor by me, just knowing that you do that makes me inclined to dive with your op the next time I'm down that way. The fact you take the time to do that and the non-trivial effort that's required says a lot for the way you run your business. I wish there were more dive centers in Thailand with that attitude.

Yes, agreed, again we can only hope that at least some of the DC's will sit up and listen to their customers opinions.
Although somehow I doubt it.