Job Discussion Forums

[abusalam4]

I am considering teaching in Thailand from September this year on at a University. It is the first time that I wlll go there. I will go there by a working visa required to teach legally in Thailand.

I am wondering what the procedure will be when transforming that working visa into a residence and working permit.

Do I have to be aware of any humiliating checks - the so-called "Health" check I know from Mainland China is one of them, or a police check?
Would it be good enogh if I bring my own health certificate and police report from my country to Thailand? No problem in both these cases. I am just a bit worried about the some "bad" surprises as I do not like any unnecessary hassle with bureaucracy.

I have seen some postings here concerning the present political situation in Thailanda after the military coup. Any special problems?`

Are there restrictions on religious freedom or can I go to any local church if there is one?

Any input would be highly appreciated.

[tedkarma]

The "health" certificate required here usually costs about B50, takes up to two minutes to conduct - and pretty much only guarantees that you are still breathing. Or, at least, were breathing at the time they saw you.

Nothing "humiliating" about it.

[roguegrafix]

Yes, Ted nailed it exactly. Sometimes I've got one without even seeing the doctor--the nurse filled out the form!

[Kent F. Kruhoeffer]

xxxx

[Sgt Killjoy]

Abu, no restrictions on churches but you will find that you do not attend church much unless you are in Bangkok, there's not really any services in English.

Hassles with bureaucracy? Don't know where to begin. When I was in Thailand, I went to get a re-entry permit.

The first time I got one, I checked the net for the requirements, take your passport, photo, 1000 baht. When I got there, I was told I needed a copy of my data page, visa page and the entry/exit card and photo. No prob, leave and go find a copy shop.

Went again a few months later and they told me that I needed a copy of every single page of the passport so I went and got it, came back and they informed me that I needed two copies. All the while I am doing my best to keep smiling at this insane stupidity.

Afterwards, I was told by my director, yes you can have to be polite and smile because you are getting a benefit from them. I told her, no. I am here for the sole reason of helping Thai students. I am sacrificing a higher wage to help Thai students. They are the ones getting the benefit from me.

So the question is, can you deal with things changing on a whim? Do you want your stay in Thailand to be based on a whim? It might be ok for someone who has to be there because of family concerns or someone who is there for adventure, but who else?

Remember, in Thailand, the goalposts keep changing based on the mood and whim of those in charge.