Finding an internship in Thailand
If you are a self-motivated individual with good communication skills and a strong command of English, then doing an internship in Thailand is a great way to develop and apply academic knowledge to the realities of day-to-day life in modern business. The practical skills you will gain can give you a head start in pursuing your career, and international work experience will look great on your CV. An internship can also contribute to your academic credits if you are still enrolled at university and help you make valuable industry contacts for your future.
Why Thailand?
Thailand may not be at the top of your list when you consider internship destinations. However, the country does have a lot to offer — especially if you are interested in exploring opportunities in Southeast Asia and are looking forward to experiencing a different culture.
So, why intern in Thailand?
Firstly, like any foreign country, Thailand will teach you adaptability. You will learn how to stand back and examine your environment before proceeding to action. You will acquire invaluable skills in accepting and leveraging change — which are sure to be appreciated by your future employer.
Secondly, experience working in Asia and knowing the local culture and business procedures can make for a notable highlight on your future resume. Many companies in Europe and the US are turning to Southeast Asia for sourcing and other needs, so working experience in this region can come in very handy.
Working in Thailand gives you a chance to learn a foreign language much faster by immersing yourself in the environment. Even if you don't become fluent, being able to speak and understand Thai will be a valuable skill.
Interning in Thailand is a great opportunity to network with both locals and fellow expats. The country's major cities are busy cosmopolitan sentries where you will easily find professional meet-ups, conferences, talks, and more.
Travel and leisure — there is lots to see and do in Thailand. Exploring the city of Bangkok with its skyscrapers, hidden alleys, 24/7 food stalls, and temples is quite an experience all on its own. And then there is the rest of Thailand — with its valleys, mountains, islands, and so much more.
Finally, as a student, the cost of living may also be an important factor in your life. Thailand is known for its affordable living. From housing to food, you will be able to enjoy life, even on a tight budget.
Where to look for internships in Thailand?
Depending on the type of internship you are looking for, there are several options to consider.
You can always start your search online. Check out popular websites like Glassdoor or GoAbroad for available internship opportunities in the country.
You can also use LinkedIn and other professional social media and forums. Keep an eye out for companies in Thailand looking for interns. Before sending an application, make sure your profile is up-to-date. You can also change your LinkedIn location to your preferred city in Thailand to make it more noticeable to recruits.
Alternatively, reach out to companies that interest you. This may be a company in your hometown with an office in Thailand, a large multinational, or a local office looking for foreign talent. Contact the company with your resume and cover letter, explaining your motivation.
Most promising internship sectors in Thailand
Thailand offers multiple opportunities. However, it's not without its limitations. Certain occupations are off-limits to foreigners, and some industries may be substantially harder to get into than others.
Some of the most promising internship areas in Thailand include:
Business and marketing
The world is a global village, and many companies in Thailand either do business with companies abroad or sell their services to expats in the country. If you speak a foreign language and have the necessary skills to promote products and services, you may want to consider interning in a marketing or sales department.
Education
Teaching is one of the fastest ways to get a foot in the door into the Thai job market. Qualified English teachers, as well as teachers of other disciplines, are always welcome in the country, and should you choose to develop your teaching career in Thailand, there will be few obstacles in your way.
Other sectors
IT and computer science, IT specialists, web and application developers, real estate, and tourism are other promising fields for interns in Thailand.
Some multinational companies, such as Nestle, run student internship programs that offer on-the-job training in key business functions to prepare young people for their professional careers. In many cases, undergraduates and graduates can apply for internship positions in fields such as sales, marketing, finance and accounting, human resources, and production.
Depending on the company, interns may receive a minimum daily allowance on their working days. However, it is still advisable for them to come to Thailand with enough funds to support themselves during that period. As an intern, you will need to be prepared to make a full-time commitment to the length of the internship.
If you wish to work in the hospitality and tourism industry, an internship at a four- or five-star hotel in Thailand can also be a great stepping stone. Internships can be just four weeks in length or can last up to 1 year. In most cases, while working at a luxury hotel in Thailand, your accommodation will be provided for you, as will your meals during working hours. You will also receive a stipend to help supplement your living expenses, which is usually around THB9,000 per month, depending on where you intern.
In addition to these, Engineering, Law, and Business Development are also popular fields for internships in the Kingdom of Thailand.
Finding an internship in Thailand
Several companies are now acting as middlemen in organizing internships in Thailand. They will set up interviews on your behalf for a fee and help guide you through the process.
Alternatively, you can search the websites of international companies that offer internship programs and apply directly.
Visas in Thailand
Once you have applied and been accepted for an internship in Thailand, you will generally receive an internship offer that includes details of the role, location, working hours, and compensation. You will then be required to apply for a Non-Immigrant Visa 'ED' (Education), which is the type of visa that is issued to applicants who wish to study or complete internships in Thailand. This visa entitles you to stay in Thailand for a maximum of 90 days. Then, you must apply for a 30-day extension of stay at the Immigration Bureau. You can do this for up to one year from the date when you first entered Thailand.
Citizens of certain countries can only apply for a Thai visa at the Thai Embassy or Consulate General in their home/residence country. It is advisable to contact your nearest Thai Embassy or Consulate General to find out before you leave what rules apply to you and where you should apply.
You will need to submit the following documents along with a completed visa application form:
- your passport (with at least 6 months' validity);
- a recent photograph (4cm×6cm);
- a recommendation letter addressed to the Consulate;
- a letter of acceptance from the relevant company/organization and a recommendation letter addressed to the Consulate;
- your academic record and student ID if you are currently studying;
- Proof of THB 10,000 to support yourself in Thailand;
- Proof of accommodation in Thailand;
- Airline tickets showing both flights into and out of Thailand.
