Hospitality Jobs and Working Legally in Phuket: Roles, Pay and Work Permits

What foreigners are hired for

Reports say hotels and resorts hire foreigners mostly for senior and specialist roles, such as general manager, operations, sales and marketing, HR and pre-opening roles, while front desk, housekeeping and food service jobs are filled by Thai and other local workers. Reported monthly pay in 2026 listings runs from about 80,000 to 150,000 baht for a smaller-property manager to 200,000 baht and up for a luxury resort general manager, while general hospitality staff pay is reported at about 15,000 to 30,000 baht.

Permits and restricted jobs

A work permit and a suitable visa are needed, usually through a Thai employer, and one guide reports about 3,000 baht for a one-year permit with agent fees on top. A guide also says dozens of occupations are closed to foreigners, including hairdressing, guiding and shop selling. Working without a permit risks fines and deportation. See the visa hub and the starting a business guide.

Remote and other routes

If your income comes from foreign clients, see the remote work guide. For teaching, see the teaching English guide.

Spotting bad offers

• Walk away from offers to work first and sort the permit later.
• Confirm the employer's registered company and who files your permit.
• Get a written contract.
• Be wary of upfront fees.
• See the legal help guide and the TM30 guide for reporting duties.