Thailand experienced a considerable boom in its economy in the 1990s, with its GDP doubling in less than 10 years. Now considered a “middle-income country”, its government has put in place an economic transition strategy in order to become a developed country by 2036. Thailand’s economy is dynamic in the agricultural, industrial, tourism and services sectors.

Good to know :

Languages Spoken : Thai
Local currency : Baht
Capital : Bangkok

The conditions for undertaking a Business France V.I.E in Thailand

Do you already meet the International Young Talent Program criteria ?

Then, consult the table here!

- If your situation only meets ☼, you can try your luck for a V.I.E in Thailand. Your application will be studied.

- If your situation meets at least 1 X, 😬 Thailand cannot accommodate you in V.I.E. Don't be disappointed, continue your research! Other exciting destinations will seduce you!

Do you have any doubts about your eligibility ? Feel free to contact us.

The conditions for undertaking a Business France V.I.A in Thailand

To go to Thailand as a V.I.A, you must fulfil the conditions for accessing the V.I.A.  
The administration that is recruiting you is responsible for your residence permit.

Cultural work codes in Thailand

In Thailand politeness will be your best ally. The country is founded on a strict hierarchy that places the elderly at the top of the pyramid. Everyone remains in their place and respects their superiors.

To greet your Thai counterparts, you do not shake hands but perform a Wai. It is a gesture that consists of joining your hands together lifting them to eye level and tilting your head a little. Inform yourself out about this gesture, which is highly codified and the significance of which depends on the level at which you place your hands.

You may be surprised and intimidated by the length of Thai surnames. Well we have good news for you! The use of the full name is generally reserved for very formal occasions or written communications. To address the person you are speaking to, you can simply state their first name, preceded by “Khun” (pronounced “Coune”).

To facilitate your exchanges, you can communicate via the Line application. Although this messaging system is unknown in France, it is widely used in Thailand. It allows greater responsiveness and less formal exchanges!

Things that may surprise you in Thailand

- Thai culture is highly codified and includes its share of delicate subjects that must be avoided so as not to embarrass the person you are speaking to. The first of these subjects is the King, an absolute icon in Thailand who must always be referred to with the greatest respect. In Thailand, insulting the King and his family is illegal. And since the interpretation of the term “insult” is quite subjective, be careful. All the more so if you are French, as you will be seen as a descendant of the “sans-culottes” who killed their king !

- The national anthem is broadcast daily in public places at 7 a.m. and 6 p.m.. So as not to offend the Thais, respect these moments by standing up in silence and stopping all other activities. It is also a good way to know the time without looking at your watch;)

- Always remove your shoes when asked. As a general rule, you remove your shoes at the entrance to houses, temples or even in certain parts of restaurants and hotels.

- Adopt the local philosophy of “Mai pen rai” which means “don't pay attention”! It invites you to stay calm in all circumstances and not take life too seriously. You leave aside impatience and aggression in favour of a broad smile and a healthy dose of patience.

- The head is the most sacred part of the body in Thai culture. Avoid touching other people's heads, whether they are adults or children. Overall, smiling is the best way to show warmth, as Thais do not appreciate physical displays of affection.

- Expect to enjoy Thai food, but also to weep with every bite. Thai gastronomy is very spicy, and comes as a surprise to our Western taste buds ! Enjoy pad thai, sticky rice and street food in Bangkok.