Dear KK,
Would like to update you on the tel conf I had yesterday upon invitation of Peter Ulwahn – Director Long Haul (TUI DS).
Attended also:
- Suvi Pitkanen - Service Delivery Area Manager Thailand (TUI DS)
- Hakan Ingevik – Key Acount Manager TUI Nordic (TUI DS)
Main topic: TUI expat reps working yes/ no in Thailand in W1516 while work permit is in process.
As per our agreement and earlier info to TUI DS, I informed that:
- DSTH cannot confirm in writing that there will be no issues whatsoever related to local authorities & rep questioning who work while permit has not been delivered yet.
- We expect any related problems to be minimal, and in any case TUI DS can count on the full support of DSTH on the spot.
- Average time needed to obtain work permits is 18 working days.
Key for TUI DS is of course that none of their reps end up in jail or being deported. There have been cases in other tourist destinations (Turkey Egypt) where reps were arrested in media was informed.
On the other side, TUI DS cannot afford for their reps to be approx. 1 month in Thailand without working. TUI Nordic is aware that TUI UK & GASP reps last year started working before actual receipt of WP, and this without any problems.
A final decision will be made by TUI DS internally and we will be kept informed.
DSTH position including its limitations has been made clear to TUI DS. TUI DS also fully aware of the law characteristics in Thailand and the fact that various interpretations may apply.
Am counting on your team’s support please to assure that:
- every work permit application goes as smooth as possible and is followed up on a daily basis for all destinations
- open communication between your HR team directly & by DSTH assigned consultants, with clear info on process development and expected dates of WP delivery
From DS Inhouse Sales side, you will continue to have the support of Khun Nuit in Phuket for the following tasks:
- Collection of required documents upon rep arrival
- Preparing documents for pick-up by consultant (in Phuket/ Krabi)
- Maintaining Excel summary list of work permit process for destination Phuket/ Khao Lak
Khun Nuit will not be able to drop off or pick up any documents in Phuket Town, as related transport expenses are not reimbursed by the Company. Please take this into account and advise the consultant accordingly.
I would suggest for you to have a pre-season direct meeting with all consultants (BKK HKT KBV) in order to clearly explain what is needed by DSTH, when the consultants can expect payments, who to contact in case of legal issues (example rep has to go to police station who demand Thai speaking contact present on behalf of DSTH) etc.
I will let you know as soon as I hear about TUI DS final decision.
Thank you in advance for keeping me informed on the above.