HANDBOOK For International Staff and Students

Transcription

1 HANDBOOK For International Staff and Students INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS CENTRE (IAC) PRINCE OF SONGKLA UNIVERSITY PHUKET CAMPUS

2 Table of Contents Welcome 3 PSU Phuket in Brief 4 Map of PSU Phuket Campus 5 Academic Calendar and Mobile Application 6 International Affairs Centre 7 Communication 8 Visa Information 9 - Student Visa 9 - Working Visa 9 - The Difference Between a Single Entry Visa and a Multiple Entry Visa 10 - Other Important Information 11 - Re-entry Permit 12 - Visa Extension Day Report Day Report Online 15 Group Accident Insurance 16 PSU Passport and PSU Internet System 17 PSU Medical Service& PSU Fitness 17 Obtaining a Thai Driver s License 18 PSU Phuket Library 20 Essential Information for Staff 21 - Work Permit 21 - Payment of Thai Taxes 22 - Social Security Insurance 23 - Vacations/Sick Leave/Holidays 28 - Staff Banking and PSU ID card 29 Essential Information for Students 30 - Student Uniforms 30 - Banking and Student ID Card 31 - Graduation Requirements: Extracurricular Activities 32 Getting to Know Thailand 34 - Holidays 34 - Electrical Voltage 37 - Thai Culture 37 - Cultural Awareness 38 Phuket 38 - Phuket Climate 38 - Getting Around Phuket 39 - Local Events 40 - Important Safety Recommendations 41 Cultural Events and Activities 42 Housing 43 - On-Campus 43 - Off-Campus 43 Airport Transportation and Important Phone Numbers 47 Lost Passport and/or ID card 48 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 49 2

3 Dear International Members, Welcome to Prince of Songkla University (PSU), Phuket Campus. This booklet includes essential information international staff and students at PSU Phuket should be aware of. Use of this booklet will help international staff and students not only adjust to life at PSU Phuket, but also toliving in Thailand. Hopefully, as a result, international members at PSU Phuket will benefit from a pleasant and productive stay. One booklet can surely not answer all queries. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the International Affairs Centre IAC. Our office is conveniently located on the second floor (2 nd ) of the President s Office Building (Building 7), just opposite the elevators. We are here to answer your questions and make sure your transition to being atpsu Phuket goes smoothly. Enjoy your stay & Sawat-dee kha/khrap. 3

4 PSUPhuket in Brief PSU was founded in 1967 as the 1 st university in southern Thailand. The name Prince of Songkla was bestowed by H. M. King Bhumibol Adulyadej in honor of his late father, HRH Prince Mahidol of Songkla. PSU has 5 campuses spread across Southern Thailand: in Hat Yai, Pattani, Phuket, Surat Thani and Trang. PSU, Phuket Campus was founded on the 14 th November PSU s acronym, ม. อ. MOR-OR is taken from the original name of Prince Mahidol Adulyadej (HRH Prince Mahidol of Songkla). HRH Prince Mahidol of Songkla s tenets are: Let consideration of personal gain take second place to the overall benefits of mankind. Good fortune, wealth and prestige come naturally to those who are spiritually dedicated to their work. Phuket Campus is presently comprised of the following faculties and departments: Phuket Community College (PCC) Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism (FHT) Faculty of International Studies (FIS) Faculty of Technology and Environment (FTE) Department of Computer Engineering (CoE) Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Earth System Scienceand Andaman Natural Disaster Management (ESSAND) International College of Arts and Science Phuket (ICASP) Confucius Institute of Phuket (CIP) Campus Administration Office (President s Office Building) As of July 2016, PSU Phuket has approximately 439 total staff, 39 international staff, 3063 total students and 63 international students. The University color is NAVY BLUE. The Symbolic Flower is the Jacaranda. 4

5 Map of the PSU PHUKET CAMPUS Front Gate Back Gate 1 Faculty of Technology and Environment 10 Staff Residences 1A Department of Computer Engineering 11 Indoor Stadium 2 Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism 12 Security Guard Center 2A PSU Lodge 13 Dormitory 1, 2 (Female Students) 3 Faculty of International Studies 4 Workshop Center 5 Academic Service Center (Library) 14 Dormitory (Male Students) 15 Dormitory 3 (Female Students) 16 Football Field 5A International College of Arts and Science 17 Tennis Courts 6 Central Academic and Laboratory Facilities 7 The President s Office Building 8 Canteen 18 Basketball Court 19 Under Construction (Sport s Complex) 20 Siam Commercial Bank (PSU Phuket Branch) 9 Facilities and Gym/Fitness 5

6 Academic Calendar SEMESTER 1 Semester 1 Begins 15 August Mid Term Exams 8-16 October PSU Academic Research Week Mid November Last Day of Classes 2 December Final Exams 6-18 December Semester 1 Ends 19 December Mid-Year Break 19 December - 9 January SEMESTER 2 Semester 2 Begins 9 January Mid Term Exams 4-12 March Last Day of Classes 28 April Final Exams 1-15 May Semester 2 Ends 16 May SUMMER SEMESTER Summer Semester Begins 5 June Last Day of Classes 21 July Final Exams July Summer Semester Ends 29 July (The dates are subject to change depending on the year) PSU Mobile Application Recently PSU Phuket has launched its very own Mobile Application, which can be downloaded on your smart phone through the Play Store, just search PSU Phuket. The App contains useful information about PSU Phuket including news, events, faculties, programs, facilities, maps, galleries and contact details. 6

7 International Affairs Centre (IAC) The International Affairs Centre (IAC) supports the university s primary aim at making the campus international. Its missions include: 1. Development of international programs & collaboration 2. Protocol involving international guests and conferences 3. Hospitality and support for international academics including visiting dignitaries, faculties, students and other personnel. 4. Communications network for on-campus international members 5. Promotion of global awareness and good will 6. Personal development International Affairs Centre Staff Name Contact Information Responsibilities Assistant Professor Dr. NuwanThapthiang, Ph.D. Tel nuwan.t@phuket.psu.ac.th Assistant to the President for International Affairs Ms. RuthairatKonmai (Tye) Tel iactye@gmail.com ruthairat.k@phuket.psu.ac.th Ms. BenjawanRianrom (Ben) Tel iacbigben@gmail.com benjawan.r@phuket.psu.ac.th Mr. ChawananChupeng (Toe) Tel iactoemorn@gmail.com chawanan.c@phuket.psu.ac.th Ms. PichyadaJeokwon (Pure) Tel iacpurepure@gmail.com pichyada.j@phuket.psu.ac.th Ms. SukhumaKetsuwan (Syn) Tel iacsynvia@gmail.com sukhuma.k@phuket.psu.ac.th Mr. Nitiphoom Waitira (Joe) Tel iacjojoe@gmail.com nitiphoom.w@phuket.psu.ac.th Head, International Affairs Centre Visa letter requests and renewal, immigration affairs Office administration, IAC webmaster, information update Work permits, Thai tax International guest relations Accounting and finance, international dormitory coordinator 7

8 Office Phone: Office Fax: Office s: Office Facebook: Office Location: International Affairs Centre (IAC) Prince of Songkla University, Phuket Campus President s Office Building (Building 7), 2 nd Floor 80 Moo 1, Vichitsongkram Road, Kathu, Phuket 83120Thailand Web Address: Office Hours: Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. IAC is closed on weekends and public holidays. Communication Telephone When a call is made from abroad, it should be dialed in the following ways: Home or Office number: xxxxxx Mobile phone: +66-8x-xxxxxxx or +66-9x-xxxxxxx Domestic calls Home or office number: (076) xxxxxx Mobile phone: (08x) xxxxxxx or (09x) xxxxxxx International calls AIS network: xxxxxx (20 baht per minute, excluding tax) Dtac network: xxxxxx (19 baht per minute, excluding tax) True network: xxxxxx (6 baht per minute, excluding tax) Other networks: 001/009/007/ xxxxxx (rate varies by network) Post Letters and packages should be sent to the following address: [Your Name] Attention: International Affairs Centre Prince of Songkla University, Phuket Campus 80 Moo 1, Vichitsongkram Road, Kathu, Phuket THAILAND For [Phone Number] please write the IAC Office Phone Number:

9 Visa Information Student Visa All students who attend Prince of Songkla University, Phuket Campus are required to hold a student visa: Type of Visa - Non-Immigrant - Category ED - No. of Entry - Single (S). International students who are accepted to study at PSU Phuket will receive two certified lettersand other related documents from the university to present at the Royal Thai Embassy with their Visa Application Form: 1) Acceptance Letter 2) Visa Request Letter (in Thai) 3) Verification by Vice President and Administration Working Visa All foreign staff employed by Prince of Songkla University, Phuket Campus are required to hold a working visa: Type of Visa - Non-Immigrant - Category B - No. of Entry - Single (S). Prospective international staffwho areoffered employment at PSU Phuket will receive certified letters and other related documentsfrom the university to present at the Royal Thai Embassy with their Visa Application Form: 1) Acceptance Letter 2) Visa Request Letter (in Thai) 3) Official Employment Letter issued by HR or Employment Contract 4) Verification by Vice President and Administration Remarks: 1. There are Single Entry (S) and Multiple Entry (M) Visas, however a Single Entry visa is recommended for both students and staff. 2. For staff whose spouse and children would like to apply for a Non-Immigrant Category O Visa, copies of the staff s documents can be used toapply for the visas; however this is subject to the consideration of the embassy. Note that IAC cannot take care of independent s visas; it will be the independent s responsibility. 3. For more information about the visa application process please visit 9

10 The difference between a Single Entry Visa and Multiple Entry Visa In order to determine if you should apply for a single entry or a multiple entry visa, you should consider the number of times you intend to travel outside Thailand within 90 days after you arrive. IAC recommends that you apply for a Single Entry Visa (S). Choose a Single Entry Visa if you do not have any plans to leave Thailand or if you are not sure about your travel plans. Choose a Multiple Entry Visa if you plan to leave Thailand or travel outside of Thailand within 90 days after you arrive. This will allow you to get better value for your money. For traveling outside Thailand, it is recommended that you search for information about the country you would like to visit, especially immigration rules and regulations about visas. For example in Singapore you are required to show your return ticket upon arrival, otherwise you are not allowed to enter the country. 10

11 Other Important Information For those who hold a Single Entry Visa (S) the embassy will only grant a three-month (90 day) validity period for the first application. Once you are in the Kingdom of Thailand, a visa extension can easily be done in Phuket under our campus auspice. While those who hold a Multiple Entry Visa (M), the visa will be valid for one (1) year from the visa issue date, however you will have to leave Thailand every 90 days. There is no visa category that will initially allow you to stay in the Kingdom of Thailand for more than 90 days. However, you can extend your visa before it expires at the Immigration Office in Phuket Town, but this will automatically change your visa to a Single Entry Visa (S). When you see a page in your passport stamped: ENTER BEFORE DATE, this specifies that you must enter Thailand before the date stamped, and has nothing to do with the validity period of your visa. It is simply a time frame in which you can travel to Thailand. It is illegal to hold a tourist visa to work or study in Thailand (It is also illegal to work while holding a Non-Immigrant ED (Education) visa, however internships are allowed). The period for a tourist visa is generally only 60 days, and you can get a 30 day extension. The duration you are allowed to stay in Thailand depends on what type of visa you are holding (some countries have special agreements with the Thai Government in order to allow their citizens to stay in Thailand). If you enter Thailand with a tourist visa, you must leave the country with a university letter to apply for a Non-Immigrant Visa at a Thai Embassy or Consulate somewhere outside of Thailand. Mostly we would recommend you go to Penang or Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia. Once you get a visa check its expiry date. You cannot stay beyond the expiry date, not even by one day, but you can depart Thailand any day before the expiry date. No documents are needed if you leave the country before the expiry date of your visa. For PSU staff and students, IAC will extend the validity of your visa before it expires so you are able to stay in Thailand for a maximum of one year(based on the Rules and Regulations for Non- Immigrant Visa Applications). Upon entering the Kingdom of Thailand, as you go through the immigration counter, please make sure that the immigration officer did not just give you a 30-day visa on arrival. They typically stamp USED on your visa page. Please staple the Immigration d TM6 Form so called Departure Card into your passport, as you will need it to leave the country. 11

12 Re-Entry Permit If you get a Single Entry Visa and wish to travel outside Thailand at a later time, you must apply for a Re-Entry Permit at the Immigration Office in Phuket Town before leaving Thailand. Without this permit, your visa will be cancelled and Immigration will stamp a tourist visa in your passport on your return date and you will have to go through the Non- B/Non-ED visa application process again. So be sure to come to IAC to pick up a form to apply for a Re-entry Permit at the Immigration Office, or you can IAC at iacpsu@gmail.com and we can provide you with the information and form via . There are 2 types of re-entry permits: A Single Re-Entry Permit: You intend to leave Thailand only one time and you do not have plans to leave Thailand again in the near future after your return. The fee for a single re-entry permit is 1,000 baht. A Multiple Re-Entry Permit: You intend to leave Thailand more than one time within 3-6 months after your return. This permit will enable you to take as many overseas trips as you want until your visa expires (not more than one (1) year). The fee for a multiple re-entry permit is 3,800 baht. For more information and to download the application forms please contact Single Re-entry Multiple Re-entry 12

13 Visa Extension Regardless of the number of times you enter the country with your visa (single or multiple entries); at the time of your first arrival you are only permitted to stay a maximum of 90 days. Before the 90 days has passed, your visa must be extended to cover your study or work period. Your visa will be extended the maximum of one (1) fiscal year for staff or cover the study period for students. Your visa, however, cannot be extended more than 1 year at a time.the fee for the visa extension is 1,900 baht. Please note that if you enter the country with a Multiple Entry Visa you MUST leave and re-enter Thailand every 90 days. If you don t have plans to leave the country, your visa can be extended at the Immigration Office at Phuket Town, however your Multiple Entry Visa will automatically be changed to a Single Entry Visa. If you have plans to leave the country you will have to apply for a Re-Entry Permit beforehand. You must notify the International Affairs Centre (IAC) two weeks before your expiry date to get an extension on your visa. The extension can be done within 45 days before the expiry date. Note:If you overstay, there is a fine of 500 THB per day, and a maximum of 20,000 THB. This will be stamped in your passport at the time of your first arrival in Thailand with a Non-B/Non-ED Visa This stamp shows your date of entry (example: 10 Sep 2013), and the date you should either: 1. Go for your 90 day report (example: 8 Dec 2013) 2. Get a visa extension (for Single Entry Visas) 3. Leave the country (for Multiple Entry Visas) 90-Day Report All international members atpsu Phuket, including staff and students, regardless of their visa types, but especially those with Non-B/Non-ED Single (S) Entry Visas, are required to report to an Immigration Office in Thailand every 90 days. The exception is when your temporary 3-month visa, applied for and obtained from abroad when you first entered the Kingdom of Thailand, expires. You will have to report to the Immigration Office in Phuket Town to extend the 3-month temporary visa to a full-year visa, based on your contract. You can ask IAC for assistance. 90-Days are counted in the following ways: Applying for the first extension of your 3-month visa to a full year visa: Start counting from the date your visa has been extended. The 90 th day is the date you are required to make a 90-Day Report. Fill out Form TM 47, and bring it to the 13

14 Immigration Office. There is no charge for this extension e.g. Suppose your first temporary 3-month visa is extended on 23 September. Counting 90 days, you will have to make your first 90-Day report on 22 December at the immigration office; however you are able to report yourself 15 days prior to that date or within 7 days after that date. Once your first 90-Day report is done, the last part of the form: Receipt of Notification will be stapled in your passport indicating the date of your next 90-Day report. The first visa extension date is your first 90 Day Report, the next 90 days is counted from this date. It is important that you note the date and report yourself to the Immigration Office. Note: If you overstay, there is a fine of 500 THB per day, and a maximum of 2,000 THB at the Immigration Office in Phuket Town, or a maximum of 5,000 THB at Phuket International Airport. Receipt of Notification Leaving the country before the due date of your next 90-Day report: If you leave the country before the due date of your next 90-Day report, begin counting your 90 days from the date you re-enter the Kingdom of Thailand, as shown on the date stamped on Form TM 6 (your Departure Card) from the Thai Immigration Bureau, stapled into your passport. 14

15 90-Day Report Online Immigration has recently introduced a new system for the 90-Day Report, it can now be done online so you do not have to visit the immigration office every 90 days. Please note that this online 90 day report system has recently had issues and is often not operational, if this is the case you must visit the immigration office in Phuket Town instead to report your 90 days there. Instead, you can visit the following website (using only an Internet Explorer web browser): this link does not work, please visit and click on the bar on the left hand side that says Apply for Notification of Staying in the Kingdom Over 90 Days. You can review the 90 Day Report Guideline available on the IAC website for detailed instructions.if you decide to do the 90 day report online, it must be done 8-15 days before the due date. When asked to enter theaddress of Resident, please fill this in as: "Apartment" at PSU Phuket, 80 Moo 1 Vichitsongkram Road, District Kathu, Phuket Province, Thailand, and telephone number If you have problems with this please contact Ben at IAC who is in charge of visas. While the IAC s monthly updated notices include information on each international member s 90-Day report, it is important that you review the information for accuracy. If the IAC makes a mistake, please be sure to notify the staff. 15

16 Group Accident Insurance Group accident insurance is provided for all PSU full-time staff and students. Special course students may not be entitled to this insurance as they may be covered by their home university. The Student Affairs Department will automatically apply for this insurance for PSU full-time students after their registration in the PSU Student System. Note: Staff who are on probation are not covered; however the faculty can send an official letter to the Personal Department if required fora special case(the decision will be made on a case-by-case basis). Period of Coverage: The insurance is valid for a 1 year period; a renewal will be applied for at the end of each Academic Year (at the start of the first semester of each year). The insurance will begin coverage after the faculty has submitted an official letter containing the names of new students to the Student Affairs Department or of new staff to the Personnel Department in order to report the new list to the insurance company. Group Accident Insurance covers the following: Medical care for accidental injuries that could occur in daily life, for example, while working, playing sports, traveling, etc. Incidents such as bites and stings are also covered. Some exceptions apply so check the policy carefully. Injuries which occur during an attack on your person, including an attack which leads to murder, involving civil unrest or strikes. Note: PSU has a contract with Dibuk Hospital. The first time you visit the hospital you will have to pay a small and non-refundable Medical Records Administrative fee. If you are admitted to Dibuk Hospital, the first 12,000 baht of your expenses are automatically covered by the insurance. If you are not admitted, you have to pay charges up front. Following your hospital treatment, bring the bill, your ID card, your passport and the Medical Certificate detailing your injury to the IAC who will then coordinate with the Student Affairs Office in order to claim reimbursement from the insurance company. If you go to another hospital, whether you are admitted or not, you have to pay charges up front and take all documents mentioned in the previous case to the IAC in order to claim reimbursement from the insurance company. Note: if admitted to Dibuk Hospital, students have to show their student ID card and staff have to show their blue VIRAYAH INSURANCE card that they received from IAC. 16

17 Insurance coverage includes the following: Contents Coverage amount (THB) Loss of life caused by accident 120,000 Additional payment for funeral if dead from the accident 30,000 Dismemberment, loss of sight or total permanent disability caused by accident 120,000 Murder victim 120,000 Riot and strike 120,000 Medical compensation for each accident 12,000 PSU Medical Service At PSU Phuket there is a free medical center in Building 6 on the first floor. The center is open from Monday to Friday from 9:00 am 4:00 pm with registered nurses on duty; however a doctor is available every Tuesday afternoon. PSU Fitness At PSU Phuket, in the big building to the left of the Canteen, on the 2 nd floor, there is a fitness center/gym, it is open from Monday to Friday from 5:00 pm 8:00 pm (closed on weekends and public holidays). PSU Passport and PSU Internet System When new staff arrive at PSU they will have to fill in a Personnel Division (Registration Unit) form. After this, within the first or second week of work or study, staff and students are issued a PSU Passport to login to the on-campus internet system. When you turn on the computer and open Internet Explorer, the User Identification Portal page will be the first page that pops-up on your screen. Once you login you can begin searching the web.for students, your student ID will be used as the user name and your passport number will be used as the password. After you first login, you can change your password if you wish.to the left isan example of the User Identification Portal page for your reference:if the page is not automatically shown when you first open Internet Explorer, please go to in order to log in. 17

18 Obtaining a Thai Driver s License Many travelers already have an International Driver s License when they arrive in Thailand, allowing them to drive in Thailand and other countries listed. Once you have been in Thailand for a period of over two years, however, you will need a Thai driver s license. Documents of several insurance companies state that the insured driver should hold a valid Thai driving license to be fully covered. If you already have an International Driver s License and would like to obtain a Thai license, the process will take one day at the Land Transport Office. Your new Thai License will be valid for one year. Your next renewal will be another year unless you hold a Non- Immigrant Visa which makes you eligible for a license that is valid for 5 years. Please be sure to arrive at the office between 7:30am and 9am and bring original documents along with the following: Valid Passport with valid Non-immigrant Visa Photo copy of the photo page of your passport, the page with the current Non- Immigrant Visa, the page with the last entry stamp, and the TM card. Valid work permit, or a certified letter of address from the applicant s embassy, or from the Immigration Office (document cannot be older than 30 days). Students can contact IAC to receive the official letter to bring to the Immigration Office. Medical certificate (date issued must not be more than 30 days old), issued by any hospital or clinic. If available, a copy of your original International Driver s License, plus signed photocopies, or a translated regular driving license from the applicant s home country, certified by an embassy or consulate. Two hundred five (205) baht application fee. Note: All documents in languages other than Thai must be translated into English or Thai from the Embassy of the applicant s country of origin. 18

19 One set of the documents is required per license application. When applying for both a car and a motorcycle license, for example, an extra copy of the doctor s certificate and the letter of address will suffice for the second application. If you have any further questions, please call (66) and ask to speak with someone who speaks English. Details regarding the procedure are also listed on the website including information concerning a seminar in the morning for about an hour followed by a 3 part exam: eye and physical reaction test, written test (in 5 languages including Thai, Malay, Chinese, Japanese and English), and finally, a driving test in the afternoon.note: The written and driving tests are only required if you do not already have a driver s license from your home country or an international driver s license, or if these have expired. Phuket Provincial Land Transport Office 42/1 Rattanakosin Song-Roy-Pee Road Taladnua, Muang Phuket Tel Driver s License Extension If you have had a Thai driver s license for 1 year you can extend it for 5 years (the cost is around 500 Thai Baht). To do so you must take with you the same documents as listed on the previous page (minus the international driving license). You must also be prepared to do the reflex tests again. If you have a 5 year driver s license and want to extend it for another 5 years, you must go through the same process but you must additionally watch a 1 hour video about driving rules in Thailand. 19

20 PSUPhuket Library The library is located on the 2 nd floor in The Learning Centre Building (Building 5). ( Library hours Study Period Monday Friday open 8:30 a.m. 7:30 p.m. Saturday Sunday open 8:30 a.m. 4:30 p.m. Note: Library is closed on public holidays. Semester Break Monday Friday open a.m p.m. Note: Library is closed during weekends and public holidays. Library Services 1. Circulation 2. Reference 3. Reserved books 4. OPAC / OPAC service, searching service from database 5. Internet service, free Wi-Fi internet provided 6. Inter-Library Loan PSU PHUKETLibrary Privileges Books Borrowing Cassettes Borrowing (Thesis, books, Period VDO Period research paper, etc.) CD-ROMs Lecturers 15 1 month 3 7 days Graduate Students days 3 7 days Staff/ Undergraduate Students 5 7 days 3 7 days Notes: The library will not provide lending services during examination periodsbeginning two weeks prior to the examination period. Periodicals, newspapers, and reference materials are to be used only in the library. 20

21 Essential Information for Staff Work Permit The dates of your work permit will depend on your employment contract. Documents needed to FIRST apply for a work permit: Six (6) photos: 3x4cm each: The photos must be non-smiling, not Polaroid, no bare shoulders, no sunglasses, and no hats. Applicants should plan on wearing a plain blouse/shirt. Original passport with Non-B Visa Note: You will be asked to sign six copies of your passport and Non-B Visa, and also copies for visa, social security and tax applications. Originalor copy of your highest degree earned as well as transcript (in English or Thai only). Originalmedical certificates including your blood type (if you know your blood type you can inform the IAC directly) and verification of examination for not being insane or mentally sick, suffering from leprosy, tuberculosis, drug addiction, alcoholism, elephantitus and tertiary syphilis.recommended hospitals to obtain your medical certificate are: Mission Hospital, Phuket International Hospital, Bangkok Hospital, Vachira Hospital or Dibuk Hospital. Note: The certificates must be dated no longer than one month before the date of the application for your work permit. It is recommended that you see a doctor for the medical certificates after you have obtained your Non-B Visa. A medical certificate is required for a new work permit application as well as an extension. Fifty (50) Baht (revenue stamp and photocopy fee) Note: 1. You will be asked to sign work permit renewal documents and other relevant documents. 2. You will be asked to pick up your work permit booklet at the Phuket Provincial Employment Office with an IAC staff member within 2-4 weeks after your work permit application has been submitted by IAC. You must bring your original passport with you. IAC will make notify you via to make an appointment when your work permit is ready to be picked up. Documents needed to renew a work permit: 1. Original passport containing Non-B visa, departure card, and stamp of your latest entry into Thailand. 2. Original Work Permit. 3. Original medical certificates including your blood type and verification of examination for not being insane or mentally sick, suffering from leprosy, tuberculosis, drug addiction, alcoholism, elephantitus and tertiary syphilis. 21

22 Note: The certificates must be dated no longer than one month before the date of the application for your work permit. It is recommended that you see a doctor for the medical certificates after you prepare the other documents to be presented to the IAC. Important Note: When you have terminated your employment at PSU Phuket, your work permit and visa will be cancelled on your last working day, and after this you must leave Thailand within 24 hours, or get a 7 day (maximum) extension at the Immigration Office in Phuket Town, otherwise you may be fined for overstaying. Documents to be returned upon resignation: PSU ID Card and Original Work Permit. Payment of Thai taxes In Thailand, employees pay taxes at a progressive rate. As an employee at PSU Phuket, taxes are deducted monthly based on your salary. A university officer will prepare your tax forms for you. IAC will then submit your forms via the Revenue Office Online System. It is your responsibility to provide IAC with information regarding contributions you have made during the year to accepted charities, income received from other source(s), and deductible life insurance payments you have made. For married staff, please be sure to inform IAC of your spouse s name and the number of children you have. If any of the above apply to you, please be sure to inform the IAC immediately so that your tax form can be adjusted accordingly. Should you owe taxes, or are able to get a refund; IAC will inform you by . To get a tax refund you will get documents from the Revenue Office. These include the official letter from the Revenue Office and a Cheque. To redeem the cheque, please bring it with your bank book to a nearby bank. It is your responsibility to pay your taxes before the deadline, otherwise a penalty will apply. Payment can be conveniently made at any 7-11 or ATM machine as long as you have the tax document information from IAC. If you fail to pay before the deadline and incur a penalty, you will have to go to the tax office in Kathu yourself and arrange for your own transportation to get there. Neglecting to pay your taxes will affect the renewal of your work permit. Reminder: IAC is available to support you through this process. Note: For more information about the Tax Policy please visit 22

23 Social Security Insurance After your staff Work Permit has been issued, the IACwill provide you with a Social Security Insurance Application. Social Security Insurance will be deducted monthly from your overall salary (5%), but will not exceed 750 Baht per month (IMPORTANT NOTE: This Social Security Insurance DOES NOT cover accidents that occur at the WORKPLACE. In the case of workplace accidents, you can use the Group Accident Insurance (as indicated on pages 16 17). Your Social Security benefits will be available three months after your application, however, please keep in mind that deductions will begin approximately one month after the application is submitted. In many cases, an employee is hired with probationary status and can only begin the application process following official employment. Your Social Security can be used to pay for medical treatments at the hospital specified on the Social Security Card. When you sign up for Social Security Insurance, you will be asked to choose a hospital from the following: Mission Hospital (private), Vachira Hospital (government), Patong Hospital (government) or Phuket Provincial Hospital (government). All hospitals have English speaking doctors as well as some English speaking staff. Mission Hospital will be assigned during the time of your application; however the hospital can be changed at a later time subject to your preference (the period that you are allowed to change hospitals is between December and February each year). The Social Security Card is renewed annually. Please inform IAC if you wish to change your hospital affiliation. If you have family living with you in Thailand, they will not be covered by your Social Security Insurance, so you may want to investigate other options available such as private health insurance. Benefit Topic Benefit Time Frame Benefit Details Accident &Illness Disability Effective after 3 months of continuous deduction Effective after 3 months continuous deduction Free medical treatment at chosen hospital or chosen hospital-designated clinic Medical treatment fee 2,000 baht per month for outpatient and 4,000 baht per month for in-patient Death Effective after 1 monthof deduction Funeral fee 40,000 baht. Death refund depends on the amount of months you have paid Maternity (Female only) Child Support Unemployment Effective after 7 months of continuous deduction Effective after 3 months of continuous deduction Effective after 6 months of continuous deduction Child delivery fee 13,000 baht/delivery, 3 months leave with 50% of salary paid Child support fee 400baht/month/person Remarks: Only available for 3 children per person Child s age must be less than 6 years old Fired 50% of 180 days salary (termination without wrongdoing)resign 30% of 90 days salary (must report unemployment status to the Social Security Office within 30 days from the date of resignation) 23

24 Emergency Sickness or Injury Sickness Cash Benefits Cash benefit will be provided for illness, to receive medical treatment by physician s orders. In a calendar year, if the insured persons are on sick leaveand receive wages from their employer during sick leave for 30 days according to the Labour Protection Act of the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare, then they still have to take leave according to the physician s orders, the SSO will pay income replacement known as cash benefits to insured personsfor 50% of monthly wages, for not more than 90 days per time, but not more than 180 days in one calendar year, except for chronic diseasesfor which the insuredpersons will be paid cash benefits not more than 365 days. At present, the SSO defines 6 types of chronic diseases as follows:cancer, Chronic Renal Failure, Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS), Brain injury, injuries of the spinal cord and vertebrae which are followed by paralysis, Complications from bone fractures such as infection, delay of healing,deformity or plate and screw operations for treatment, or other diseases or sicknesses that require continuous medical treatment for more than 180 days. In case the insured person is unableto work during treatment, he or she has to submit a request for the approval of the Medical Committee. If you receive medical services from another hospital or clinic and pay the medical fee in advance, you are entitled to get a refund from the Social Security Office for the following specific rates: Admited to public hospitals or clinics o Out-patient: refund can be made as occurred as necessary. o In-patient: refund can be made as occurred as necessary within the duration of 72 hours. Cost of room not exceeding 700 baht. Admited to private hospitals or clinics o Out-patient: not exeeding 1,000 baht. o In-patient: Non ICU not exeeding 2,000 baht, ICU not exeeding 4,500 baht, major operation not exeeding 8,000-16,000 baht. Dental Services Tooth extraction, filling, removal of dental plaque and removable partial denture Regulations and Conditions: Tooth extraction, filling, removal of dental plaque and impacted tooth extraction can be reimbursed as actually incurred as necessary not exceeding 600 baht per calendar year. Removable partial denture expenses can be reimbursed as actually incurred as necessary not exceeding 1,500 baht within a period of 5 years from the date of fitting as follows: o 1-5 removable partial denture expenses can be reimbursed as actually incurred as necessary not exceeding 1,300 baht. o More than 5 removable partial denture expenses can be reimbursed as actually incurred as necessary not exceeding 1,500 baht. The removable complete denture expense can be reimbursed as actually incurred as necessary not exceeding 4,400 baht within a period of 5 years fromthe date of fitting as follows: o 1-5 removable complete denture expenses either upper or lower can be reimbursed as 24

25 Maternity Benefits actually incurred as necessary not exceeding 2,400 baht. o More than 5 removable complete denture expenses both upper and lower can be reimbursed as actually incurred as necessary not exceeding 4,400 baht. Note: To get a refund for dental treatment you must submit the following: Request for Dental Care Benefit (SSO 2-16) Medical certificate Medical Receipt Copy of Passport Medical Records of doctor (In case of reimbursement for acrylic denture base) A photocopy of the first page of the bankbook of the insured person showing name and account number (In case of receiving benefits through the Bank) Submit in person to either: Social Security Office in Phuket Town 15/4 Amphur Road, Taladyai, Muang District, Phuket Tel , , , Fax Social Security Office in Kathu 16/12-13 Phra Phuket Kaew Road, Kathu District, Phuket, Tel. Hotline: 1506, Office: The insured persons have to pay the social security fee for 20 months before the month of delivery, then they will receive maternity benefits as follows: No matter where the delivery occurs, the SSO will pay a lump sum at the rate of 13,000 baht per delivery. The female insured person will receive cash benefits at the rate of 50% of wages for up to 90 days. Note: In the case where both husband and wife are insured persons, they can receive a lump sum for each delivery up to 4 times. Birth certificate is needed as evidence. In the case where the female insured person requests for benefits, the name of the mother in the birth certificate has to be the name of that female insured person. In the case where the male insure d person requests for benefits, the name of father on the birth certificate has to be the name of that male insured person. Moreover, the name of mother on the birth certificate has to be the name of the wife as appears on the marriage certificate or the letter of certification confirming the status of de facto partners. In the case where the birth certificate was wrong due to mis-spelling, the insured person has to bring it back to the responsible authority to fix it. If it happens due to name changing, the insured person has to submit documents of the name changing or related evidence such as a divorce certificate. 25

26 Child Allowance Benefits The insured person has to pay contributions for a period of 48 months, then, he or she will receive 400 baht per month per child. Conditions An insured person shall be entitled to child allowance benefits for his or her legitimate child at the a ge of not over 6 years old and not exceeding two children at a time. If the insured person later becomes disabled or dead, such benefits still continue to a child until the age of 6. Child allowance shall be terminated with the following cases; when a child reaches the age of 6 a child is dead a child is adopted by another person the insured person ceases to be insured Old Age Benefits Qualifying conditions for old-age lump sum the insured person paidcontributions for a period of less than 180 months the insured person is unemployed being 55 years old or being disabled or dead Old-age lump sum benefits In case of paying contributions less than 12 months, the insured person will receive an old-age lump sum equal to the amount of the part of old-age benefits they paid for. If the contributions are paid for more than 12 months, the insured person will receive an old-age lump sum at the amount of the contributions that the insured person and employer paid for old-age benefits, including the interest according to the SSO announcement. Qualifying conditions for old-age pension The insured person has to pay contributions for a period of not less than 180 months whether the contributions are consecutively paid or not. Being 55 years old The insured person is unemployed Old Age Pension Benefits - In case of paying contributions not less than 180 months, the insured person will receive a monthly old-age pension. The pension amount is at the rate of 20 % of theaverage wage of the last 60 months before the insured person became unemployed. - In case of paying contributions more than 180 months, the pension rate will be increased at the rate of 1.5% per year of contributions over 180 months. - If the insured person dies within 60 months after receiving the old-age pension, an old-age lump sum will be paid to the survivor at the amount of 10 times of the last monthly old age pension. 26

27 Death Reimbursements In case of death due to non-work related injury and/or illness, the insured persons have to pay contributions at least 7 months before the month of death. Funeral grant of 40,000 baht shall be paid to the funeral manager. Dependant Survivor Allowance If the insured person has paid contributions for 36 months but not more than 10 years, the survivor will receive a grant fund equal to the average wage of 3 months.if the insured person has paid contributions for more than 10 years, the survivor will receive a grand fund equal to an average wage of 10 months. Who is a dependant survivor? A dependant survivor is the person whom the dead insured person specifies in the will as the eligible survivor; if there is no will, the amount will be shared equally amongspouse, father, mother and/or c hildren of the insured person.in the case where the insured person died, the eligible survivors can submit the SSO form for the Old Age Lump sum within one year. Compensation in the Case of Disability Loss of organ, loss of capacity of organs or body, or mentally ill, and cannot work as normal according to the criteria determined by the Announcement of Social Security Medical Committee. The insured person has to pay contributions for 18 months before the occurrence of disability. Benefits Medical expenses Medical services in public hospitals Outpatient: the medical expense can be reimbursed as actually incurred as necessary. Inpatient: the insured persons can receive medical services free of charge. The hospital will reimburse directly from the SSO Medical services in private hospitals Outpatient: the insured person can reimburse medical expenses as actually incurred not exceeding 2,000 baht per month. Inpatient: medical expenses can be reimbursed as actually incurred not exceeding 4,000 baht per month. - Ambulance or transportation fee not exceeding 500 baht per month. - For the disabled person who needs to receive rehabilitation service at the Industrial Rehabilitation Center, the SSO will provide expenses for physical and vocational rehabilitation according to the rules, conditions and rates prescribed in the Announcement - Cost of prosthetic devices and equipment will be provided according to the rules, conditions and rates as prescribed in the Announcement. Cash Benefits - The insured person will receive 50 percent of the monthly wage for their whole life, for example, average wage/month is 10,000 baht, 50 percent of the average wage/month would be 5,000 baht. 27

28 Funeral Grant - When the disabled insured person is dead, the funeral manager will receive 40,000 baht for the funeral expenses. Grant Fund for Survivors If the insured person has paid contributions for 3 years but not more than 10 years, the survivor will receive a grant fund equal to one and a half of the insured person s monthly average wage. If the insured person has paid contributions for more than 10 years, the survivor will receive a grant fund equal to 5 months of the insured person s average wage. Reimbursement for Old Age benefits The insured person can reimburse all accumulated old age benefits and must submit claims within 1 year since the date of approval to be invalidity. For more details please visithttp:// Vacations/Sick leave/holidays For PSU Phuket employees, the university allows 10 days annual vacation with full pay per year starting after the first six months of employment. During the first six months, the employee may take unpaid leave with the approval of the employee s supervisor. Supervisors must also approve paid days off. The employee should request a Leave Form from the supervisor or administration offices. If an employee is planning on traveling overseas during leave, a request should be made with the university administration. Permission can be obtained using the same form but may take longer, so it is advised to allow plenty of time prior to your travel date to submit the form. Employment contracts allow for a maximum of 15 paid sick days leave per year. Should the employee miss more than five consecutive working days, a certificate from an officially accepted physician must be submitted to the supervisor upon returning to work. With regard to holidays, the university follows the Thai government schedule of holidays including those that fall on a school day. It is important to note that instructors may choose to reschedule lecturesfor the time lost due to holidays. 28

29 Staff Banking When you relocate to Phuket as a PSU Phuket employee, you will need to open a bank account. The recommended option is: Krung Thai Bank (KTB) PCL Central Festival Phuket Mueang Phuket, Phuket IAC will provide a letter issued by the Vice President that verifies your employment, which you can present with your passport upon applying for a bank account. PSU Phuket makes direct salary deposits to KTB. The closest full service branch is located on the 2 nd floor of the Central Festival Shopping Center. After you have opened a savings account, the cost is around 230 Baht to obtain an ATM card. At the time you open an account you will be asked to sign some documents and create a 4 digit pass code to use with your ATM card. The entire process, from start to finish will take about 30 minutes. Once you have your bank account, please bring a copy of the first page of your bank book with your bank account number on it to IAC. Once you receive your Work Permit, you can take it to the branch and show a bank official so you can receive interest on your account. Prior to receiving your work permit, or should you fail to bring your work permit to the bank, you will not receive interest. Be sure to make a copy of the information page of your bankbook to share with the Finance Office so they can arrange to make a direct deposit. PSU ID card New staff members will need to fill in a form upon arrival at PSU to apply for their PSU Staff ID Card. You will need to know your blood type for this as well, and clearly state your working position. After the application, you will receive your ID card within 1 month. This Card is extremely useful for your stay in Thailand, as you can use it as your passport to travel domestically by airplane. It is also a useful form of identification when dealing with government officials, police, hospitals, etc. 29

30 Essential Information for Students Student Uniform Uniform Etiquette 1. Always wear your uniform on campus 2. Be sure to wear proper shoes to classes/offices on campus 3. Shirts should be tucked into trousers and skirts 4. Uniforms should be modest: females should avoid wearing tight body shirts and skirts that are either too short or too long Note: Slippers are not acceptable footwear Females 1. Shirt: short-sleeved 2. University badges: one pinned to the left collar. The other on the right chest side 3. Skirt: black 4. Belt: regulated university belt 5. Socks: white, long or short 6. Shoes: black or white closed shoes Males 1. Shirt: long-sleeved 2. Necktie 3. University badge: pinned to necktie 4. Long trousers: black 5. Belt: regulated university belt 6. Socks: black 7. Shoes: black 30

31 Banking and Student ID Card When you enroll at PSU Phuket, you will need to open a bank account to pay your tuition. A branch of SCB is conveniently located just outside the back gate of the PSU Phuket campus for your convenience. The Siam Commercial Bank PCL: Prince of Songkla University/Phuket Sub Branch 80 M.1 Wichitsongkram Road Kathu, Phuket In order to open an account at SCB you will need a passport and your local contact information. After opening a savings account, you must pay around 300 Baht for the ATM card. You will be asked to sign some documents and create a 4 digit pass code to use with your ATM card. The entire process, from start to finish, takes about 30 minutes. After one month you will receive an ATM card in the mail which you will also use as your PSU Student ID and your PSU Phuket Library Card. If you lose your card, you will have to pay 100 baht for it to be replaced. Special circumstances regarding banking: If you do not need to open a bank account to pay your tuition, you will still have to get a PSU Student ID Card. For a Temporary PSU Phuket Student ID Card, go to the Registration Section, 1 st floor, Administration Building (Bldg. 7). Bring your passport and ID sized student photos. The Temporary Card can be issued immediately, and there is no charge. Once you have your Temporary PSU Phuket Student ID Card, you will need to apply for your Permanent PSU Student ID Card. Visit the International Affairs Centre (IAC) on the 2 nd floor of the Administration Building (Bldg. 7), and pick up an application. Bring the completed application to Siam Commercial Bank (SCB), with a student photo and passport. You will then be issued your permanent PSU Phuket Student ID Card. There is no charge to have your Permanent ID made; however, if you lose it, you will have to pay 100 baht for it to be replaced. 31

32 Graduation Requirements: Extracurricular Activities As undergraduates, all students are required to complete at least 17 extracurricular activities with a minimum of 100 unit hours, according to thecurriculum prescribed by the University. Objective: PSU undergraduate students are expected to develop social consciousness and pride as members of the PSU community; to improve Thai life skills, morals and ethics, and overall, reinforce their role as Children of the Father, the Prince of Songkla, founder of PSU. Two components of the requirement: Activities:Students are required to complete no less than 7 activities and 40 unit hoursof activities which support their personal development, preparation for readiness to be a student, promotion of public consciousness, morals, ethics, discipline,personality, leadership and guidance in life planning after graduation. Theseactivities are compulsory. Electives: In addition, students are required to complete no less than 10 activities and 60 unit hours of activities of their choice. Students are required to participate in at least 2 activities in each of the 5 categories below. a) Development of Consciousness: Activities that reinforce social consciousness, morals, ethics and discipline. b) Development of Social, Academic, and Professional Skills: Activities focusing on skill development for living and working globally. c) Development of PSU Pride: Activities that reinforce pride in being part of the PSU community. d) Development of Intercultural Understanding and the Realization of Democracy: Activities focusing on understanding of plurality in religion, race, nationality, language and culture, merging different cultures, and promoting democracy. e) Development of Health & Wellness: Activities involving physical exercise, recreation, and the development of concentration and mental abilities. 32

33 Measurements: Experience Value Measurement: An extracurricular activity project may consist of one or more activities, and is determined per project per activity, depending on the nature of the activity. Unit Hour Measurement is measured by the hours a student actually joins an activity, according to the agenda, and not including traveling time, rest periods and meals. Note: Students who serve in a leadership capacity or serve on committees for a period of one year receive additional points. Transfer students: Transfer students, either transferring from another university or from one Faculty to another may request Experience Equivalent Value Measurement and Units Measurement from their new Faculty. It is important that transfer students make an appointment with an administrator to discuss this. Accessing activity/unit hours: 1. Visit the website: 2. Enter your student code and select Phuket campus 3. Click Transcript or By Type to find the report on Extracurricular Activities Resignation Process and Temporary Leave If a student decides to resign or take a break from their studies, they must contact their faculty advisor and the academic office to fill in the paperwork. 33

34 Getting to Know Thailand Working Hours for Thai Officials Official working hours: 08.30am 16.30pm Financial working hours: 08.30am 15.30pm Holidays January 2 nd Saturday of January - Thai Children s Day: In Thailand, children are considered the most valuable resources and future of the nation. On this special government holiday, the government assists with celebrations throughout the country to make children aware of the responsibility they have to right action and duty, in order to help assure the nations prosperity. On this day, parents take children under 14 years old to enjoy traditional activities and events like taking a trip to the zoo or special festivities. The government also invites children to ride all public transportation for free on this one day of the year. End of January or beginning of February - Chinese New Year: While not an official public holiday, Chinese New Year is celebrated wherever there are people of Chinese ancestry. In Thailand it is celebrated on the first day of the Chinese Lunar month that marks the beginning of spring, the growing season. Chinese New Year is the most important holiday of the year for Chinese people and is intended as a special occasion for individuals to offer thanks and pay tribute to their ancestors. Celebrations can last for days ending with firecrackers. Chinese people usually wear red on this day because they believe it will bring blessing. It is a custom to give envelopes of paper money as gifts within one s family. Phuket has a large Chinese population, so festivities here are usually on a grand scale with dragon processions and lion dances. March Day of the third Lunar Month: MakhaBucha This Buddhist holiday commemorates the day 1250 disciples ordained by the Buddha returned to honor him. The Buddha gave them the following principles: To cease from evil, To do what is good, and To cleanse one s mind. Forty-four years later, on the same day, the Buddha decided to leave his body and die. Many Buddhists on this day go to temples to make merit. Many also participate in processions in the evening. April 6: Chakri Memorial Day: Chakri Memorial Day is a public holiday that celebrates the founding of the Chakri Dynasty in King BhumibolAdulyadej, King Rama IX of the Chakri Dynasty, the current reigning King of Thailand, is the 9 th ruler in this dynasty. On this day people do merit and the royal family leads special traditional activities. 34

35 13-15: Songkran: This holiday is Thai New Year and takes place at the end of the hottest and driest season. It is celebrated throughout the country with parades, family gatherings and water. Traditionally, young Thais pour scented water gently over the hands of their elders as a sign of respect. This custom has evolved over the years to a general splashing of the whole population with some of the larger cities reduced to outdoor showers and water fights. It is also the weekend in Thailand with the most reported highway fatalities due to excessive consumption of alcohol. May 1: Thai National Labor Day - This public holiday acknowledges and celebrates the contribution of Thai labor workers to the country. However, government offices are open. 5: Coronation Day - This public holiday in Thailand is set aside to observe the coronation of King Rama IX on the 5 th of May1946. Royal Ploughing Ceremony Day This holiday is an ancient rite observed in Thailand and Cambodia to mark the traditional beginning of the rice-growing ceremony. It takes place during the sixth Thai lunar month, but the actual date of the ceremony is not fixed exactly. It has to be announced by the astrologers at the Bureau of the Royal Household. Once it has been announced, the Cabinet will approve a public holiday for that date. This public holiday is also sometimes referred to as Thai Farmer s Day. 31: VisakhaBucha Day - This public holiday marks three important incidents in the life of Lord Buddha: birth, the date when he reached enlightenment, and when he passed away. On this date, Buddhists throughout the world gather together to worship, recollect the wisdom, purity and compassion of Buddha. June Wai Kru Day (Teacher Homage Day) - This day, while not a public holiday, is a day set aside to honor teachers. PSU Phuket usually cancels classes in the morning to hold the traditional Wai Kru ceremony. Students create elaborate flower arrangements and offer them to the university lecturers and administrators as a sign of respect. They do this by kneeling and kowtowing to the university representatives after first showing respect to the Buddha. They also bring small garlands of flowers to the lecturers and when kneeling in front of the university representative they ask for words of wisdom or blessing. (This is not Teacher s Day, Teacher s Day is on January 16 th each year). July Day before full moon: AsarnhaBucha Day - This Buddhist holiday, also a public holiday throughout Thailand, commemorates the first sermon of the Buddha to his five disciples. Of the five, one asked to become a monk. This day is marked with candlelit processions. It deals with Buddha, Dharma and Sangha, the three Gems or Jewels of Buddhism. 35

36 Day after AsarnhaBucha Day: Buddhist Lent Day - This is a government holiday marking the beginning of the 3 month Buddhist rain retreat when traditionally monks stay in the forest during the duration of the rainy season. Monks living in town are not allowed to sleep outside their temple during this period. Devotees buy big candles to offer to the temples. August 12: Queen s Birthday/Mother s Day - Thais revere the Royal Family and the celebration of the Queen s Birthday, the mother of all mothers.this is a national holiday set aside for Thais to celebrate and express their respect and love for her and for their own mothers. In conjunction with this special day, public buildings are closed as well as many businesses. Part of celebrating involves decorating homes and offices, which traditionally begins several weeks prior to the holiday. People take to the streets and often go to malls and restaurants to celebrate. Festivities are most apparent in cities where people come out to walk in the evening and light fire crackers. Prior to the holiday, students in schools are reminded to celebrate and honor their own mothers. October 23: Chulalongkorn Memorial Day - This day celebrates the reign of King Chulalongkorn the Great ( ), considered the father of modern Thailand, and marks the day of his death. In Thailand it is customarily believed that the King has miraculous powers and can bestow good luck and prosperity on worshippers. November Day of the full moon: Loy Krathong - While not a national holiday, Loy Krathong or Festival of Lights, is considered one of the best preserved of all traditional Thai holidays and is celebrated on the day of the full moon in November. People create a krathong, a small ornately decorated boat usually made of banana leaves and other natural materials which can float. The krathongincludes some flowers and a small candle and is placed in a body of water at night time in ponds, rivers, the sea, and sometimes even swimming pools where groups of people are gathered. The tradition includes sending the krathongafloat and asking for atonement of wrong doings in the past year, and good luck in the coming year. December 5: Birthday of His Majesty King Bhumibol/Father s Day - King Bhumibol, the longest reigning King of Thailand, was born on this day in He is recognized as a symbol of the nation, its heart and soul. This holiday is also known as Father s Day in Thailand. 10: Constitution Day This holiday is held annually to commemorate the advent of the regime of Constitutional Monarchy in Thailand. 36

37 Electrical Voltage Electrical voltage in Thailand is 220 volts so if you have any 110 volt appliances, be sure to use a voltage converter. If you live on campus, you will need an Ethernet cable to connect your laptop with the Ethernet socket in your room. Thai Culture Although Phuket is a major tourist destination creating a typical beach culture of sorts, the fact remains that Phuket is in Thailand and Thai culture is fundamentally a conservative one. Thailand is a Kingdom. Thais revere the royal family, most especially the King, King BhumibolAdulyadej. HM has reigned over Thailand through some very tumultuous times for over 60 years. It is not acceptable to criticize the King or any other member of the royal family. You should never disparage the royal family even if you think you are just being amusing. Thailand is a Buddhist nation. Buddhist monks, seen everywhere in their saffron robes, are highly respected. Women should be careful to remain a comfortable distance away from monks as they are forbidden contact with women. Visitors to Buddhist monasteries must take their shoes off before entering a temple. Teachers are also highly respected. A professor/lecturer is specially addressed in Thai: Ajarn. It is, therefore, important for the university lecturer to maintain a certain decorum deserving of this respect. To cause a Thai to lose face is a serious breach of social etiquette. Saving face means allowing a Thai person to find a way out of an uncomfortable situation without a negative result to their sense of self. With some efforts and practice you will find ways to help your colleague or student correct a mistake without causing them to lose face over the mistake. The wai is the traditional manner in which Thais greet each other. This is a gesture where the palms of the hands are pressed together, prayer-like. Thais will give the wai as a sign of respect as well as a greeting/farewell gesture to their seniors. 37

38 Cultural Awareness Do not touch a Thai person s head because it is considered the most important part of the body. Try to maintain your head at the same level as others. If other people are seated on the floor, you should avoid standing over them for a prolonged period of time. Do not stick your feet out in front of you. Do not point with your feet or put them up on a table in front of where you are sitting. It is considered impolite to point your finger directly at someone. When eating with Thais, several dishes are usually ordered. Take a bit of each dish at a time. Do not pile the food on your plate. Thais generally eat with a spoon and a fork with the spoon in their right hand. Chopsticks are used for noodle dishes. To be hygienic, it is recommended that people use shared spoons for shared dishes. Phuket Phuket is Thailand s largest island. It is located off the west coast of Thailand in the Andaman Sea. The island is connected to mainland Thailand by two bridges. Phuket formerly derived its wealth from tin and rubber, and has enjoyed a rich and colorful history. The island was once one of the major trading routes between India and China, and was frequently mentioned in foreign ship logs of Portuguese, French, Dutch and English traders. The region now derives much of its income from tourism. Climate Phuket has a tropical climate, more specifically a tropical monsoon climate, with a dry season from November to April and a rainy season from May to October. Average temperatures are quite consistent yearround. 38

39 Getting Around Car Rental Service: There are numerous car rental services in Phuket. Cars or jeeps can be rented at the airport, in Phuket Town, and at most of the more popular beaches. Be aware that only Commercial First Class Insurance provides full coverage on rental cars, as opposed to limited personal or third party only insurance. Most international car rental agencies will offer this insurance, some only for those with a valid international driver s license, while local companies may or may not. You may wish to request a copy of the car rental service insurance policy and ensure that it states "For Commercial Use. Regardless, inspect rental vehicles prior to rental and drive with caution, particularly as traffic in Thailand can be quite confusing, especially the habit of Thai motorcycleridersthatride on the wrong side of the road. Motorbike Rental: For around 150 to 300 baht per day you can hire your own cc motorbike, which will typically require you to leave your passport as a deposit. Be sure to inspect bikes prior to rental and ride with extreme caution as rental motorbikes are not normally insured and accidents are frequent. Helmets are required by Thai law. PSU Shuttle Bus: The PSU Phuket Shuttle Bus Express has been operating for over a year providing convenient free transportation from on campus to Central, Big C and Tesco. The shuttle bus picks up passengers in front of the Canteen at 5 pm on weekdays. A return trip will pick-up passengers again at approximately 8:30 pm from the place they were dropped off. On weekends the pick-ups are 10 am and 5 pm with returns at 12:30 pm and 8:30 pm. Both students and staff utilize this service, especially those who otherwise have no transportation or are seeking to reduce their carbon footprints. Note: The shuttle bus is not in service during holidays and may be cancelled on occasion due to unforeseen circumstances. IAC will keep you informed. For details please contact iacpsu@gmail.com. Motorcycle Taxis: This service costs approximately 60 baht / person / trip to travel via motorcycle taxi around Phuket Town. Songtaew and Tuk-Tuk: Songtaews (or Pho thong in the local language) are operated along Ranong Road in Phuket Town to various destinations including most beaches. The cost ranges from 30 baht to 50 baht / person / trip. Normally the service is provided from 7:00 am until 5:00 pm daily. Tuk-Tuks can be chartered for travel between the beaches and Phuket Town or between different beaches; however, rates are negotiable and will cost at least 300 baht from campus to Patong Beach, 350 baht to Karon and Kata Beaches, and 400 baht to NaiHarn and Kamala Beaches. Taxi Meter: Visitors can call to get a metered taxi that will take them anywhere in Phuket. The metered fare will include a 100 baht surcharge. Boat to islands near Phuket: Boats to nearby islands can be found at the following ports: 39

40 Rawai Beach: An old local port, it is from here that long-tail boats depart for nearby islands such as Koh He, KohRachaYai, Koh Mai Thon, Koh Lon, etc. The chartered price depends on the distance. AoChalong: The largest port of Phuket servicing all kinds of boats, including cruisers of tour companies that organize package tours to other islands. AoMakham: Located near Phanwa Cape, this port is only for cruisers and container ships. Boat Lagoon Port (AoSapam): This port is for traveling boats of tour companies. Local Events Chalong Temple Fair: This is an annual fair at Chalong Temple (Wat Chalong), Phuket s largest temple. It is held every year around Chinese New Year. It features fair rides, stalls with clothes, handicrafts, furniture, flowers, fruit, toys, snacks, games and plenty of food, as well as live music at night, a great cultural experience. Thao ThepKrasattri and Thao Si Sunthon Fair: This event is held on March 13 th every year to commemorate the two great heroines who rallied the Thalang people to resist Burmese invaders. Vegetarian Festival: This event is held on the first day of the 9th lunar month at the end of September or early October. Phuket islanders of Chinese ancestry commit themselves to a 9-day vegetarian diet, a form of purification believed to help make the forthcoming year trouble-free. The festival is marked by several ascetic displays, including fire-walking and ascending sharp-bladed ladders. Phuket King s Cup Regatta: This event is held in December. The Kata Beach Resort hosts international yachtsmen, largely from neighboring countries who compete in the Kata Beach area for royal trophies. Laguna Phuket Triathlon: This event is held each December. The triathlon includes a 1,800 meter (5,900 feet) swim, a 55 kilometer (34 mile) bike race and a 12 kilometer (7.5 mile) run as well as a 6 kilometer (3.7 mile) fun run. It attracts many athletes from all over the world. Phuket Travel Fair: This fair starts on November 1 st and is usually called the Patong Carnival from the place where the celebration originates. Colorful parades, sports events, and a beauty competition for foreign tourists are major activities. Chao Le (Sea Gypsy) Boat Floating Festival: This event falls during the middle of the sixth and eleventh lunar month each year. The sea gypsy villages at Rawai and Sapam hold their ceremonies on the 13 th, Ko Si-re celebrates on the 14 th, and Laem La (east of the bridge on Phuket s northern tip) on the 15th. Ceremonies, which center on setting adrift small boats similar to the Thai festival of LoiKrathong, are held at night and their purpose is to drive away evil and bring good luck. 40

41 Important Safety Recommendations IAC would like to remind you of some key safety recommendations during your stay in Phuket.Please be responsible and use caution and common sense at all times. Tourist scams are quite common in Phuket. The following are a few important recommendations that we would appreciate you follow: Recommendations: 1. Always wear your helmet when riding your motorcycle, and have with you your driver s license and a photocopy of your passport. 2. Padlock your rented motorcycle. 3. Never leave your passport as a deposit when hiring transport but by all means leave a photocopy. Thai law implicitly states that you must have your passport with you. 4. When renting accommodations, always make sure that you legally sign a rental contract with the Juristic Management or the owner and retain one original copy. Also always keep proper receipts of payment, issued by either of the above for future reference if needed. 5. Swimming flags and warning signs on the beaches are to be taken seriously, when the signs say no swimming, follow the rules. 6. When taking a taxi, insist that the driver turn on the taxi meter, or else you may be overcharged. 7. When taking a tuk-tuk, always agree on the fare before you get on. 8. Make sure you memorize and take note of the expiry date of the arrivalstamp in your passport. If you overstay, it will cost you 500 baht per day that you overstay. 9. When using an ATM to withdraw money, always make sure to cover the numbers with your hand when typing your pin code. Also, remember that in Thailand money comes out first and then your card, so please don t forget your card in the machine. 10. When drinking at bars, make sure you buy your own drinks and that all bottles are opened in front of you. You must be extremely vigilant when out at bars or discotheques at night, and always avoid getting into arguments. 11. Please respect Thai culture and traditions. 12. When visiting temples and sacred locations, always wear t-shirts with sleeves and shorts/pants below the knees. 13. The Tourist Police phone number is

42 Cultural Events and Activities PSU and IAC will organize various fun and interesting cultural events and activities throughout the year for international staff and students. The following are some of the previous events and activities: From Top (Left to Right) to Bottom: International Student Orientation, Chalong Temple Trip, Kathu Chinese Shrine Parade, IAC Excursion to Bang-Pat Dairy Hut Farm, Activities with Locals, Trip to Nai Yang Beach, International Staff and Student Orientation, CSR Activities with Students from Japan, PhromThep Cape Trip, and IAC Get Together. 42

43 Housing On-Campus Staff: There are apartments available on campus for PSU Staff. The apartment units have 2 bedrooms with air conditioning, kitchen, living room, bathroom, and balconies, fully furnished, with a cost of 5,000 THB per month (excluding electricity and water). For more information please contact your faculty. Students: There are 23 rooms for international students on campus at PSU Phuket. Female students can stay in the Female Dormitory (15 rooms) while male students can stay in the Male Dormitory (8 rooms). Each room is for a maximum of 2 students, fully furnished. The rental rate is 5,000 baht per month per room (excluding electricity and water), if the room is shared between two people, it is 2,500 baht per month per person. Electricity and water are calculated separately at a monthly basis. The dormitories include study areas, washing machines, a laundry service and coffee shop. For more information please contact IAC. Off-Campus There are various accommodation options for both staff and students. Some accommodations nearby PSU Phuket campus include but are not limited to the following: Name: The Scene Location: Kathu Phuket Property type: Condominium Room type: 1 bedroom for 2 people Price: 10,000 THB per month* Furniture: Fully furnished with kitchen tools Facilities: Free Wifi, Cable TV, Fitness, Swimming Pool, Car Park Security: 24 hr Security Guard, CCTV, Finger Scanner To PSU Phuket: 3-5 minutes by Motorcycle/Car or 5-10 minutes walk *PSU Contract Rate, please make sure you refer to this rate when contacting the Juristic Management Contact: Tel: , info@thescenecondo.com 43

44 Name: Baan Maksong Location: Kathu Phuket Property type: Hotel Room type: 1 bedroom for 2 people Price: 1,000-1,500 THB per night with Breakfast, depending on the time of year* Facilities: Free Wifi, Cable TV, Fitness, Swimming Pool, Car Park Security: 24 hr Security Guard, CCTV, Key Card, Finger Scanner To PSU Phuket: 3-5 minutes by Motorcycle/Car or 5 minutes walk *PSU Contract Rate, please make sure you refer to this rate when contacting the Reservation Office Contact: 96/1 Moo 7, Wichitsongkram Road, Kathu, Phuket 83120, Thailand. Tel: Fax: rsvn@baanmaksong.com Website: Name: Baan Nueng Location: Erawadee- KetHo, Kathu Phuket Property type: Apartment Room type: Studio 1 bedroom for 2 people Price: 5,000 6,500 THB per month Furniture: Fully Furnished Facilities: Internet, Cable TV Security: CCTV, Key Card To PSU Phuket: 3-5 minutes by Motorcycle/Car or 5-10 minutes walk Contact: 11/11 Moo 1, Vichitsongkram Road, Kathu, Phuket Tel: Fax: baannueng@hotmail.com, baannueng@gmail.com Website: 44

45 Name: Baan Suan Place Location: Vichit, Muang Phuket Property type: Apartment Room type: 1 bedroom for 2 people Price: 9,000 16,000 THB per month Furniture: Fully Furnished Facilities: Internet, Cable TV, Car park, Swimming Pool Security: Security guard 24 hrs. CCTV, Key Card To PSU Phuket: 5-10 minutes by Motorcycle/Car Contact: 38/3 Moo 5, Bangyai Rd., Vichit, Muang, Phuket Tel: Fax: info@baansuanplace.com Website: Name: D Condo, D Condo Creek or D Condo Mine, Kathu. Provided by Sansiri Property Location: Kathu, Phuket Property type: Condominium Room type: Studio, 1 bedroom sqm for 2 people, 2 bedrooms 60 sqm for 4 people Price: 10,000 35,000 THB per month Furniture: Fully Furnished Facilities: Fitness, Swimming pool, Car park Security: Security Guard 24 hrs, Key Card entry, CCTV To PSU Phuket: 5-10 minutes by Motorcycle/Car Contact: Plus Property Company Limited-Phuket Branch 69/17 Visitsongkram Rd., Kathu, Kathu, Phuket Mobile: +66(0) Ms. SiriratBoonpitak Tel: Fax: sirirat@plus.co.th Website: 45

46 Name: Patara Buree Mansion Location: Kathu Phuket Property type: Mansion Room type: Studio 1 bedroom for 2 people Price: 4,000 8,500 THB per month Furniture: Fully Furnished Facilities: Internet, Cable TV, Car park Security: Security guard 24 hrs, CCTV, Finger scanner To PSU Phuket: 5-10 minutes by Motorcycle/Car or minutes walk Contact: 94/83 Moo 7, Vichitsongkram Road, Kathu Phuket Tel: , info@pataraburee.com Website: Name: Ratchaporn Condominium Location: Kathu Phuket Property type: Condominium Room type: Studio 1 bedroom sqm for 2 people Price: 10,000 15,000 THB per month Furniture: Fully Furnished Facilities: Swimming Pool, Fitness, Car park Security: Security Guard 24 hrs, CCTV To PSU Phuket: 5-10 minutes by Motorcycle/Car or 5-10 minutes walk Contact: MEGA Property 200/70 Moo.6 Visitsongkram Rd., Kathu, Kathu, Phuket Mobile: +66(0) Ms. KanraweeMisonou Tel: kanrawee@megapmc.com Website: Note: You can also visit search for accommodation in Phuket. Remarks: Please be reminded that when renting accommodations, always make sure that you legally sign a rental contract with the Juristic Management or the owner and retain one original copy. Also always keep proper receipts of payment, issued by either of the above for future reference if needed. 46

47 Airport Transportation By Taxi Taxi is the most convenient way of getting to/from campus to/from the airport as there is no direct airport bus connection. Traveling by taxi is also the most expensive. A one way trip is approximately baht depending on the time of day. There is a taxi counter service at the Arrival Hall of Phuket International Airport. By Bus While it is complicated to travel from the airport to the university by bus, it is the cheapest option. There are two possible route options. Option 1: At the airport, you can take the airport bus to Phuket Town. Ask the bus driver to stop in front of Surakul Football Stadium. Then walk across the road to catch a Phuket Town Patong Bus. The bus will stop at the main road in front of the university and you will have to walk around meters up the hill in order to reach the Main Gate. You can ask the bus driver to stop at Mor Or once you get on the bus. If you would like to get to the Airport from Kathu, you can go to either Big C or Central Festival Phuket to catch the bus. For more details, please contact Airport Bus tel or visit their website at It is best to call and check the schedule with the company before planning your trip. Option 2: There is another airport bus that travels a different route, going from the airport through Thalang, Kathu, Kata, Karon and ending in Patong. For more details, please contact tel , or visit their website at Important Phone Numbers Phuket International Hospital (also known as Sirirot Hospital) Vachira Hospital (Social Security Hospital) Mission Hospital (Social Security Hospital) Phuket Bangkok Hospital Ambulance Emergency call 1669 Police station Emergency call 191 Fire Department 199 Security Guards at the Campus Gates

48 Lost Passport Steps: 1. Inform IAC 2. Report your lost passport to a nearby Police Station a. Obtain Police Report Document 3. Report to your Embassy a. Obtain Certificate of New Passport 4. Visit IAC with your new passport and the Police Report and Embassy Certificate to process the documents to transfer your visa to your new passport at Phuket Immigration. Lost Student ID card Steps: 1. Report to a nearby Police Station a. Obtain Police Report Document 2. Bring Police Report, Student Photos and 100 Baht fee to the PSU Phuket Registration Office to get a temporary Student ID Card 3. Contact the Siam Commercial Bank (SCB) PSU Phuket branch (Tel ) a. Bring your Bank Book Lost Staff ID card Steps: 1. Report to a nearby Police Station a. Obtain Police Report Document 2. Contact IAC a. Bring Police Report 48

49 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Visa, Work Permit, and Enrollment VISA What type of visa do I need for PSU? Answer: To Work: Non-Immigrant B Visa To Study: Non-Immigrant ED Visa Guest Lecturer: Non-Immigrant O Visa Visitor: Tourist Visa or Visa upon Arrival (30 days) depending on Country of Passport *NOTE: For Non-Immigrant B and ED Visas, you must apply for a SINGLE ENTRY visa. Where can I get my visa? Answer: At any Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in any country OUTSIDE of Thailand How can I get my visa (What do I need?) Answer: After PSU has approved you to STUDY or WORK or VISIT PSU, the IAC will provide the following: - Letter to the Royal Thai Embassy from the Vice President of PSU Phuket (in Thai) - Letter of approval to work, study or visit PSU Phuket - Copy of Contract to Work at PSU - Other required documents You must provide photocopies of your passport Please check the website of the Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate in the country you plan to apply for the visa, because each Embassy/Consulate has slightly different requirements. You can also visit our website: Do I need to pay for my visa? And how much does it cost? Answer: Yes, for a Non-Immigrant B and ED (Single Entry) the price is approximately 2,200-3,000 Thai Baht (depending on the Country in which you apply). The first visa that you obtain you must pay for by yourself. Once you have a visa and you need to EXTEND your visa, if you are a STUDENT you must pay by yourself, but if you are WORKING at PSU Phuket, the respective faculty/department will pay for your visa extension for you. 49

50 When do I need to extend my visa? Answer: Students: On or before the date that your visa expires Staff: At the end of each fiscal year (before the date that your visa expires) *NOTE: You can extend your visa from 45 days before it expires. When you get your first visa, you are allowed to stay in Thailand for an initial period of a maximum 90 days, before the end of the 90 days, IAC will prepare the necessary documents to get a visa extension, and an IAC staff member will accompany you to the Immigration Office in Phuket Town to extend your visa. Is there any other important information that I need to know? Answer: If you want to leave Thailand (i.e. for a holiday), you must first go to the Immigration Office in Phuket Town to apply for a Re-Entry Permit, since your visa is a Single Entry Visa. If you leave Thailand WITHOUT a Re-Entry Permit, when you return to Thailand your visa will be cancelled and you will have to apply for a new visa again. Every 90 days you MUST report yourself to the Immigration Office in Phuket Town, otherwise you will have to pay a fine. WORK PERMIT Who needs to apply for a work permit? Answer: Anyone who has a Non-Immigrant B Visa (i.e. is working at PSU Phuket as a staff member, lecturer, teacher, etc.) IAC will apply for the work permit for you (the faculty/department that employs you will pay for your work permit). *NOTE: You will have to sign various documents and get a Medical Certificate. An IAC staff member will accompany you to pick up your Work Permit when it is ready at the Phuket Labor Office in Phuket Town. Should I get a Medical Certificate for every work permit application and renewal? What are the diseases that must be verified in the certificate? Answer: Yes, you must obtain a medical certificate for every work permit application and renewal. The examination must verify that you are not insane or mentally sick, suffering from Leprosy, Tuberculosis, Drug addiction, Alcoholism, Elephantitus and Tertiary Syphilis. You can get a Medical Certificate for your work permit at any hospital in Phuket, but we recommend Mission Hospital. 50

51 How long will my visa and/or work permit last? Answer: The Non-Immigrant B Visa which you received initially will be for 90 days and then IAC will extend your visa at the Phuket Immigration Office until the end of your employment contract (and in accordance to the fiscal year). Work permit applications and renewals will follow the period identified in your employment contract. Do I have to carry my work permit booklet with me at all times? Answer: Yes, you must carry your work permit booklet with you at all times and be ready to show it to the Police and/or Labor Officers at any time. When do I have to apply for my tax number and tax ID card? Answer: You must apply for your tax number and tax ID card after you receive your work permit. You may be asked to sign the application at the IAC office after you have received your work permit. When will the annual personnel tax income be applied? Answer: Tax income will be applied via the Revenue Office s online system. IAC will take responsibility for the application. The application period is from the end of February until April. What should I do during the tax application period? Answer: You must provide information and documents that are required for the personnel tax application (for example if you have a spouse, children and insurance). Moreover, you must check your frequently as the IAC office will keep you updated and informed. The IAC will inform you of any tax information, requirements, and if you have a tax refund or tax payment. When must I apply for Social Security? Answer: You must apply for your Social Security after you have received your work permit. The IAC Office will ask you to sign the application form and select a hospital (Mission Hospital and Vachira Hospital in Phuket are the recommended options). 51

52 When will the Social Security be effective? Answer: After your Social Security application, not more than 5% of your monthly salary will be deducted at the end of each month for your Social Security (not more than 750 Thai Baht). Your Social Security will become effective 3 months after your application and having paid on a monthly basis. You will get your SSC Card from the Personnel Section. You can go to the hospital that is identified on the SSC Card, where payment will be claimed by the Social Security. For more information regarding Social Security please visit ENROLLMENT When can I apply to study at PSU Phuket? Answer: The application period usually starts around 6 months before the start of the first semester, and ends around2 months before the start of the first semester. What extra fees do I have to pay on top of tuition? Answer: If you are enrolled in a program in the Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism (FHT) or the Faculty of International Studies (FIS),you are required to pay an administration fee of 40,000 Thai Baht in addition to your tuition fees during your first year.this administration fee can be paid in 3 parts, for the first semester you must pay 25,000 Thai Baht, and the second andthird semester 7,500 Thai Baht each. When can I register for my courses? Answer: Online registration usually takes place starting around a week before the first day of each semester. 52

53 Closing Remarks: We at IAC hope that this handbook has provided some clear information for you and will help guide you through your time here at PSU and in Thailand. If you have any further queries, or would just like to have a chat, feel free to contact us or drop by the IAC office at any time. We hope you enjoy your stay at PSU, Phuket, Thailand. Kind Regards from the IAC Team Last edit July