The Thailand Elite Visa offers a streamlined and rewarding path to long-term residency, making it an attractive choice for those seeking stability in Thailand. Because of the high level of public interest, our Elite Visa agents get many questions about what holders of this visa can and cannot do with it. So in this article, we will briefly cover the basics of the Thailand Elite Visa before answering some of the most frequently asked questions about the visa.
What is the Thailand Elite Visa?
The Thailand Elite Visa is a long-term multiple-entry visa offered under the Thailand Privilege Program. It was created to attract high-income individuals who want to stay in Thailand for extended periods without the usual paperwork and frequent renewals required by standard visas.
The Thailand Elite Visa can be obtained by applying for the Thailand Privilege membership package that best suits your lifestyle and budget, with validity periods ranging from 5 to 20 years. Each membership package includes not only the visa but also exclusive privileges such as expedited immigration processing, airport services, special deals and discounts at leading establishments, access to government concierge services, and many more.
The five memberships currently available under the Thailand Privilege Program are as follows:
- Thailand Elite Visa Bronze (5 Years)
- Thailand Elite Visa Gold (5 Years)
- Thailand Elite Visa Platinum (10 Years)
- Thailand Elite Visa Diamond (15 Years)
- Thailand Elite Visa Reserve (20 Years, invitation only)
Thailand Elite Visa FAQs
Here is a list of some of the more commonly asked questions our Elite Visa agents get about the Thailand Elite Visa:
My passport is expiring soon. Can I complete a Thailand Elite Visa application?
Your passport must have a minimum of 12 months of validity remaining at the time of application and contain at least 3 blank pages.
Can I apply for the Thailand Elite Visa even if I have a Tourist Visa?
Yes, you may apply for the Thailand Elite Visa while in Thailand under a tourist visa. As long as you have no history of overstaying, you can switch to the Thailand Elite Visa without issue. This applies to all visa types in Thailand.
What nationalities are eligible for the Thailand Elite Visa?
The Thailand Elite Visa is available to all nationalities, except for North Korea.
What is the minimum age requirement for the Thailand Elite Visa?
There is no age requirement to apply for the Thailand Elite Visa. This makes it an appealing long-term option for early retirees, unlike other retirement visas in Thailand, which require applicants to be at least 50 years old.
Do I need health insurance to apply for the Thailand Elite Visa?
No, health insurance is not required to apply for the Thailand Elite Visa.
How long is the Thailand Elite Visa application process?
The Thailand Elite Visa application process usually takes between 1 and 3 months to complete, with 4 to 6 weeks of that time spent on the background check. However, the duration may vary depending on your nationality and location, as communication with certain countries may take longer.
For the fastest experience, apply while in Thailand through an official GSSA.
How can I pay for my Thailand Privilege membership?
You can pay for your Thailand Privilege membership through several payment channels:
- Credit or debit card
- Mobile banking transfer
- International banking transfer
- Alipay
- Cryptocurrency
- Physical cash (must be paid via a Krung Thai bank branch)
Note that some payment methods, such as cryptocurrency, will require the assistance of a GSSA.
Are there renewal fees for the Thailand Elite Visa?
Yes. If you want to continue holding the Thailand Elite Visa after your membership ends, you’ll need to purchase a new Thailand Privilege membership package to do so.
Can I add family members to my Thailand Privilege membership?
Yes. If you apply for the Platinum, Diamond, or Reserve membership package, you can add family members to your Thailand Privilege membership at a discounted rate.
Can I transfer the Thailand Elite Visa to someone else?
In most cases, no. All Thailand Privilege memberships are non-transferable, except for the Reserve membership.
Do I need to do the 90-day report with the Thailand Elite Visa?
Yes. All Thailand Elite Visa holders must complete the 90-day report if they stay in Thailand for more than 90 consecutive days. However, the Thailand Privilege Program offers several convenient services to assist with this, such as their home pick-up and delivery service, which handles the report on your behalf while you remain at home.
Do I get any tax benefits with the Thailand Elite Visa?
No, the Thailand Elite Visa does not grant any tax benefits to its holders.
Can I apply for permanent residency with the Thailand Elite Visa?
The Thailand Elite Visa, technically a tourist visa, does not lead to permanent residency. You must instead hold a non-immigrant visa for a set period to be eligible.
Can I buy a house in Thailand with a Thailand Elite Visa?
Under Thai law, foreigners cannot own land in their name. However, you can legally own a condominium. You can also lease land and then build a house on it. While you won’t be able to own the land, the house can be registered in your name, and it will be considered a separate asset that you legally own.
Does the Thailand Elite Visa allow me to work in Thailand?
No. The Thailand Elite Visa does not allow you to work or apply for a Thai work permit, which means you cannot be employed by a Thai company. However, you are allowed to work remotely for a foreign company or earn income from investments in Thailand.
Can I get a Thai driver’s license with the Thailand Elite Visa?
Yes, you can apply for and receive your Thai driver’s license with the Thailand Elite Visa. You can even enlist an Elite Personal Liaison from the Thailand Privilege Program to assist you with this process.
Can I own shares in a Thai company with the Thailand Elite Visa?
Yes. You can hold shares in a Thai company while on the Thailand Elite Visa. However, if you intend to serve as a managing director or take part in daily operations, you will need to apply for a Thailand Business Visa and obtain a Thai work permit.
Professional Assistance with Your Thailand Elite Visa
For a smooth and hassle-free Thailand Elite Visa application process, get in touch with our team of Thailand Elite Visa agents. We are an organization approved by the Thai government to provide free assistance with all Thailand Elite Visa applications from start to finish. Our services include:
- Collecting all the required documents,
- Reviewing your Thailand Elite Visa application for any errors, and
- Submitting the Thailand Elite Visa application to the appropriate government agencies on your behalf.
We also offer a wide range of complimentary perks not available anywhere else.
To streamline your Thailand Elite Visa application, do not hesitate to contact our Thailand Elite Visa agents to book a consultation now!