Given its reputation as a tourist hotspot, Thailand is well sought-after travel and business destination for foreigners to mingle, retire or establish business ventures. In spite of the positive word of mouth, there still exist people who are uncertain or rather doubtful of all the hype and are rather reluctant to leave their old lives behind. Others are sometimes put off by all the strenuous visa requirements, long wait times, and expensive prices. Certain visa applications and programs are often notorious for being marred by bureaucratic problems, restrictions, and complex rules and regulations that applicants are expected to adhere to.
This is where the Elite Easy Access becomes such an ideal option for those on a budget who are looking to just give Thailand a temporary test drive to see if it’s a good fit. As the cheapest, most affordable option, the Elite Easy Access plan provides a renewable 5-year visa that can be extended on an annual basis for up to a total of 5 years. With its low cost and low barrier to entry, it is often highly recommended to newcomers to Thailand, who want to take time to survey the country before making any decisions to move there. Maybe you’re intrigued by the notion of visiting Thailand on a solo trip to go sightseeing, or maybe you’re looking for a new home but want to test the waters first. Either way, the Elite Easy Access is recommendable to everyone, especially if you have never visited Thailand before.
All 7 of the Thai Elite Visa options come with complimentary perks aimed at letting visa holders experience Thailand the way it is meant to be witnessed. Among these major features is the opportunity to be able to upgrade the plan to either the Elite Superiority Extension or the Ultimate Privilege membership packages. This gives holders the chance to continue their stay within Thailand, this time on an enhanced 20-year Elite visa plan along with a wider host of new perks and lifestyle benefits. This is appealing to visitors who find themselves falling in love with all the activities, privileges, locales, and aesthetics of Thailand, letting them in on the fact that just because their 5-year visa has expired doesn’t mean their journey is over yet.
Features of Elite Easy Access
Cost: Cost: 600,000 THB (VAT included)
Conditions
- Elite Easy Access visas are non-refundable/non-transferable. Thailand Privilege Card, Ltd. accepts no refunds after the payment is made.
Benefits
A core feature of the Elite Easy Access visa includes a myriad of the base benefits often offered by all the rest of the packages. These benefits include:
- A renewable, 5-year multiple-entry visa can be extended yearly for up to 5 years.
- Can stay for up to 1 year per visit to Thailand.
- Access to the immigration fast-tracking lane for shorter wait times upon arrival.
- A government concierge service to drive visa holders to destinations in Bangkok.
- A friendly greeting and guidance from an Elite Personal Assistant upon arrival, who will escort you to the immigration fast track lane.
- Discounts at hotels, King Power Duty-Free branches, spas, golf courses, dining establishments, department stores, and shopping malls.
- Assistance with immigration services such as the 90-day reporting process.
- Guidance in the acquisition and expediting of a Thai Driver’s License.
- Guidance on how to open a Thai bank account.
- A chance to network with Thai businesses and start-ups.
- 24-7 phone support and security services in either English, Japanese, Korean, or Mandarin.
Additional Benefits
- exclusive access to VIP arrival and departure lounges.
Upgrading to a 20-year Visa
One of the key features of the Elite Easy Access visa is its ability to allow holders to enhance their current visa and take their entire Thailand experience to new heights. Having an Elite Easy Access doesn’t lock you into just a 5-year visa, but it also comes with a unique perk that lets you upgrade to either the 20-year Elite Superiority Extension visa or the 20-year Elite Ultimate Privilege visa.
Both options are strong choices for anyone looking to make Thailand their secondary home. The Elite Superiority Extension visa offers a 20-year visa with no annual fees and allows you to move to and from Thailand endlessly during that period (though you will need to only stay 1-year total per entry). The Elite Ultimate Privilege visa offers a visa of the exact same duration with even more privileges that further highlight your standing as a VIP within Thailand.
There are many reasons why this is so enticing to applicants:
- When applying during the 5-year period left on your visa plan, upgrading it adds 15 extra years on top of it. Now you can stay for a lot longer in Thailand.
- Whereas other plans require that you pay the full application fee, Elite Easy Access holders can skip all that and just pay the discounted difference.
- For instance, the 1 million THB cost of the Elite Superiority Extension membership becomes just 400,000 THB and the same applies to the Ultimate Privilege option. Just subtract 600,000 from the full amount of the 20-year package and that’s all you’ll need to pay.
How to Apply for the Elite Easy Access
Qualifications
To be fully qualified for the Thai Elite Visa program, the applicant must have:
- No overstays on their travel record within 3 years.
- Be granted the right to reside in Thailand according to Thai immigration law and any other related Thai law.
- Be a holder of a foreign passport from an eligible country or a visa holder in Thailand (Thai volunteer visa holders are not eligible).
- Have no criminal offenses or blacklists on record.
- Be required to provide medical documentation proving the applicant is of sound mind.
- At least a 1 year validity on your travel document/passport.
- Approval of a Thai Elite Visa application by the Thai Immigration Department.
- To disclose visa information and supporting documents (when requested) if holding a Non-O (volunteer), ED, or Non-Imm (medical treatment) visa.
- Not be a member of any of the restricted territories:
- Asia: North Korea, Afghanistan, Pakistan.
- Middle East: Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Iran, Lebanon, Libya, Palestine, Syria, Yemen.
- Africa: Central Africa, Cameroon, Congo, Democratic Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea of the Congo, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, Sao Tome and Principe, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan.
Application Procedure
You can apply for the Elite Easy Access membership by filling out the application form for that selected plan. Please follow these steps to acquire the visa:
Steps in applying for Elite Easy Visa:
- Select the Thailand Elite Visa package of your own choice. Select “Elite Easy Access” and you will be directed over to that package’s page where you can click on the link titled “Apply now” to be taken to the main application page and download the application form.
- Prepare all necessary documentation needed to apply for membership. This includes:
- Application form for chosen membership plan.
- Scanned copy of your passport/travel document.
- An updated picture (in color) of yourself in passport format.
- Proof of relationship/marriage certificate/birth certificate (required for the family plan options).
- Next, you will need to fill out the online form for the Elite Easy Access membership.
- As the application is fully online, you can complete it while living remotely overseas.
- You may also be required to clear your criminal record and background checks. Once you have submitted your application, it will automatically be submitted for approval at the Thai Government Office, so no extra work is needed for this.
- After the application has been filled out and sent, immigration services will be reviewing it before granting approval. If successful, you should receive an email from immigration services with the approval letter attached and payment instructions. The wait time is between 4-6 weeks.
- Follow the instructions in that email to make your final payment. Be sure to save the receipt of payment as you will be required to send it directly to Thailand Privilege Card Co., Ltd as proof that a payment has been processed. Payment can be accepted through many means, such as credit card or bank transfer.
NOTE: For more information on how to pay for the Thai Elite Visa, please visit our “How to pay for Thai Elite Visa” page.
- Once successful, you can now officially activate your membership. Within 5 days, you will receive an email from Thailand Privilege Card Co., Ltd with a welcome letter and your membership ID.
- Request an appointment with your nearest Royal Thai Consulate, Airport, or Immigration Office (if in Thailand) to attach your Thailand Elite Visa to your travel document at least 5 days after activating your membership. The validity of the visa corresponds to the validity of your Thai Elite Visa membership (for example if you apply for the visa sticker a month after receiving your membership, you’ve lost a month of your visa duration).
NOTE: Some nationalities are not permitted to receive their visa at an airport (ie: Croatia). If so, you would need to receive it at the nearest Royal Thai Consulate in your respective country of residence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the Elite Easy Access visa recommended for?
Due to its entry-level nature, the Elite Easy Access option is most suitable for applicants who desire to reside in Thailand in the short term, for those who are new to the country, for solo travelers who are interested in visiting Thailand but are on a budget, or for individuals who aren’t too certain if they want to commit to Thailand as their new home.
Can I apply for a Thai Elite Visa outside Thailand?
Yes. The Thai Elite Visa application is all online, so you will be able to complete the whole application procedure remotely.
What is Thailand Privilege?
The Thailand Privilege Card, Ltd. was set up as a subsidiary of the Thailand Ministry of Tourism and Sport. Their main intentions are to provide a more streamlined approach for non-Thais to be able to either travel to or immigrate to Thailand.
What is Thailand Privilege’s role in the Thailand Elite Visa?
The Thailand Privilege Card, Ltd. is responsible for curating the Thailand Elite Visa as an easier and more relaxing approach for foreigners and expats to travel, reside in, or immigrate to Thailand without any of the downsides packaged with visa applications.
How do I send confirmation of payment details over to Thailand Privilege?
Payment confirmation details can be sent over to Thailand Privilege via email. After your payment has gone through, you can copy, photograph or save your invoice and send it over to Thailand Privilege as an attachment via email.
Are you required to be of a certain age to acquire the visa?
Only if you are applying for the Ultimate Privilege visa option which has a requirement of at least a minimum of 20 years of age. There is no age limit on other options.
Are there any additional work, income, or study-related requirements I need to meet before I can acquire the visa?
No. A huge benefit of applying for the Elite Easy Access visa is that there are no requirements needed pertaining to employment, income, or school. If you meet all the requirements listed under the qualification section, then you’ll be able to obtain your visa without any issues.
I want to stay longer than 5 years in Thailand, what should I do?
If you want to stay longer than 5 years while on an Elite Easy Access visa, you can consider upgrading to either an Elite Superiority Extension or an Elite Ultimate Privilege visa. Both offer 20-year visas with more benefits and perks.
How do I upgrade an Elite Easy Access visa to an Elite Superiority Extension or an Ultimate Privilege visa?
One of the main features and advantages of having an Elite Easy Access visa is that you can choose to convert it to a 20-year Elite Superiority Extension visa or an Ultimate Privilege visa. Unlike other visa options in which you’d have to cancel and proceed through an entirely new application process, having an Elite Easy Access visa allows you to bypass all those steps and mandatory restrictions, and jump right on ahead into the upgrading phase. Simply pay the difference as detailed above and you’ll be with a 20-year visa in no time.
Can you convert from another package to an Elite Easy Access visa?
Absolutely! Just follow the steps to apply for an Elite Easy Access visa and cancel your current visa option.
How does the extension from a 5-year visa to a 20-year visa work?
Holders of an Elite Easy Access visa can upgrade to either an Elite Superiority Extension visa or an Ultimate Privilege visa. If you want to apply for the extension, you can apply for a new application and police clearance by either selecting the Elite Superiority Extension or the Ultimate Privilege option. Unlike other visa options that want to upgrade, as a holder of an Elite Easy Access visa, you can apply for the extension prior to waiting for the term date on your Elite Easy Access visa to end.
I want to pay for the Elite Easy Access visa, but I do not have a local bank account.
If you are unsure as to whether or not your current bank is supported, please reach out to a Thai Elite Visa agent or contact our customer support staff.
Do I need a certain minimum sum of money in my bank account to be eligible?
No. As long as you have the funds to make the full payment for the application, there is no minimum number of funds you need to have within your account.
If I’ve lived in Thailand for a year but my visa is still valid, can I return?
Holders of one of Thailand Privilege’s Thai Elite Visas are required to stay in Thailand for no more than a year (or 2 if requested). While you will need to leave the country before a year is up, you can still return back to Thailand a day later so long as your visa is still valid.
Can I own a house, condominium, or property in Thailand on a Thai Elite Visa?
Having a Thai Elite Visa does give you permission to own a condominium within the country, however, you are not permitted to own land.
I am on a tourist visa, would I be eligible to apply for the Elite Easy Access visa?
Yes, holders of tourist visa are eligible to apply for Thai Elite Visas. There are no restrictions imposed on applicants holding a tourist visa.
I am on a Thai work permit, would I be eligible to apply for the Elite Easy Access visa?
No, as Thai Elite Visas are considered tourist visas, and having a work permit classes you as a non-immigrant visa holder. This is because Thailand forbids holding two different types of visas simultaneously.
Can I work on a Thai Elite Visa?
No, Thai Elite Visas are classified as tourist visas. You will need to hold a Thai work permit to be able to legally work in Thailand. Another alternative option is to apply for the Flexible Plus addon which converts your Thai Elite Visa into a non-immigrant visa which will give you the right to work legally within the country. This addon is only available to holders of an Elite Privilege Access, Elite Superiority Extension, or Ultimate Privilege visa.
I am on a volunteer visa, would I be eligible to apply for the Elite Easy Access visa?
No, unfortunately, applicants on a volunteer visa are not eligible to apply for Thai Elite Visas.
Why is my country on the “restricted countries” list?
Countries blacklisted from being eligible for the Thai Elite Visa are based on the results found on the UN Sanction List. If you are from any of these territories and still want to apply, we do encourage you to still fill out the application form, though we urge you to get in touch with a Thai Elite Visa agent to discuss what steps are needed.
Can I use my Thai Elite Visa discount perks at any restaurants, shopping malls, etc?
You can only use these perks at Thailand Elite Visa partner establishments (for example: King Power Duty-Free stores).
How do I use my Thai Elite Visa discount benefits?
You can reach out to any of the Thailand Elite Visa partner restaurants, spas, golf courses, shopping malls, etc, and present your Thai Elite Visa card. You will then be allowed to utilize any perks and discounts within that location.
Can I apply for permanent residency status?
Thai Elite Visa holders cannot apply for PR status in Thailand as they do not hold a non-immigrant visa or a work permit. To qualify for PR status you would either need to apply for the Flexible Elite Plus membership or attain non-immigration status.
Would I be required to pay taxes while on a Thai Elite Visa?
No, Thai Elite Visa holders do not have to pay taxes while residing in Thailand. However, they may be subjected to overseas taxes if they are receiving income internationally. Visa holders, however, can be considered a tax resident and are eligible to apply for a TIN (Tax Identification Number). As Thai Elite Visa Agents are not experts in areas pertaining to taxation, you are urged to reach out to tax advisors in Thailand or your country of residence for any tax-related assistance.
Can I share the benefits of this visa with non-Thai Elite Visa holders?
Yes. Visiting friends and family members can enjoy the benefits of the Thailand Elite Visa while in the country.
Will I be eligible for a certificate of residence?
Yes, Thai Elite Visa holders can apply for a certificate of residence if requested. The certificates will only be in Thai, so you would need to hire a translator to convert them to English.
Would I be able to delay the start date of my Thai Elite Visa?
You won’t be able to delay the start date of your new visa, however, you can delay the payment date once you’ve received your payment instructions.
I’ve made a mistake with my Thai Elite Visa package choice, can I change to a new one?
If you want to change to a new package without having to apply again as a new applicant, you can only do so before you’ve paid for your current package. Once a payment has gone through, you cannot switch and would need to cancel and apply for a new one.
I have some more questions, but they aren’t under the FAQs.
If you have any questions that you can’t find answers to, we highly encourage you to reach out to one of our Thai Elite Visa agents. Our contact information can be found above under the “contact us” section.