Imagine yourself in this scenario: you have finally made the big decision of devoting yourself to Thailand for a much longer period of time, maybe even for life. You’ve immersed yourself into its culture, you’ve expressed amazement at its historical landmarks, you’ve enjoyed that shopping spree because of how affordable everything is, and the beaches and mountains provide you with a lot of solace that you wouldn’t have felt back at home. You want to leave your old life behind you and finally settle down in the Land of Smiles once and for all. Or maybe, you want to set up multiple trips to cross out everything on your to-do list. Perhaps moving to Thailand has been your dream goal since your childhood, maybe you want to set up a business here, or maybe you even want to retire.
Thailand Privilege offers the Elite Superiority Extension visa for individuals with such intentions. Out of all the 20-year visa options, the Elite Superiority Extension package is the most popular and it’s not hard to imagine why. It is the most economical choice out of all the 20-year visa plans and is ideally suited for individuals looking to book multiple trips to Thailand, establish businesses, invest in the Thai stock market, or looking to retire. It is perfect for individuals who simply don’t want to pay the high expenses or adhere to the “over 20” age requirement that comes with the Ultimate Privilege membership. While having a Thai Elite Visa doesn’t grant you permanent residency within the country, it could be leveraged to determine whether you would want to consider that route someday.
Features of Elite Superiority Extension
Cost: 1 million THB (VAT included)
- No annual fees.
- Costs only 400,000 THB if you currently hold the 600,000 THB Elite Easy Access membership.
Conditions
- The Elite Superiority Extension membership is non-refundable and also non-transferable. Thailand Privilege Card, Ltd. accepts no refunds after the payment is made.
Benefits
Holders of the Elite Superiority Extension package are entitled to all the base benefits that come with any Thailand Elite Visa option, along with some additional perks. These include:
- 4 renewable, 5-year multiple-entry visas that can be extended every 5 years for up to 20 years.
- Can stay for up to 1 year per visit to Thailand (but can request to stay for another year).
- Access to the immigration fast-tracking lane for expedited immigration clearance 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 opening 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
- Access to exclusive VIP arrival and departure lounges at airports.
- Access to special VIP airport services.
- Legal assistance from some of Thailand’s high-class legal consultants with expert knowledge of Thai law inside and out.
Holders of an Elite Easy Access membership can also upgrade to the Elite Superiority Extension membership. Alongside their being able to share the benefits of their new plan, applicants also are able to:
- Acquire an additional 15 days on your visa letting you enjoy Thailand for a much longer period of time.
- Upgrade by only needing to pay an extra 400,000 THB discount rather than the full 1 million THB to acquire the membership.
- Convert to an Elite Superiority Extension visa anytime during the 5-year timeline on their membership.
As a holder of the Elite Superiority Extension visa, you also have the opportunity to apply for the Elite Flexible Plus membership. This converts your visa into a non-immigrant visa so you can be able to acquire a work permit in the country. More information on how to apply for the Flexible Plus membership can be found here: <insert link to “Thai Elite Visa process” page>.
How to apply for the Elite Superiority Extension Visa
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 Superiority Extension membership by filling out the application form for that selected plan. Please follow these steps to acquire the visa:
Steps in applying for Elite Superiority Extension:
- Select the Thailand Elite Visa package of your own choice. Select “Elite Superiority Extension” 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 Superiority Extension option.
- 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 Superiority Extension visa recommended for?
The Elite Superiority Extension is often a good, affordable option for foreigners who find themselves wanting to reside in Thailand for a much longer period of time. This can involve a wide range of people, but most notably has amassed popularity amongst businessmen, investors, high-earning foreign nationals, and even retirees. Its affordability compared to other 20-year visas make this a cheaper alternative to the pricier Ultimate Privilege or Elite Family Premium membership.
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 Superiority Extension 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.
Can you change to a different package?
If you aren’t pleased with the current offerings provided by this plan, you can apply for a different option instead. If you want to change to a different plan, you would need to cancel the current plan you’re on and apply for your desired option with an entirely new application and background check.
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 Superiority Extension 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 Superiority Extension 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 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 giving you the right to work legally within the country. This gives you the opportunity to obtain a work permit which will be your ticket into the Thai workforce.
When can I extend my visa?
The Elite Superiority Extension offers 4 5-year multiple-entry visas that can be extended every 5 years. This would mean you will need to extend your visa thrice before the first 5 years are up so the entire duration totals up to 20 years. You won’t be able to extend it past 20 years, so you will need to apply for a new visa.
I applied for the Flexible Plus plan to be able to work in Thailand, can I still utilize my Thai Elite Visa?
If you have applied for the Flexible Plus plan, you will be classed as using a non-immigrant visa but will be able to use the benefits of the Elite Ultimate Privilege visa you applied for.
How do I upgrade from an Elite Easy Access visa to an Elite Superiority Extension visa?
One of the main features and advantages of having an Elite Easy Access visa is that you can choose to upgrade it to a 20-year Elite Superiority Extension 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.
I want to pay for the Elite Superiority Extension 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.
I am on a volunteer visa, would I be eligible to apply for the Elite Superiority Extension 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 options.
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.