Say Sawatdee-kah to a New Beginning: How to Immigrate to Thailand

 

Thailand is a beautiful and culturally rich country located in Southeast Asia. It is home to magnificent temples, beaches and friendly locals. With a welcoming culture, a low cost of living and a high quality of life, Thailand is a  popular destination for expats looking to relocate. If you are thinking of immigrating to Thailand, this article will provide you with all the information you need on the different visa options available, eligibility requirements, processing times, costs, pros and cons and the risks associated with each Thailand visa.

 

Tourist Visa (TR Visa)

 

The TR Visa is the most common visa that tourists use when visiting Thailand. It allows you to stay in the country for up to 60 days per entry, and it can be extended for an additional 30 days. However, the TR Visa is not intended for those looking to relocate permanently.

 

Eligibility Requirements

 

  • Passport with at least six months validity
  • Round-trip ticket or proof of onward travel
  • Sufficient funds for the duration of your stay
  • A valid address in Thailand
  • No criminal record

 

Processing Time

 

  • The processing time for a TR Visa is usually one to two business days.

 

Cost

 

The cost of a TR Visa is 1,000 Baht (approximately $30 USD).

 

Pros of the Thai Tourist Visa

 

  • The TR Visa is easy to obtain and can be extended if needed.

 

  • The cost is relatively low.

 

  • It allows you to explore the country and decide if you want to stay longer.

 

Cons of the Thai Tourist Visa

 

  • The TR Visa does not allow you to work or conduct business in Thailand.

 

  • It is not intended for long-term stays.

 

Non-Immigrant Visa (Non-O Visa)

 

The Non-O Visa is intended for those who wish to stay in Thailand for an extended period such as retirees or those seeking medical treatment. This visa is valid for up to 90 days per entry and it can be extended for up to one year.

 

Eligibility Requirements

 

  • Passport with at least six months validity

 

  • Proof of financial stability (e.g., bank statements, pension statements)

 

  • Criminal background check

 

  • A letter from a Thai embassy or consulate, stating the reason for your stay

 

Processing Time

 

  • The processing time for a Non-O Visa is two weeks.

 

Cost

 

The cost of a Non-O Visa is 2,000 Baht (approximately $60 USD).

 

Pros of the Thai Non-O Visa

 

  • The Non-O Visa allows for longer stays in Thailand.

 

  • It allows you to conduct business, work or study in Thailand.

 

  • It can be extended for up to one year.

 

Cons of the Non-O Visa

 

  • The Non-O Visa requires more documentation and can take longer to obtain.

 

  • It can be more expensive than other visas.

 

Marriage Visa (Non-O Visa)

 

The Marriage Visa is intended for foreigners who are married to a Thai citizen. This visa allows you to stay in Thailand for up to one year and it can be extended for an additional year. It is also known as the “O-A” visa.

 

Eligibility Requirements

 

  • Marriage certificate or evidence of a relationship with a Thai national

 

  • Passport with at least six months validity

 

  • Proof of financial stability (e.g., bank statements)

 

  • Criminal background check

 

Processing Time

 

The processing time for a Marriage Visa is two weeks.

 

Cost

 

The cost of a Marriage Visa is 2,000 Baht (approximately $60 USD).

 

Pros of the Thailand Marriage Visa

 

  • The Marriage Visa allows you to stay in Thailand for an extended period.

 

  • It allows you to work or study in Thailand.

 

  • It can be extended for up to one year.

 

Cons of the Thailand Marriage Visa

 

  • Costly in the long run

 

Business Visa (Non-B Visa)

 

The Non-B Visa, also known as the Business Visa, is intended for individuals who wish to work or conduct business in Thailand. This visa is valid for up to 90 days per entry and it can be extended for up to one year at a time on an indefinite basis.

Eligibility Requirements

 

  • Passport with at least six months validity

 

  • Proof of business activities in Thailand

 

  • Letter of invitation from a Thai company

 

  • Criminal background check

 

  • Medical certificate

 

Processing Time

 

The processing time for a Non-B Visa is one to two weeks.

 

Cost

 

  • The cost of a Non-B Visa is 2,000 Baht (approximately $60 USD).

 

Pros of the Non-B Visa to Immigrate to Thailand

 

  • The Non-B Visa allows you to work or conduct business in Thailand.

 

  • It can be extended for up to one year.

 

Cons of the Non-B Visa to Immigrate to Thailand

 

  • The Non-B Visa requires documentation related to business activities, which can be difficult to obtain.

 

  • It is not intended for those who are not planning to work or conduct business in Thailand.

 

Elite Visa to Immigrate to Thailand

 

The Elite Visa is a premium visa program that offers an extended stay in Thailand with a range of exclusive benefits, including airport services and VIP access to golf courses and spas. There are seven different types of Elite Visa, ranging from five to 20-year visas.

 

The Thailand Elite Visa program offers foreign nationals the opportunity to live, work, and invest in Thailand for an extended period of time. There are seven different types of Elite Visa, each with its own unique benefits, costs, and requirements. Here’s a breakdown of each type of Elite Visa:

 

Elite Easy Access

 

  • Cost: 500,000 baht (approx. $16,000 USD) for 5-year membership or 1 million baht (approx. $32,000 USD) for 10-year membership

 

  • Benefits: Multiple-entry visa, complimentary airport transfer, annual health checkup, complimentary golf, spa, and dining experiences and VIP assistance.

 

  • Requirements: No minimum stay requirements, must be at least 20 years old, and must have no criminal record

 

Elite Family Premium

 

  • Cost: 1 million baht (approx. $32,000 USD) for 5-year membership or 2 million baht (approx. $64,000 USD) for 10-year membership.

 

  • Benefits: Multiple-entry visa for up to 9 family members, complimentary airport transfer, annual health checkup, complimentary golf, spa and dining experiences.

 

  • Requirements: Must have a family relationship with the primary applicant and must have no criminal record.

 

Elite Family Excursion

 

  • Cost: 800,000 baht (approx. $25,600 USD) for 5-year membership or 1.6 million baht (approx. $51,200 USD) for 10-year membership.

 

  • Benefits: Multiple-entry visa for up to 5 family members.

 

  • Requirements: Must have a family relationship with the primary applicant.

 

Elite Easy Access Plus

 

  • Cost: 1 million baht (approx. $32,000 USD) for 5-year membership or 2 million baht (approx. $64,000 USD) for 10-year membership

 

  • Benefits: Multiple-entry visa

 

  • Requirements: No minimum stay requirements, must be at least 20 years old, and must have no criminal record

 

Elite Privilege Access

 

  • Cost: 1 million baht (approx. $32,000 USD) for 5-year membership or 2 million baht (approx. $64,000 USD) for 10-year membership.

 

  • Benefits: Multiple-entry visa, complimentary airport transfer, annual health checkup, dining experiences, VIP assistance, special rates on accommodation and transportation and a 24/7 personal assistant.

 

  • Requirements: No minimum stay requirements, must be at least 20 years old and must have no criminal record.

 

Elite Superiority Extension

 

  • Cost: 1 million baht (approx. $32,000 USD) for 5-year membership or 2 million baht (approx. $64,000 USD) for 10-year membership.

 

  • Benefits: Multiple-entry visa, complimentary airport transfer, annual health checkup, complimentary golf, spa, and dining experiences.

 

  • Requirements: Must already hold a 5-year Elite Visa.

 

Elite Ultimate Privilege

 

  • Cost: 2 million baht (approx. $64,000 USD) for 10-year membership

 

  • Benefits: Multiple-entry visa, complimentary airport transfer and annual health checkup.

 

  • Eligibility Requirements: Meeting the requirements for the specific type of Elite Visa you are applying for

 

  • Proof of financial stability

 

Risks Associated with getting a Visa to Immigrate to Thailand

 

While immigrating to Thailand can be a rewarding experience, there are risks associated with each visa. It is important to be aware of these risks before making any decisions about relocating to Thailand.

 

Tourist Visa (TR Visa)

 

  • The TR Visa is not intended for long-term stays in Thailand, and overstaying your visa can result in fines, deportation or even imprisonment.

 

  • The TR Visa does not allow you to work or conduct business in Thailand.

 

Non-Immigrant Visa (Non-O Visa)

 

  • The Non-O Visa requires a significant amount of documentation, and failure to meet the eligibility requirements can result in the denial of your visa application.

 

  • The Non-O Visa may be more expensive than other visa options.

 

Marriage Visa (Non-O Visa)

 

  • The Marriage Visa requires proof of a relationship with a Thai national, which can be difficult to obtain.

 

  • The Marriage Visa is not intended for those who are not married to a Thai national.

 

Business Visa (Non-B Visa)

 

  • The Non-B Visa requires documentation related to business activities, which can be difficult to obtain.

 

  • The Non-B Visa is not intended for those who are not planning to work or conduct business in Thailand.

 

Elite Visa

 

  • The Elite Visa is significantly more expensive than other visa options.

 

  • The Elite Visa may not be practical or affordable for many individuals.

 

Student Visa to Immigrate to Thailand for one year or more

 

If you are looking to study abroad then Thailand can be an excellent option. With its unique culture, affordable cost of living, and world-class universities, Thailand is an attractive destination for international students. However, if you want to stay in Thailand for an extended period as a student you will need to apply for a Thailand Student Visa.

 

What is a Thailand Student Visa?

 

The Thailand Student Visa, also known as the Non-Immigrant ED Visa, is a type of visa that allows international students to study in Thailand for an extended period. This visa is valid for up to one year and can be extended for an additional year. The Non-Immigrant ED Visa is issued by the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

 

Eligibility Requirements

 

To be eligible for a Thailand Student Visa, you must meet the following requirements:

 

Acceptance into a Thai educational institution

 

You must be accepted into an educational institution in Thailand to be eligible for a Non-Immigrant ED Visa. This includes universities, colleges, language schools, and other educational institutions that are accredited by the Thai Ministry of Education.

 

Financial Requirements

 

You must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay in Thailand. The exact amount required may vary depending on the length of your stay, but generally, you will need to show proof of at least 20,000 Baht (approximately $600 USD) per month of your stay.

 

Valid Passport

 

You must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity remaining.

 

Health Requirements

 

You must provide a medical certificate stating that you are free from infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, leprosy, drug addiction and syphilis.

Criminal Background Check

 

You must provide a police clearance certificate from your home country.

 

How to Apply for a Thailand Student Visa

 

To apply for a Thailand Student Visa, follow these steps:

 

  • Apply to an accredited educational institution in Thailand and receive an acceptance letter.

 

  • Gather all required documentation, including financial documents, health certificate, police clearance certificate, and passport.

 

  • Submit your application and required documents to the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

 

  • Pay the visa fee (approximately $80 USD).

 

  • Wait for your visa to be processed.

 

Processing Time

 

The processing time for a Thailand Student Visa takes between five and ten business days.

 

Cost

 

The cost of a Thailand Student Visa varies depending on the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country. The cost is approximately $80 USD.

 

Pros of the Thailand Student Visa

 

  • Extended stay in Thailand

 

  • The Non-Immigrant ED Visa allows you to stay in Thailand for up to one year and can be extended for an additional year. This gives you plenty of time to complete your studies or language course.

 

  • Ability to work part-time

 

  • International students on a Non-Immigrant ED Visa are allowed to work part-time in Thailand. This can be a great way to earn extra money and gain valuable work experience while studying.

 

  • Affordable cost of living

 

  • Thailand has a relatively low cost of living compared to many other study abroad destinations. This means that you can stretch your budget further and enjoy a higher standard of living while in Thailand.

 

  • Thailand has a rich and vibrant culture that is unlike any other in the world. Studying in Thailand gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in this culture and gain a deeper understanding of Thai traditions, customs, and beliefs.

 

Cons of the Thailand Student Visa

 

  • Language barrier

 

  • Thai is the official language of Thailand, and while many people speak English, there may be a language barrier for some international students. This can make it challenging to navigate daily life and communicate with locals.

 

  • Limited job opportunities

 

  • While international students are allowed to work part-time in Thailand, job opportunities may be limited. The job market in Thailand is competitive, and many jobs require proficiency in Thai.

 

  • Cultural adjustment

 

  • Moving to a new country and immersing yourself in a new culture can be challenging. International students may experience culture shock and find it difficult to adjust to life in Thailand.

 

  • Visa restrictions

 

  • The Non-Immigrant ED Visa is only valid for up to one year and can only be extended for an additional year. This means that international students who want to stay in Thailand for a longer period will need to find another visa option or leave the country and reapply for a new visa.

 

Risks associated with the Thailand Student Visa

 

Beware of Immigrate to Thailand Scams

 

There have been reports of visa scams targeting international students in Thailand. These scams involve fake universities or language schools that offer to sponsor a student visa for a fee. It is important to research the institution you plan to attend and ensure that it is accredited by the Thai Ministry of Education.

Immigration crackdowns

 

Thailand has experienced several immigration crackdowns in recent years, which have resulted in stricter visa requirements and increased scrutiny of foreigners. It is important to comply with all visa requirements and regulations to avoid any issues with immigration authorities.

 

Political instability

 

Thailand has experienced political instability in the past, which has resulted in protests and demonstrations. While the situation in Thailand is generally stable it is important to stay informed of any political developments and exercise caution when participating in public gatherings.

How to set up a company as a foreigner in Thailand and get a visa

 

Setting up a company as a foreigner in Thailand can be a great way to live and work in the country. Not only does it allow you to work legally, but it also provides a pathway to obtaining a long-term visa and immigrate to Thailand. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to set up a company in Thailand as a foreigner and obtain a visa to live and work in Thailand.

 

Step 1: Determine the type of company you want to set up

 

Before you can start the process of setting up a company in Thailand, you need to determine the type of company you want to establish. There are several options available, including a limited company, a representative office, a branch office and a regional office.

 

Step 2: Meet the eligibility requirements

 

To set up a company in Thailand as a foreigner you must have a valid passport and be at least 20 years old.

 

Step 3: Register your company

 

Once you have determined the type of company you want to set up and have met the eligibility requirements, you can start the process of registering your company. This involves selecting a company name, drafting the company’s memorandum of association and articles of association and registering with the Thai Department of Business Development.

 

Step 4: Obtain a work permit and visa

 

After your company has been registered you can apply for a work permit and visa. To obtain a work permit you must have a valid non-immigrant visa and meet the requirements set out by the Thai Ministry of Labor.

 

Step 5: Open a bank account and obtain a tax ID number

 

Once you have obtained your work permit and visa you can open a bank account in Thailand and obtain a tax ID number. This is necessary to conduct business in Thailand and pay taxes on your earnings.

 

Pros and cons of setting up a company in Thailand as a foreigner

 

Pros

 

  • Allows you to live and work in Thailand legally

 

  • Provides a pathway to obtaining a long-term visa

 

  • Offers access to a growing economy and business opportunities

 

  • Low cost of living and favorable tax rates

 

Cons

 

  • Can be a complex and time-consuming process

 

  • Language and cultural barriers may make it difficult to conduct business

 

  • Requires a significant investment of time and money

 

  • Must comply with all Thai laws and regulations, which can be challenging for foreigners.

 

Set up a Board of Investment approved company as a foreigner and immigrate to Thailand

 

Setting up a Board of Investment (BOI) approved company in Thailand as a foreigner can be an excellent way to gain a long-term visa to live and work in the country and immigrate to Thailand. The BOI offers a range of incentives and benefits for companies operating in certain industries, including tax exemptions, streamlined work permit processes and access to funding and resources. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to set up a BOI approved company in Thailand as a foreigner and obtain a visa to live and work in the country.

 

Step 1: Determine the type of business you want to establish

 

The first step in setting up a BOI approved company in Thailand is to determine the type of business you want to establish. The BOI promotes the following industries to international investors and business owners looking to immigrate to Thailand.

 

Agriculture and Agricultural Products

 

  • Animal Feed
  • Biofuels
  • Biotechnology
  • Crop Production
  • Dairy Products
  • Food Processing
  • Organic Farming

 

Mining, Ceramics, and Basic Metals

 

  • Aluminum Products
  • Ceramic Products
  • Iron and Steel
  • Non-Ferrous Metals
  • Precious Metals
  • Quarrying and Mining

 

Light Industry

 

  • Automotive Parts
  • Consumer Goods
  • Garments and Textiles
  • Packaging
  • Printing and Publishing
  • Toys and Games

Metal Products, Machinery and Transport Equipment

 

  • Aerospace and Aviation
  • Construction Materials and Equipment
  • Heavy Machinery
  • Industrial Gases
  • Marine Products and Services
  • Precision Engineering

Electronic Industry and Electric Appliances

 

  • Electrical and Electronic Components
  • Information Technology and Software
  • LED Lighting
  • Medical Devices
  • Renewable Energy
  • Telecommunications

 

Chemicals, Paper and Plastics

 

  • Adhesives and Sealants
  • Chemicals and Petrochemicals
  • Environmental Management
  • Paper and Pulp
  • Plastics and Rubber
  • Surface Coatings

 

Services and Public Utilities

 

  • Education and Training
  • Healthcare Services
  • Hospitality and Tourism
  • Logistics and Transportation
  • Research and Development
  • Waste Management

 

Technology and Innovation Development

 

  • Biopharmaceuticals
  • Digital Technology
  • Nanotechnology
  • Robotics and Automation
  • Smart City Development
  • Sustainable Technology

 

Infrastructure and Logistics

 

  • Industrial Estates and Parks
  • Infrastructure Development
  • Port and Logistics
  • Railway and Highways
  • Real Estate and Property Development
  • Water Management and Supply

 

Step 2: Meet the eligibility requirements

 

To set up a BOI approved company in Thailand, you must have minimum investment capital of THB 1 million and be at least 20 years old.

 

Step 3: Register your company with the BOI

 

After you have determined the type of business you want to establish and have met the eligibility requirements, you can register your company with the BOI. This involves submitting a detailed business plan and investment proposal, as well as meeting with BOI officials to discuss your business and its potential for growth.

 

Step 4: Obtain a work permit and visa

 

Once your company has been approved by the BOI, you can apply for a work permit and visa. To obtain a work permit, you must have a valid non-immigrant visa and meet the requirements set forth by the Thai Ministry of Labor. You will also need to provide proof that you have invested a certain amount of money in your company.

 

Step 5: Open a bank account and obtain a tax ID number

 

After obtaining your work permit and visa, you can open a bank account in Thailand and obtain a tax ID number. This is necessary to conduct business in Thailand and pay taxes on your earnings.

 

Pros and cons of setting up a BOI approved company in Thailand as a foreigner

 

Pros

 

  • Provides access to a range of incentives and benefits, including tax exemptions and streamlined work permit processes.
  • Offers access to a growing economy and business opportunities.
  • Provides a pathway to obtaining a long-term visa.
  • Low cost of living and favorable tax rates.

 

Cons

 

  • Can be a complex and time-consuming process.

 

  • Language and cultural barriers may make it difficult to conduct business.

 

  • Requires a significant investment of time and money.

 

  • Must comply with all Thai laws and regulations, which can be challenging for foreigners.

 

Setting up a BOI approved company in Thailand as a foreigner can be an excellent way to immigrate to Thailand. It offers access to a range of incentives and benefits and provides a pathway to obtaining a long-term visa.

Free Visa Assessment: The First Step to Immigrate to Thailand

 

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Subject Matter Expert at Migration Made Simple | Website | + posts

Jacqueline Chow is an international immigration and visa expert with over 15 years of experience in the field. With a background in law and a passion for helping people, Jacqueline has built a reputation as a trusted and reliable source of information and advice on all aspects of immigration and visas. She has worked with clients from all over the world, including high-net-worth individuals, professionals, skilled workers and families. As a sought-after speaker and commentator Jacqueline has been featured in various media outlets and has given talks on immigration and visas at conferences and events around the world.