Thailand Visa: A Guide to Obtaining a Visa as a Foreigner

Thailand is a popular destination for tourists, expatriates, digital nomads, and retirees. Whether you’re planning a short visit, seeking employment, or looking to obtain long-term residency, Thailand offers various visa options to suit different needs. This guide provides a detailed overview of visa types, the application process, and key requirements for foreigners.

Types of Visas for Thailand

1. Tourist Visa (TR Visa & Visa Exemption)

Visa Exemption (Visa-Free Entry)

• Citizens from 64 countries, including the US, Canada, UK, EU nations, and Australia, can enter Thailand visa-free for 30 days.
• Entry can be extended once for an additional 30 days at an immigration office.

Tourist Visa (Single & Multiple Entry)

For those who do not qualify for visa exemption or want a longer stay, Thailand offers the Tourist Visa (TR Visa).

Single-Entry Tourist Visa:

• Valid for 60 days (extendable for 30 more days).
• Must be used within 3 months of issuance.
• Fee: THB 1,900 (~USD 55) for extensions.

Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa (METV):

• Allows multiple entries over 6 months.
• Each stay is up to 60 days per entry.
• Requires proof of funds (at least THB 200,000 or USD 5,700 in a bank account).

Application Requirements:

• Valid passport (6+ months validity).
• Completed application form.
• Round-trip flight ticket.
• Hotel booking or proof of accommodation.
• Proof of financial means (bank statement with at least THB 20,000 (~USD 570)).

2. Thailand Elite Visa (Long-Term Tourist Visa)

A privileged residency program for high-net-worth individuals.

Key Benefits:

• Valid for 5 to 20 years, depending on the package.
• Fast-tracked immigration clearance.
• Multiple-entry privileges.
• Access to VIP airport services and luxury benefits.

Cost:

• Starts at THB 600,000 (~USD 17,000) for a 5-year visa.
• Higher tiers available for 10, 15, or 20 years.

3. Business Visa (Non-Immigrant B Visa)

Eligibility:

• Foreigners working in Thailand or conducting business.
• Requires job offer from a Thai company.
• Needed for applying for a work permit.

Application Process:

• Employer submits application to Thailand’s Ministry of Labor.
• Once approved, apply at a Thai embassy or consulate.

Requirements:

• Passport (valid for 6+ months).
• Employment contract or business documents.
• Company registration papers.
• Bank statements showing financial stability.

Validity & Fees:

• Issued for 90 days initially.
• Can be extended to 1 year once in Thailand.
• Fee: THB 2,000 (~USD 57) for single entry, THB 5,000 (~USD 143) for multiple entries.

4. Retirement Visa (Non-Immigrant O-A & O-X Visa)

For foreigners 50 years and older who wish to retire in Thailand.

Non-Immigrant O-A Visa (1-Year Retirement Visa)

• Requires proof of funds:
  • Bank deposit of THB 800,000 (~USD 23,000) OR
  • Monthly income of THB 65,000 (~USD 1,900).
• Renewable annually.
• Medical insurance required.

Non-Immigrant O-X Visa (10-Year Retirement Visa)

• Only for citizens of 14 countries (including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Germany).
• Bank deposit of THB 3 million (~USD 86,000) required.
• Health insurance coverage of THB 40,000 (~USD 1,150) per outpatient visit.

5. Digital Nomad Visa / Long-Term Resident Visa (LTR Visa)

Designed for remote workers and freelancers working for companies outside Thailand.

Eligibility for “Work-from-Thailand” Visa:

• Earn at least USD 80,000 per year.
• Work for a company with at least USD 150 million in revenue.
• Health insurance coverage of at least USD 50,000.

Validity & Fees:

• 10-year visa (renewable).
• Application fee: THB 50,000 (~USD 1,400).

6. Marriage Visa (Non-Immigrant O Visa)

For foreigners married to a Thai citizen.

Requirements:

• Legally married to a Thai citizen.
• Proof of THB 400,000 (~USD 11,400) in a Thai bank account OR monthly income of THB 40,000 (~USD 1,140).
• Valid for 1 year (renewable).

Permanent Residency in Thailand

Foreigners can apply for Thai Permanent Residency (PR) after holding a long-term visa for 3+ years.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Work permit for at least 3 consecutive years.
• Earn at least THB 80,000 (~USD 2,300) per month.
• Investment of at least THB 3-10 million (~USD 85,000-285,000) in Thailand.
• Fluent in Thai language preferred.

Application Fee:

• THB 7,600 (~USD 217).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long can I stay in Thailand without a visa?

• Visa-exempt countries: Up to 30 days (extendable for another 30 days).
• Tourist Visa: 60 days, extendable to 90 days.

2. Can I work in Thailand with a Tourist Visa?

No, working on a tourist visa is illegal. You must have a Non-Immigrant B Visa and a work permit.

3. Can I get a retirement visa if I’m under 50?

No, retirement visas are only for those aged 50 and above.

4. Does Thailand have a digital nomad visa?

Yes, Thailand offers a Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa for remote workers earning at least USD 80,000 per year.

5. Can I buy property in Thailand and get residency?

No, buying property does not grant automatic residency. However, foreigners can own condominiums and lease land for 30 years.

6. How do I extend my visa in Thailand?

You can extend most visas at a local Thai immigration office for THB 1,900 (~USD 55).

7. Can I convert a tourist visa into a work visa?

Yes, but you must leave Thailand and apply for a Non-Immigrant B Visa from a Thai embassy or consulate.

Conclusion

Thailand offers a wide range of visa options depending on your purpose of stay—whether for tourism, work, business, retirement, or long-term residency. The country’s visa policies are relatively flexible, but it’s essential to meet the financial and documentation requirements. Always check the latest regulations with Thailand’s Immigration Bureau or Thai embassies before applying.

Our Directory

Use our database to find visa facilitators, real estate agents, and recommended professionals. You will also have the ability to book a time to meet with our expats on the ground. These are individuals just like you who have gone through the immigration process and have been living in your desired country or city.