It is becoming increasingly difficult to get a long-term visa in Thailand so many people are investigating what options are available to them. One such visa is the Thailand Elite Visa which was introduced back in 2003. The visa is very much in keeping with Thailand’s policy of attracting “quality” foreign visitors and is designed to encourage people with money to come and live in Thailand.
Who is eligible?
In reality, there are very few people who aren’t eligible for the visa. The only ones who can’t apply are those who have been imprisoned or declared bankrupt in the past and those who are deemed not to be of sound mind or physically. The application can be made either in Thailand or from abroad via their website.
What do you receive?
The Thailand Elite Visa offers 6 different packages so you can be sure that there will be something that will appeal to you. These are:
- Elite Easy Access
The Elite Easy Access visa is a 5-year multi-entry visa that cost THB500,000 and is open to anyone except those excluded as mentioned above. As part of this package, you will receive an airport service – which essentially means someone will meet you at the airport, gain access to an arrival and departure lounge, short-haul transfer, various discounts, access to call centres and government concierges.
- Elite Family Excursion
The Elite Family Excursion visa is suitable for a minimum of 2 people and costs THB800,000 and is valid for 5 years. Each additional person (must be a relation) costs THB300,000. Again, you will receive an airport service, have access to an arrival and departure lounge, limited short-haul and long-haul transfer, various discounts, access to call centres and government concierges.
- Elite Family Alternative Package
This visa lasts for 10 years and costs THB800,000 with an additional charge of THB700,000 for each additional family member included on the visa. The visa needs to be renewed after 5 years and carries very similar benefits to those offered by the other Elite Visa packages.
- Elite Privilege Access Package
This is again a 10-year visa which is renewable after 5 years. It costs THB1 million with additional family members costing THB800,000. There are greater benefits with this visa including an annual health check.
- Elite Superiority Extension
This is another visa lasting 10 years and must be renewed after 5 years. It cost THB1 million and is almost the same as the Elite Privilege package.
- Elite Ultimate Membership
This visa lasts for 20 years and costs THB2 million with an annual service fee of THB20,000. Again, it is renewable every 5 years but has numerous benefits.
Is the Thailand Elite Visa Worth the Expense?
This is something that is very subjective although for some people it is certainly beneficial. However, for most other people wishing to stay in Thailand long-term, a Thai working Visa (Non-immigrant B), Retirement Visa or a Marriage Visa are perhaps better options.
We can help!
If you would like more information on the Thailand Elite Visa or indeed any other Thai visa, you can call us on +66 (0)80 102 2328, +66 (0) 38 420 313 or +44 (0) 20 8133 8059, email us on info@thaivisaexpress.com or alternatively contact us via our website.