Are you planning a trip to Thailand? It’s important to understand the various visa options available to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. In this article, we will explore different types of visas that cater to different needs and durations of stay.
Thai Elite Visa
The Thai Elite Visa is a long-term visa that offers privileges and residency in Thailand for a period of 5 to 20 years, depending on the chosen package. This visa is ideal for individuals who want to avoid the bureaucratic visa system of Thailand. It is particularly beneficial for digital nomads, retirees, investors, and business people who frequently travel in and out of Thailand. The Elite Visa is a renewable 5-year multiple entry visa, allowing for an extendable 1-year length of stay per entry.
Tourist Visa
If you are planning a short visit to Thailand for leisure or tourism purposes, the Tourist Visa is a great option. This visa allows you to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days and can be either a multiple or single entry visa. If you wish to extend your stay beyond 60 days, you can convert the visa to a Non-Immigrant Visa by doing a visa run to a nearby city or country like Penang or Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia.
Non-Immigrant Visa
The Non-Immigrant Visa is another option for those planning an extended stay in Thailand. It is typically a single entry visa that is valid for 90 days. Similar to the Tourist Visa, you can extend your stay by doing a visa run to the border or a nearby city or country. With a Non-Immigrant Visa, you can also obtain a work permit and open a bank account if needed.
UPDATE: Some embassies may reject your Certificate of Entry (COE) application if you do not have the correct format for Health Insurance. Make sure to check and fulfill the requirements.
One Year Non-Immigrant Visa
For individuals planning a longer stay in Thailand, the One Year Non-Immigrant Visa is a suitable choice. This visa allows for multiple entries and is valid for use for a period of 1 year. You are allowed to stay in Thailand for up to 90 days per entry, which means you will need to do a visa run every 90 days to have your visa stamped at the immigration office.
Marriage Visa and Retirement Visa
The Marriage Visa and Retirement Visa are available for individuals who meet specific financial requirements. To obtain a Marriage Visa, you must be married to a Thai national. On the other hand, if you are 50 years old or above, you can apply for a Retirement Visa. The process for both visas involves obtaining a non-immigrant visa first and then converting it to either a Marriage or Retirement Visa. These visa types allow you to stay in Thailand for a full year without the need for border runs.
Business Visa
For those looking to do business legally in Thailand, the Business Visa, also known as the Non-Immigrant Business Visa, is the appropriate choice. With this visa, you can obtain a work permit and open a bank account. However, you will still need to do a visa run every 90 days.
Permanent Resident Visa
If you plan to make Thailand your long-term home, you may consider applying for a Permanent Resident Visa. To qualify for this visa, you must have stayed in Thailand for 3 consecutive years with one-year visa extensions. If you are married to a Thai national, you must be earning at least 30,000 Baht per month. If you are single, your monthly income should be at least 80,000 Baht. By presenting your three years of personal tax statements that prove the income requirements, you can qualify for a Permanent Resident Visa in Thailand.
How to Enter Thailand during COVID-19
In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, entry into Thailand has certain requirements. To enter Thailand, you must obtain a Certificate of Entry (COE) from your local Thai embassy or consulate. The application should be submitted at least 5-15 working days before your intended travel date. Additionally, travelers must download the ThailandPlus contact tracing app and register.
Foreigners entering Thailand must provide proof of COVID-19 travel health insurance that covers medical examination and treatment for COVID-19, with a minimum coverage of US $100,000.
A negative COVID-19 PCR test, taken no more than 72 hours before departure, is also required for entry into Thailand.
Most travelers to Thailand are required to complete a 14-day quarantine at an Alternate State Quarantine (ASQ) Hotel accredited by the Thai government.
If you hold a valid vaccine certificate and are entering Thailand from a low or medium-risk country, you may be eligible to enter Phuket without quarantine. However, this condition applies if your vaccine has been approved by the World Health Organization (WHO) or the Ministry of Public Health of Thailand, and you received it at least 14 days before your travel date. You must present your vaccine certificate to International Port Health Control upon arrival.
Ensure you are well-prepared and meet all the necessary requirements before traveling to Thailand during these challenging times.
Remember, planning your visa ahead of time will save you from unnecessary stress and allow you to enjoy your time in Thailand to the fullest.
Safe travels!