The 5-Year Retirement Visa, also known as the Non-Immigrant “O-X” Visa, allows retirees to stay in Thailand for an extended period without frequent renewals. This visa is available to foreigners aged 50 or older from selected countries, including Japan, Australia, the U.S., and many European nations. It offers significant benefits, such as multiple entries and a longer visa duration than the typical one-year retirement visa.

1. Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the 5-Year Retirement Visa, applicants must meet specific criteria:

a) Age and Nationality

Applicants must be 50 years old or older at the time of application. The visa is only available to citizens of 14 approved countries, including Japan, Canada, Australia, the U.S., and most EU countries.

b) Financial Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate financial stability by meeting one of the following criteria:

• A minimum deposit of THB 3 million in a Thai bank account for at least one year before applying.
• An annual income of at least THB 1.2 million. Alternatively, a combination of savings and income that meets these thresholds is also acceptable.

c) Health Insurance

Visa holders must have health insurance with minimum coverage of THB 40,000 for outpatient care and THB 400,000 for inpatient care.

d) Good Conduct

Applicants must provide a criminal background check from their home country and must not have any criminal record that could jeopardize public security in Thailand.

2. Application Process

The application for a 5-Year Retirement Visa involves several steps:

a) Initial Application

Applications are submitted at a Thai embassy or consulate in the applicant’s home country or at an immigration office in Thailand. Key documents required include:

• Passport valid for at least 10 years.
• Proof of financial requirements (bank statements, income proof).
• Medical certificate indicating the applicant is free from certain diseases.
• Health insurance documentation.
• Police clearance certificate.

b) Approval

Once approved, the visa is initially issued for five years. Visa holders must report to Thai immigration every 90 days to confirm their current address. The visa can be extended for an additional five years, provided the requirements continue to be met.

3. Financial Obligations

Visa holders must maintain the financial thresholds required for the visa:

• The THB 3 million in savings must remain in the Thai bank account for the first year. After the first year, THB 1.5 million must be maintained for the remaining visa period.
• Alternatively, if using income for qualification, the visa holder must provide annual proof of income that meets the required threshold.

4. Benefits of the 5-Year Retirement Visa

The 5-Year Retirement Visa offers several advantages for long-term retirees:

• Multiple Entries: Visa holders can leave and re-enter Thailand without needing to apply for a re-entry permit.
• Extended Stay: The visa is valid for five years, reducing the need for annual visa renewals.
• Health Insurance: Since it’s mandatory for this visa, retirees have built-in health insurance coverage.

5. Reporting and Renewal Requirements

• 90-Day Reporting: Visa holders must report their address to immigration every 90 days.
• Visa Renewal: After the initial five-year period, the visa can be extended for another five years if the financial, health, and good conduct conditions are met.
• Re-Entry: Leaving and re-entering Thailand within the validity period does not affect the visa status, but address reporting after re-entry is required.

Conclusion

The 5-Year Retirement Visa is a great option for retirees seeking long-term residency in Thailand without the hassle of annual renewals. With benefits such as multiple entries and long-term stability, it provides an attractive solution for retirees from approved countries, provided they meet the stringent financial and health requirements. By offering an extended stay with fewer renewals, Thailand continues to position itself as a retirement destination for international retirees seeking both comfort and stability.

90-Day Reporting. For foreign nationals staying in Thailand on a long-term visa, 90-day reporting is a critical legal requirement. This process ensures that the Thai immigration authorities are updated on a foreigner's current location every 90 days. Failing to comply can result in fines and potential complications with visa renewals or re-entry permits. This article provides an in-depth look at the 90-day reporting process, including who must report, the various reporting methods, and key considerations for compliance.

1. Who Must Do 90-Day Reporting?

Foreign nationals who hold any type of long-term visa (such as a Non-Immigrant Visa, Business Visa, Retirement Visa, or Marriage Visa) and have been staying in Thailand for more than 90 consecutive days are required to file a 90-day report. It’s important to note that the 90-day reporting requirement applies regardless of whether a foreigner has left Thailand and re-entered the country.

a) Exemptions

Tourists on short-term visas or individuals staying less than 90 days do not need to file a report. Additionally, if you leave Thailand before the 90-day period expires and return, the counting resets, and the reporting must be done 90 days after re-entry.

2. Methods of Filing 90-Day Reports

There are several ways to file your 90-day report, allowing flexibility for those who may be traveling or not able to visit an immigration office in person:

a) In-Person Reporting

The most traditional method is visiting the local immigration office where your residence is registered. This requires presenting your passport, departure card (TM6), and a completed TM47 form. Make sure to visit the correct office based on your location, as this can vary across Thailand’s provinces.

b) Online Reporting

The online reporting system allows foreign nationals to submit their 90-day report through the Thai Immigration Bureau website. Online reports must be submitted 7 to 15 days before the reporting deadline. While this method is convenient, the system can be prone to technical issues, and not all foreigners have success with online submissions.

c) Reporting by Mail

Mail reporting is another option, but it must be completed 7 to 15 days before the due date. You must send the completed TM47 form, copies of your passport information page, visa page, latest entry stamp, and departure card (TM6) along with a self-addressed, stamped envelope to the relevant immigration office.

d) Reporting Through a Representative

If you are unable to visit the immigration office in person, a representative can file the report on your behalf. The representative needs to have a copy of your passport and signed power of attorney.

3. What Happens If You Miss the Reporting Deadline?

If you fail to file your 90-day report on time, there are penalties involved:

• Fines: A late submission incurs a fine of THB 2,000. If you are caught without having reported, the fine may increase to THB 5,000.
• Re-entry Permits and Visa Extensions: Non-compliance can also complicate visa renewals or re-entry permit applications. Keeping up with your 90-day reports is essential to maintain good standing with Thai immigration.

4. Extensions of Stay and New 90-Day Periods

When you extend your stay (such as renewing your visa or applying for a visa extension), the 90-day reporting timeline restarts. For example, if you receive an extension on a retirement visa or a business visa, your next report will be due 90 days after the date of approval.

a) Re-entry After Leaving Thailand

If you leave Thailand during your stay and re-enter, the 90-day counting period resets, and you must file a new report 90 days after your re-entry date.

5. Practical Considerations for 90-Day Reporting

a) Holiday and Weekend Considerations

If your 90-day reporting date falls on a public holiday or weekend, you should file the report on the next working day without penalty. However, it’s best to plan ahead to avoid unnecessary delays, especially during high-traffic periods at immigration offices.

b) Residence Address Changes

If you move to a new residence during your stay in Thailand, you must inform immigration authorities by filing a TM30 form within 24 hours. Once the TM30 is submitted, your new residence will be the address you provide for future 90-day reports.

c) Record Keeping

Keep copies of all 90-day reports and documentation, as immigration officials may request them during visa extensions or other interactions with immigration authorities.

Conclusion

The 90-day reporting requirement in Thailand is a critical responsibility for long-term foreign residents. While the process may seem cumbersome, especially for new expatriates, Thailand’s immigration system provides multiple methods for compliance, including online, mail, and in-person submissions. Understanding the requirements, staying on top of deadlines, and maintaining proper documentation ensures a smooth and compliant stay in Thailand, avoiding fines or legal complications. Working with immigration services or legal professionals may also help streamline the process for newcomers or those unfamiliar with Thai regulations.

Permanent residence in Thailand offers a host of benefits, including the right to live and work in the country indefinitely, without the need for visa renewals. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the permanent residence process, eligibility criteria, application procedures, required documentation, and practical tips to ensure a successful application.

1. Overview of Permanent Residence in Thailand

Purpose and Benefits:

• Long-Term Stability: Allows foreigners to live in Thailand permanently without the need for periodic visa renewals.
• Work Rights: Grants the right to work in Thailand without a work permit.
• Family Benefits: Spouses and children of permanent residents can also apply for permanent residence.
• Property Ownership: Eases the process of property ownership and investment in Thailand.
• Path to Citizenship: After holding permanent residence for a certain period, one can apply for Thai citizenship.

Annual Quota:

• Limitations: The Thai government sets an annual quota for permanent residence approvals, with a maximum of 100 persons per nationality.

2. Eligibility Criteria

General Requirements:

• Residence Period: Applicants must have lived in Thailand on a non-immigrant visa for at least three consecutive years.
• Visa Status: Must hold a non-immigrant visa at the time of application.
• Employment: Must have employment in Thailand with a minimum annual income (varies by nationality).
• Tax Payment: Must have paid income tax in Thailand for at least three consecutive years.

Specific Categories:

1. Investment: For those who invest a minimum of 10 million THB in Thailand.
2. Employment: For those who have held a work permit and been employed in Thailand for at least three consecutive years.
3. Humanity Reasons: For those who have a Thai spouse or child.
4. Experts and Academics: For experts and academics contributing to Thai society.
5. Other Categories: Includes individuals who bring significant benefits to Thailand, such as those with special skills or talents.

3. Detailed Documentation Requirements

General Documentation:

1. Passport: Copy of the passport with all relevant visa stamps and extensions.
2. Non-Immigrant Visa: Proof of holding a non-immigrant visa for at least three consecutive years.
3. Work Permit: Copy of the current work permit and previous work permits.
4. Employment Certificate: Certificate from the employer confirming employment details and duration.
5. Income Proof: Personal income tax returns and proof of income for the past three years.
6. Marriage/ Birth Certificates: For applicants applying based on family reasons, copies of marriage and birth certificates.
7. Police Clearance Certificate: Clearance certificate from the Thai police and home country authorities.
8. Health Certificate: Medical certificate from a recognized hospital in Thailand.

Investment-Specific Documentation:

1. Investment Proof: Evidence of investment, such as bank statements, property deeds, or investment certificates.
2. Company Documents: For those investing in businesses, include company registration documents and financial statements.

Application Form:

• Form TM.9: Completed and signed application form TM.9.
• Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs.

4. Step-by-Step Application Process

Initial Preparation:

1. Eligibility Check: Verify that all eligibility criteria are met, including residence period and visa status.
2. Document Collection: Gather all required documents, ensuring they are complete and up-to-date.

Submission:

1. Application Submission: Submit the application form and supporting documents to the Immigration Bureau in Bangkok.
2. Interview: Attend an interview at the Immigration Bureau. Be prepared to answer questions about your background, employment, and reasons for applying for permanent residence.
3. Fees: Pay the applicable application fees.

Processing:

1. Application Review: The Immigration Bureau reviews the application and conducts background checks.
2. Approval Notification: Successful applicants receive a notification of approval.

Final Steps:

1. Residence Certificate: Obtain the residence certificate from the Immigration Bureau.
2. Registration: Register at the local police station and obtain a house registration certificate (Tabien Baan).
3. Alien Book: Apply for an alien book (similar to an ID card) at the local Immigration Office.

Tips for a Successful Application:

• Organized Documentation: Ensure all documents are well-organized and easily accessible.
• Complete and Accurate Forms: Double-check that all forms are fully completed and accurate.
• Professional Translation: Have all non-Thai documents translated by certified translators.

5. Case Studies and Real-Life Examples

Example 1: Employment-Based Application:

• Scenario: A British national employed in Thailand for four years with a stable job and consistent tax payments.
• Action: Submitted detailed employment records, tax returns, and work permits.
• Outcome: Successfully granted permanent residence after a smooth application process.

Example 2: Investment-Based Application:

• Scenario: An Australian investor who has invested 15 million THB in Thai real estate.
• Action: Provided investment documents, bank statements, and property deeds.
• Outcome: Approved for permanent residence due to significant investment in the country.

6. Enhancing Expertise and Credibility

Demonstrating Professional Credentials:

• Legal Partnerships: Collaborate with reputable immigration attorneys and legal experts to provide authoritative guidance.
• Experience in Permanent Residence Applications: Showcase years of experience in assisting clients with the permanent residence process.

Providing Authoritative References:

• Official Sources: Reference official documentation from the Thai Immigration Bureau and relevant Thai laws.
• Expert Insights: Include opinions and advice from recognized immigration and legal experts.

Detailed Case Studies:

• Client Testimonials: Feature testimonials from successful permanent residence applicants.
• Real-Life Scenarios: Provide comprehensive examples of different types of applicants and their experiences with the permanent residence process.

Visual Aids and Infographics:

• Application Process Flowchart: Use flowcharts to illustrate the visa application steps.
• Document Checklist: Create a checklist for required documents to help applicants organize their submissions.

By incorporating these detailed elements and demonstrating professional credentials, this guide aims to provide comprehensive, authoritative, and reliable information on the permanent residence application process in Thailand. This approach will enhance the article's depth, detail, and credibility, making it a valuable resource for foreigners seeking long-term stability in Thailand.

Thailand Elite Visa is one of the long-term visas classified as “Privilege Entry Visa”(PE) under the supervision of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports established by the Thai government. Thailand Privilege Card Co., Ltd., has the status of a state-owned enterprise that acts as management which issues the membership card for the visa term of 5, 10, and 20 years by giving the prerogative for tourist visa type for foreigners who are members and needed to have a long-term visa to stay in Thailand with good priority and excellence.

Thailand Elite Visa Cost

1. Gold Membership

Embark on a life of value with our Gold Membership, enriching your Thailand experience through a diverse selection of living choices.

• Membership Fee: THB 900,000 (Including VAT)
• Membership Duration: 5 years
• Earn 20 Points annually

2. Platinum Membership

Delve into your desired living experience with our Platinum Membership, extending your stay and offering an expanded array of choices.

• Membership Fee: THB 1,500,000 (Including VAT)
• Membership Duration: 10 years
• Additional Membership Fee: THB 1,000,000 (Including VAT/Each)
• Accumulate 35 Points per year

3. Diamond Membership

Redefined luxury living awaits with our Diamond Membership, providing a maximum 15-year stay and exclusive privileges tailored to your desires.

• Membership Fee: THB 2,500,000 (Including VAT)
• Membership Duration: 15 years
• Additional Membership Fee: THB 1,500,000 (Including VAT/Each)
• Receive 55 Points per year

4. Reserve Membership

The Reserve Card is the most exclusive offering, delivering luxury beyond measure. This package is exclusively offered to applicants via invitation.

• Membership Fee: THB 5,000,000 (Including VAT)
• Membership Duration: 20 years
• Additional Membership Fee: THB 2,000,000 (Including VAT/Each)
• Enjoy 120 Points annually

Check the Thai Elite Visa Cost from Thaiembassy.com.

How to become a Thailand Elite Member

(General information and requirements)

• Thailand Elite visa holders are not allowed to work and study in Thailand.
• If the applicant overstays in Thailand, a person with an overstaying record cannot apply(Rejected) then have to leave the country to clear the record.

Qualifications of the Applicant

1. Not having been a suspect of any criminal offense in any country except for an offense committed to negligence.
2. Not having been adjudicated bankrupt.
3. Not having been declared as a person of unsound mind, incompetence, or quasi-incompetent.
4. Being allowed to stay in Thailand in accordance with the immigration laws or any other related laws of Thailand.
5. Holding a foreign passport.
6. The applicant’s age depends on each package’s requirement.

**Please carefully check terms and conditions.

Documents Required (for Applying)

1. Copy of the 1st page of your passport. (JPEG image)
2. A copy of every Thailand stamp in your passport.
3. The passport must have at least 3 blank pages for visa stamp, the observation page is inapplicable.
4. Completed application form (6-8pages)
   • Properly scanned copy, with handwritten signature (same as passport)
5. One passport size photograph (JPEG file preferred)
   • Photographs must have a light color, plain background with a full-face view of the person without wearing a hat or dark glasses.
   • Passport size 2X2 inch (The photo should be a color photo 35-45 mm in width, close up of your face measuring between 30-36 mm, with the light background, not older than 6 months, and No retouch.)
6. Those who apply for a family package must provide proof of relationship in English. For example, a Marriage Certificate or a Birth Certificate.

Application Process

1. All required documents are prepared.
   • Copy of your passport
   • Photograph
   • Application form
   • Proof of relationship documents

2. Required Documents
   • Submit the application form and required documents to Thailand Elite Card.

3. Background Check
   • Thailand Elite will submit all documents (PDF) to the Immigration Bureau and Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
   • The process takes about 1-2 months depending on the applicant’s nationality.

4. Approval Letter, to the applicant or agent’s email provided.
   • Once your application is approved, the approval letter will be sent to you.

5. Make a payment for membership fee
   • 7 days waiting for confirmation of the payment.

6. Thailand Elite check for payment
   • Will be check the payment (3-5 working days)

When the payment is confirmed? 

Once we confirm your transaction, a welcome letter and membership ID number will be sent to you.

The applicant can later make an appointment for affixing Thailand Elite Visa. (The appointment can be made 1 month in advance and no less than 5 working days in advance before the preferred date to affix the visa). See also the Thailand Elite Visa from Thaiembassy.com.

When the membership has been activated, all members are required need to do the following:

1. 90-Day Report
2. Stay Extension
3. TM 30

Requirement while staying (in Thailand)

1. Staying in Thailand for over 90 days without leaving the country. The members are required to do a 90-Day report at the immigration office in the area of your residence. No report is required if the stay is less than 90 days per entry but if he/she wishes to stay in the country for over 90 days, a 90-Day report is required.

2. Stay Extension (Staying in Thailand for more than 1 year): you will be required to apply for a One-Year Stay Extension at the Immigration Bureau in person and must complete before the expiry date of the arrival stamp. The fee of 1,900 is applied. However, if members leave Thailand within 365 days of their stay permission, no extension is required.

3. TM 30 (House owners or landlords who accommodate foreign nationals are responsible to notify the local immigration authorities). For house owners or landlords who accommodate foreign nationals, notifications of residence for foreigners.

Note: 90-Day report and stay extension needs to have TM 30, which is the responsibility of the house owners or landlords. Who accommodate foreign nationals to notify the local immigration authorities. If the member is the owner of the house, he/she needs to provide TM 30 to the authority in the area.

A new kind of visa known as a "Smart Visa" was created specifically to draw highly skilled workers, investors, executives, and startup business owners who want to work or invest in the Kingdom of Thailand's chosen industries. Holders of Smart Visas will receive a maximum 4-year stay authorization as well as freedom from the need for a work permit and access to other benefits.

Thailand SMART Visa Benefits

If you are a foreign investor and want to enter Thailand, you may qualify for a Smart Visa. These visas are specifically designed for investors and entrepreneurs. They offer multiple benefits and are available to qualified applicants. Among the benefits are fast-track immigration service and a maximum stay of four years. There are five types of SMART Visas, each with its own set of requirements.

Types of SMART Visa

• Smart T (Talent)
• Smart I (Investor)
• Smart E (Executive)
• Smart S (Startup)
• Smart O (Other)

The first type is the SMART Startup Visa (S) which is designed for entrepreneurs looking to establish a business in Thailand. Applicants need to register a company within the first year of their SMART Visa. In addition to that, they also need to deposit 600,000 Thai baht in the Thai economy. Also, they must have health insurance. Other requirements include a plan to start a tech startup. Next, they must apply for a Qualification Endorsement. This process is done online. Applicants will need to answer questions about their qualifications, including their work experience and past research, as well as information about their intellectual property. Their applications will then be reviewed by relevant government agencies. It can take up to one month for endorsements to be processed. Once the verification process is complete, a letter of qualification will be issued. Moreover, this letter will serve as a supporting document for your Smart Visa application. After that, you will be required to report your stay in Thailand to the Immigration Department every year. During this reporting period, you must provide proof of your current residence in the country. You should submit your WP3 document, police certificate and a copy of your SMART Visa application form. Finally, you will be required to show a valid passport and proof of health insurance. Alternatively, you can also apply for the Smart Visa in the overseas embassy. However, this option is more complex. Besides the fact that you will be required to present a copy of your Smart Visa sticker, you must also report any incorrect information on it to the consular officer. Aside from that, you can still enjoy the benefits of the SMART Visa, such as a free pass to enter the country and unlimited access to its border. Another Smart Visa category is the SMART Other Visa. This applies to spouses and legitimate children of smart visa holders. During this period, the spouses and children can also live and work in Thailand without a work permit. Generally, a Thai worker will be allowed to stay in the country for up to four years and a Thai investor is eligible for the Visa for a maximum of two years. Unlike other visa categories, this Visa category does not require re-entry permits. Investors can qualify for the SMART Visa "E". This Visa requires investment in an S-curve industry in Thailand or in an incubator or accelerator program in the country. Moreover, it requires a minimum of ten years of work experience in the field and a monthly income of at least 200,000 Thai baht.

The Thai government has announced that it will launch a new visa scheme targeting high-potential foreigners. It will offer a long-term resident visa, which will grant a tax advantage to qualifying foreigners. This visa scheme will be implemented from 1 September 2022. The government hopes to attract one million eligible foreigners over the next five years. The LTR visa is expected to be an important step towards the economic development of Thailand. It will facilitate foreigners to live and work legally in the country for a period of up to 10 years. A number of foreigners are expected to apply for the visa, including those with experience in a targeted industry.

Qualification

To qualify for the new visa, applicants need to have at least a master's degree in science or technology. They must also possess a minimum of five years of experience in a targeted industry. These individuals will be eligible for a reduced personal income tax rate of 17%. Additionally, they will receive a tax exemption for their overseas income. In addition, they will be able to invest in government bonds and invest in foreign direct investments.

Requirements

The Thai government has also outlined certain requirements for the application of a long-term resident visa. Qualifying individuals will need to have earned a minimum of USD 80,000 over the last two years. Applicants who want to work in a targeted industry in Thailand are required to have access to a specialized training institution. They must also have health insurance. If they work in a government institution, they do not need to have a minimum income, though they will need to have at least a hundred thousand dollars in savings. Similarly, digital nomads, who plan to work from Thailand, will also need to have at least a fifty-thousand-dollar health insurance policy. Foreigners will be required to submit an online application and pay an application fee of 50,000 baht. After registering, applicants will be notified of their results within twenty days. Afterward, they can apply for the visa through a Thai embassy or Royal Thai Consulate General.

LTR Visa

The Thai LTR Visa is intended to bring wealthy, financially independent, high-potential foreigners to the Kingdom. It will be available to specialists, professionals, digital nomads, and retirees. Also, dependents of these individuals will be able to obtain the same visa. Dependents can include children under the age of 20 and spouses. Several governmental agencies have cooperated in the development of the new visa. The Ministry of Finance and the Board of Investment approved the new scheme, which is expected to stimulate more overseas investment in the country. Meanwhile, the Thai government hopes to attract one million qualified foreigners over the next five years. Before Cabinet approval of the new visa, the visa fee was set at 100,000 baht per applicant. However, it is expected to be cut down to 50,000 baht per applicant. Therefore, it will be easier for a large number of qualified immigrants to enter the country.