Thailand Elite Visa Explained: Opportunities and Advantages
Welcome to our detailed exploration of the Thailand Elite Visa, an exclusive program designed for international visitors, investors, and expatriates seeking long-term residence in Thailand. This guide provides a thorough overview of the visa’s different membership tiers, each tailored to meet a variety of lifestyle and travel needs. Our objective is to ensure you have all the necessary information to make an informed decision about acquiring this prestigious visa and enjoying the myriad benefits it offers.
Understanding Thailand Elite Visa(Privilege) Memberships
Thailand Elite Visa (Privilege) Membership Options
The Thailand Elite Visa program has since October 2023 changed his name and offers : it is now named Thailand Privilege Long term Visas and now offers a new range of membership tiers, each providing varying levels of benefits and validity periods to meet the diverse needs of international residents:
Thailand Gold Visa Membership:
- Duration: 5 years
- Cost: 900,000 THB
- Benefits: Designed for those seeking short to mid-term residency with basic privileges of travel and stay.
Thailand Visa Platinum Membership:
- Duration: 10 years
- Cost: 1,500,000 THB
- Benefits: Offers extended residency for those looking to maintain longer connections with Thailand, including additional lifestyle benefits.
Thailand Visa Diamond Membership:
- Duration: 15 years
- Cost: 2,500,000 THB
- Benefits: Tailored for long-term residents seeking comprehensive benefits spanning healthcare, hospitality, and travel services.
Thailand Visa Reserve Membership:
- Duration: 20 years
- Cost: 5,000,000 THB
- Benefits: The ultimate membership package providing the most extensive array of privileges and longest duration, ideal for lifetime visitors or permanent expatriates.
Choosing the Right Thai Elite Visa Membership
Selecting the right Thailand Elite Visa membership depends on your travel frequency, the duration of your stays, and the level of convenience you desire during your time in Thailand. Each tier is designed to provide a distinct level of comfort and access, ensuring that you can find the perfect match for your lifestyle and needs.
If you are interested to apply for the Thailand Elite Visa and/or have any question, do not hesitate to contact the team at Keller Henson to have a personal dedicated assistance all along the way. Keller Henson being an official agent for Thailand Elite Visa.
You can also refer below to our Frequently Asked Question about Thailand Elite Visa membership and its application.
Step-by-Step Guide to get a Thailand Elite Visa
This guide is intended to provide a formal and detailed steps for prospective applicants of the Thailand Elite Visa. The process involves several crucial steps, from assessing eligibility to the final receipt of the visa, each designed to ensure compliance, satisfaction and a smooth application process.
Step 1: Eligibility Check
Step 2: Choose Your Thai Elite Visa Membership Tier
Step 3: Submission of Application
Step 4: Pay the Membership Fee
Step 5: Application Processing
Step 6: Visa Issuance
Step 7: Enjoy Your Benefits
Why Choose Keller Henson as Thailand Elite Visa Agent?
Choosing Keller Henson as your Thailand Elite Visa agent ensures a seamless and personalized experience. Keller Henson stands out for its extensive expertise and commitment to providing exceptional service. With deep knowledge of Thailand’s immigration landscape and strong relationships with local authorities, Keller Henson can navigate complex procedures efficiently. This expertise, combined with a focus on tailoring solutions to individual needs, makes Keller Henson an ideal partner for securing your Thailand Elite Visa, ensuring a smooth transition to life in Thailand.
Elite Visas For Families
- With the 10 years Thailand Platinum Membership available at 1,500,000 THB, each additional family member will cost 1,000,000 THB. (2,500,000 THB for 2 persons).
- With the 15 years Thailand Platinum Membership available at 2,500,000 THB, each additional family member will cost 1,500,000 THB. (4,000,000 THB for 2 persons).
- With the 20 years Thailand Reserve Membership available at 5,000,000 THB, each additional family member will cost 2,000,000 THB. (7,000,000 THB for 2 persons).
Application Fee Update
At Keller Henson Co., Ltd., we understand that investing in property can be a complex and sometimes daunting process. That’s why we strive to make the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible for our clients. As such, we want to inform you of an important update regarding application fees for our membership program.
Starting from January 1, 2024, all application forms submitted via our portal must be accompanied by proof of initial payment of 50,000 Baht (inclusive of valued added tax per membership) as an application fee. This fee will be deductible as part of the Membership fee in case the applicant is approved by the immigration office. Please note that failure to complete the payment within 30 days after receiving the invoice will result in the forfeiture of the application fee. In this case, the applicant will be required to submit a new membership application with the additional application fee of 50,000 Baht.
It’s important to note that the application fee of 50,000 Baht is refundable only in the event that the background check turns out as “not approved”. A processing fee will be applied for the refund. We highly recommend using a bank transfer for a seamless transaction and easier reconciliation, and the bank details will be provided to you shortly. Please keep in mind that applications without proof of application fee payment will not be proceeded to the background check stage.
At Keller Henson Co., Ltd., we are committed to providing our clients with the highest level of service and expertise in real estate. If you have any questions or concerns about the membership application process or any other real estate matters, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in finding the perfect property to suit your needs.
Additional documents for applicants with previous education visa record
It is important to note that the acceptance of applicants with previous education visa record is subject to the submission of additional supporting documents which are as follows:
- School Establishment License from Ministry of Education (สช.2) or the Office of Basic Educational Commission (OBEC) or the Office of Private Educational Commission (OPEC)
- School registration (ร.2)
- Student Certification from school
- Academic Record, grade reports and attendance record
- Class Activities photos (If available)
- Although the submission of the above documents is essential for the application, please be reminded that the approval is not guaranteed. The decision will be made based on a comprehensive review process by the immigration office and relevant parties.
Applicants with previous education visa are required to submit all necessary documentation to support the approval process.
Importance of providing accurate and up-to-date contact information in membership application forms
We want to inform you that we have received feedback from both relevant government agencies and our internal units regarding challenges in contacting our members. This has led to difficulties in verifying members’ identities and has resulted in undesired consequences.
In light of this, we would like to emphasize the critical importance of providing accurate and up-to-date contact information. Ensuring the submission of all necessary documents will greatly assist in preventing any potential issues. Your cooperation in this matter is highly appreciated and will contribute to a smoother and more secure experience for all parties involved.
We would like to highlight that Keller Henson is here at your service to assist in organizing any documents and providing advice about the legal documents required for the elite visa program. Our expertise will ensure that your submissions are comprehensive and meet all necessary criteria.
Privilege Entry Visa Consideration
It is crucial to recognize that the Thailand Privilege Card Membership provides eligibility for the Privilege Entry Visa; however, the ultimate decision to grant or deny the visa lies solely with the immigration officer.
During the visa affixing process, immigration officers may request additional information or seek clarification directly from the applicants. Hence, we strongly recommend that all applicants be well-prepared to furnish accurate and comprehensive answers to any questions posed by the immigration officer.
In facilitating a smoother processing experience for our clients, we are pleased to inform you that Keller Henson, a dedicated real estate agent is available to assist in making preparations for a seamless application process. Our consultant will contribute to ensuring that clients are well-prepared and equipped to address any inquiries that may arise during the visa application process.
Thailand Elite Visa FAQ
What is a Thailand Elite Visa and what are the conditions?
You are able to apply for the Thailand Elite visa at any age. Thailand Elite Visa allows you to purchase freehold condominiums in Thailand as a foreigner. Thailand Elite Visa is offering 4 different programs, of 5, 10, 15 and 20 years, personal or under family, with a health package and various privileges offered.
How can I apply for a Thailand Elite Visa?
The information needed from you to apply for a Thai Elite Visa are the following:
– Completed Elite Visa application form (contact us to request a form).
– Copy of your passport data page, current Thai visa (if any) and copy of most recent Thailand entry/exit details, current visa.
– High resolution picture, preferably passport quality (jpg format).
What is Thailand Elite Visa application process
– Submission of application document.
– Approval process by Thai government and Thai Ministry of – – Foreign Affairs (approx. 2 months).
– Approval letter received by the Thai Government.
– Payment of the Elite Visa fee.
– Visa delivered and affixed at airport during next arrival into Thailand or at the Thai Embassy/Consulate of your country of residence.
Is there a nationality list able to apply for Thailand Elite Visa?
Nationals of Afghanistan, Algeria, Cameroon, Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Guinea, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Nigeria, North Korea, Pakistan, Palestine, Republic of the Congo, Sao Tome and Principe, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen are currently ineligible to apply for a Thailand Elite Membership. Any person who has more than one over-stay record in Thailand in the past three years is not eligible to apply for a Thailand Elite Membership.
When does the Thailand Elite Visa starts to be active?
Your Elite Visa will start on the date the Welcome Letter (approval letter) has been issued. You can start to account the years of validity according to your membership from the date you received your Thailand Elite Member Welcome Letter.
Can I apply for a Thailand Elite Visa from abroad?
The entire Thailand Elite Visa application can be realized from overseas. No need to stay in Thailand to apply for Thai Elite Visa. The Thailand Elite Visa will be delivered and affixed at airport during next arrival into Thailand. You can also have the visa affixed in the Thai Embassy/Consulate of your country of residence before the departure. The team at Keller Henson is ready to assist you to proceed a Thailand Elite Visa application remotely, anywhere you are in the world.
What are Keller Henson fees for my Elite Visa application?
There are no fees. As an official representative of Thailand Elite, Keller Henson is promoting the benefits of staying in the Kingdom of Thailand. The team at Keller Henson is ready to assist you to proceed a Thailand Elite Visa application locally & also remotely, anywhere you are in the world. The administrative fee related to the application is paid to us by the Thai Government after an application has been duly completed.
Am I allowed to work in Thailand with an Elite Visa?
The Thailand Elite Visa membership does not allow to work in Thailand. In case of an Elite Visa member wishes to apply for a work permit in Thailand, the Thailand Elite Visa will have to be cancelled as both visa can’t be cumulated.
As a Thai Elite Visa member, who can I contact when I am in Thailand?
Thailand Elite Visa members beneficiate of a call center speaking various languages such as English (24/7) and Japanese, Korean & Mandarin (6.00am – 9.00pm Bangkok Time GMT+7). The team at Keller Henson is also always available and dedicated to help our applicants no matter they are staying overseas or in Thailand.
What are the privileges of being a member of the Thailand Elite Visa program?
When part of the Thailand Elite Visa members, various privileges are offered such as: VIP greetings at airport with escort, Special Immigration service, no queue at airport, exclusive departure and arrival lounge, free limousine transfer, networking events, members contact center speaking English, Japanese Mandarin & Korean, golfs complimentary 18 hole grounds, complimentary Spas treatments, discounts on golfs, spas, restaurants, hotels, international hospitals, leading department stores and malls. Please refer to the conditions subject to each membership.
Can a third party pay the Thai Elite Visa application fee?
Yes, with disclosed relationship and required supporting documents
What happens if a Thailand Elite Visa applicant’s passport expires?
The visa remains valid for five years, transferred to a new passport with a minimum validity requirement. Procedures for updating information are outlined.
What are the additional costs for family members on a Thai Elite Visa?
– With the 10 years Thailand Platinum Membership available at 1,500,000 THB, each additional family member will cost 1,000,000 THB.
– With the 15 years Thailand Platinum Membership available at 2,500,000 THB, each additional family member will cost 1,500,000 THB.
– With the 20 years Thailand Reserve Membership available at 5,000,000 THB, each additional family member will cost 2,000,000 THB.
How does an applicant obtain a visa under the Thai Preferred Residency Program?
The visa can be affixed in several places on the applicant’s passport:– Immigration (for foreigners living in Thailand and only available on weekdays)– Designated airports: Bangkok Suvarnabhumi and Phuket airports: 24/7 service for direct international flights or Chiang Mai Airport: Service available 24/7, EPA-free. If the successful applicant wishes to have their visa issued while in transit in Thailand, they must ensure that there is a gap of four to five hours between flights and must inform the Member Contact Center at the time of booking. You must give five days notice before receiving your visa at the airport. This is the preferred and most effective option– local Thai embassy or consulate (restrictions may apply). For applicants who hold two or more passports, the Privilege Thailand visa will only be included in the passport issued during the application process.
What happens to a Thai Elite Visa issued after the applicant’s passport expires?
The Thailand Preferred Residence Program visa has a validity period of five years and can be extended based on the selected residency program. The visa will be placed in the applicant’s passport based on the remaining validity of the passport. If an applicant’s passport expires before the end of the five-year visa period, any remaining years of the visa will be transferred to their new passport. This protocol aligns with the Immigration Regulations of Thailand, which dictate that if an applicant’s current passport is not valid for at least five years, the visa will be issued according to the passport’s validity date, and its remaining validity will be transferred to the new passport when obtained. It is required that the applicant’s current passport have at least three blank pages for the Thailand Preferred Residence Program application.
As an example, a golden card package with a visa validity period of five years, a passport with a validity period of September 30, 2020, and a visa issuance date of April 1, 2017 will have a validity period in the passport from April 1, 2017, to September 30, 2020, which is equal to three and a half years. The remaining validity of one and a half years will be added to the new passport in designated locations. To update the visa information, the Member Contact Center should be contacted when a new passport is received to update the passport’s personal information page. A reservation will be required to include the visa’s remaining validity in the new passport.
What documentation is required when applying for the Thailand Elite Visa
To initiate the application process, the applicant should complete and sign an application form along with a PDPA form. Additionally, the following supporting documents are required:
– A copy of the biodata page from each applicant’s passport.
– A high-resolution, color passport-sized photo or a digital photo.
– A copy of the birth certificate.
– A copy of the marriage certificate (only for family applications to establish the relationship with the main applicant).
– Copies of any Thai visas and entry stamps found in the passport.
Please note that the passport must have a minimum validity of one year and three blank pages. If any of the documents are not in English, they must be translated, and these translations should be notarized or certified as accurate translations by the translation company, including their official stamp.
What is the processing time for a Thailand Elite Visa application?
Typically, you can expect to receive an approval in principle within one to three months from the submission of your application.
Can Thailand Elite Visa applicants can work in Thailand?
The Thailand Privilege Residence Program visa does not permit work in Thailand.
Does the Thailand Elite visa lead to permanent residence or citizenship?
No, the privilege entry visa does not lead to permanent residence or Thai citizenship.
What are the rules for obtaining Thai permanent residence?
To apply, the applicant must have held a Thai non-immigrant visa for three consecutive years.
What are the rules for obtaining Thai citizenship?
Thai permanent residents can apply for citizenship after ten consecutive years, with annual quotas announced by the Ministry of Interior.
How can Keller Henson assist in Elite Visa preparations?
Keller Henson’s expertise lies in helping clients organize essential documents and providing guidance on legal documentation required for the Elite Visa Program. While the final decision rests with immigration officers, Keller Henson ensures that applicants are well-prepared to address any queries during the visa affixing process.
How much does cost a Thailand Elite Visa?
The starting cost of the Thailand Elite Visa 5 years (Gold Membership) is now at 900,000 baht all included. Keller Henson agency can assist to proceed the application from overseas and the visa will be affixed on the passport at the airport during your next arrival into Thailand or at your closest Thai Embassy/Consulate before the departure in Thailand. The process is taking about 3 months in total. (Approval Letter given to the applicant by Thai Government takes about 2 months approximately). Starting from October 1st 2023, the 5 years Thailand Elite Visa – Gold Membership costs 900,000 THB.
Can I receive an Elite Visa as a property buyer in Thailand?
Starting from January 2021, the Thai government is opening a Flexible Elite Visa program: “Thailand Elite Property Visa” for real estate investors purchasing a new property of minimum 10,000,000 THB. Not all the real estate developers are part of the Thailand Flexible Elite Visa program. Contact the team at Keller Henson for more information. AS OF OCTOBER 2023 THIS PROGRAM HAS BEEN REMOVED.
Is there a minimum age to apply for the Thai Elite Visa?
Any age is accepted to join the Thailand Elite Visa program under a family Membership. You can add your partner and kids under your personal Thailand Elite Visa membership.
How long is a Thailand Elite Visa valid?
Thailand Elite Visa is offering 4 different memberships, of 5, 10, 15 and 20 years, personal, with various privileges offered. The cost starts at 900,000 THB (Thailand Elite Gold Membership).
Can I apply for a Thailand Elite visa with my family ?
Thailand Elite Visa stopped to offer family membership program in October 2023 but some memberships have a discount for an additional family member. As of now four membership remains, the memberships are individual.
– With the 10 years Thailand Platinum Membership available at 1,500,000 THB, each additional family member will cost 1,000,000 THB.
– With the 15 years Thailand Platinum Membership available at 2,500,000 THB, each additional family member will cost 1,500,000 THB.
– With the 20 years Thailand Reserve Membership available at 5,000,000 THB, each additional family member will cost 2,000,000 THB.
Contact us for more details and recommendation according to your personal situation.
Is there any additional fees on top of the Thai Elite Visa membership?
One time fee. No additional fee will be requested for any of Thailand Elite Visas memberships.
Once the Thailand Elite Visa application is completed, what happens upon my arrival in Thailand?
Once you receive your Thailand Elite Visa Welcome Letter, your visa is confirmed by the Thai Immigration. You can safely book your flight to Thailand. Once arrived at Bangkok or Phuket International Airport, a VIP Greetings escort will take care of you and affix your visa at the airport. Special Immigration service, no queue at airport, exclusive departure and arrival lounge & free limousine transfer are granted to Thailand Elite Visa members.
Can I open a Thai bank account as a Thailand Elite member?
With the Thailand Elite visa you are able to open a Thai bank account. The team at Keller Henson will assist you locally in Thailand to go at the bank and open an account. The big majority of banks present in Thailand will allow an elite visa member to open a bank account. The opening of a bank account can’t be done from overseas, it is necessary to be locally present at the bank in order to open a Thai bank account. Owner of condominiums in Thailand are also able to open a Thai bank account.
Can I purchase a property in Thailand as a Thai Elite Visa Member?
Yes you can legally purchase a property in Thailand as a Thailand Elite Visa member. Condominiums in Thailand can be purchased under freehold ownership. You can contact the team at Keller Henson, operating in various cities such as Bangkok, Phuket, Koh Samui, Hua Hin and Pattaya. Check out the new properties for sale in Thailand from various developers with Keller Henson.
Do I have to renew my Thailand Elite Visa?
The Thailand Elite Visa doesn’t need to be renewed, though immigration report are required. Elite Visa members beneficiate of special immigration service with VIP assistance for the 90 days report. If you are going out of Thailand with an international flight within 90 days from your date of arrival, no immigration report are required. If you are staying in Thailand for a longer period than 90 days, an immigration report is required to be done every 90 days. Elite Visa members having a special immigration service with VIP assistance for the 90 days report.
Where can the Thailand Privilege Residence Program visa be affixed?
Affixing locations include immigration bureau, designated airports, and local Thai embassies or consulates. Certain visa holders can affix without prior visa cancellation.
What are the four Thai Elite Visa membership programs offered by Keller Henson?
– Thailand Gold Membership – 5 years – 900,000 THB
– Thailand Platinum Membership – 10 years – 1,500,000 THB
– Thailand Diamond Membership- 15 years – 2,500,000 THB
– Thailand Reserve Membership – 20 years – 5,000,000 THB
Can I apply to Thailand Elite Visa to avoid leaving the country in a situation of overstaying in Thailand?
Individuals who are overstaying in Thailand are not eligible to obtain a Thailand Privilege visa. In such cases, it is mandatory for the individual to exit the country to rectify their current entry status. Moreover, any applicant with a history of multiple overstays within the three years leading up to their application will not meet the eligibility criteria for the Thailand Privilege Residence Program. Regardless of whether a welcome letter has been issued, individuals with a current overstay record will not be permitted to have the privilege entry visa stamped in their passport while in Thailand. They must first leave the country to resolve their overstay situation.
Which visas can applicants apply for a Thailand Preferred Residence Program visa without prior cancellation?
Only visa applicants who hold one of the following visas can obtain a preferential entry visa without prior visa cancellation:
– Tourist visa
– Visa on arrival
– Visa issued
Some nationalities are required to apply for a tourist visa before entering Thailand in order to be eligible for a visa under the Thai Preferred Residency Program
Is it true that a non-immigrant business visa is canceled upon receipt of a visa under Thailand’s preferred residency program?
A visa applicant who is in Bangkok, Thailand and has a non-immigrant visa must complete the process of canceling the non-immigrant visa and apply for a preferential visa for Thailand on the same day (cancel in the morning and obtain the preferential visa for Thailand. in the afternoon). For applicants staying in other provinces outside of Bangkok, the applicant may request a seven-day extension as a buffer time for travel to Bangkok. These individuals can then obtain a Thailand Privilege visa during the seven-day extension period.
What is the 90-day report, and does a Thailand Elite Visa member need to present themselves for the 90-day report?
According to Thailand Immigration law, all members of the Thailand Privilege Residence Program are required to complete and submit a 90-day report either 15 days before or seven days after the end of their 90-day period. However, if a member leaves Thailand at any time during the 90-day period, the counting of days will reset to day one upon their return to Thailand. For those holding a Thailand Privilege Residence Program visa, the 90-day report service can be redeemed for one point, and the member only needs to inform TPC at least 14 days in advance if they plan to stay in Thailand for more than 90 days and request TPC to submit the report on their behalf. To do so, the member must drop off their passport at TPC headquarters in Bangkok on a Monday and collect it on Friday afternoon. Alternatively, for members staying in Phuket, Chiang Mai, and Chonburi, passports may be dropped off at TPC’s contracted agents in each respective province.
What qualifications are required for an applicant to apply for a Thailand Elite Visa?
The applicant must meet and continuously maintain the following qualifications:
– Should not have a criminal conviction resulting in imprisonment in any country, except for offenses due to negligence.
– Must not have been declared bankrupt.
– Must not be officially recognized as an individual with a severe mental disability.
– Should not have a history of overstaying more than one visa in Thailand within the three years leading up to the application.
– Must be permitted to stay in Thailand in compliance with Thai immigration laws or related regulations.
– Must possess a foreign passport.
– Must be legally competent under Thai law.
Can Thailand Elite Visa applicants buy real estate and a car in Thailand?
Yes, applicants can own real estate and purchase a car, with government concierge services assisting in driver’s license applications.
What are the tax implications for Thailand Elite Visa applicants?
Taxation in Thailand depends on residence status and income source, with specific regulations for residents and non-residents.
Can Thailand Elite Visa applicants obtain a tax resident certificate or tax identification number?
Yes, applicants can get a tax resident certificate when spending over 180 days in Thailand. A tax identification number is obtainable for those with income in Thailand.
How does Keller Henson assist with the Elite Visa Program?
Keller Henson, a distinguished real estate agency in Thailand, specializes in providing comprehensive assistance to individuals applying for the Elite Visa Program. While the Elite Visa Program itself is managed independently, Keller Henson steps in to streamline the process for clients, focusing on real estate aspects and ensuring a smooth application experience.
