Thailand Elite Visa Program [Pros & Cons]
Are you thinking of traveling to Thailand? If so, you may be interested in the Thailand Elite Visa Program. This program offers a number of benefits to travelers, including fast-track airport immigration, free visa extensions, and discounts at participating businesses. However, the Thailand Elite Visa Program also has its drawbacks. In this blog post, we will discuss the pros and cons of the program so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not it is right for you.
Members of the Thailand Privilege Card are eligible for a long-term visa called the Thailand Elite Visa. It falls under the category of a “tourist visa” (Privilege Entry Visa, or “PE”) and entitles holders to benefits and residency in Thailand for a period of 5, 10, or 20 years in exchange for a membership fee.
Key Takeaways
- The Thailand Elite Visa Program is one of the most popular programs for those who want to visit Thailand.
- The goal of the program is to help both high-earning and wealthy foreigners immigrate to Thailand. This can be done either by providing them with a privileged entry visa or by giving them the opportunity to apply for a long-term multiple-stay visa that would let them remain in the country permanently for up to 20 years.
- The Thailand Elite Visa offers a number of benefits including VIP services, concierge services, 24/7 assistance, and more.
Do You Plan to Live in Thailand?
Thailand is a great place to live as an ex-pat. The country offers many advantages for those who want to live in this country. The weather is warm and sunny, which makes it easy to get around. There are several beaches where you can enjoy swimming and sunbathing. There are also many cultural events that you can attend, such as festivals and parades.
The people in Thailand are very friendly and welcoming. The language barrier will not be a problem because most people speak English at least at an advance and basic level. Additionally, the cost of living is quite reasonable, so you will not have any trouble finding affordable housing or food.
If you would like to know if you can live in Thailand without speaking Thai, this article is for you! We explain here and answer some frequently asked questions about living in Thailand without knowing Thai.
What is a Thailand Elite Visa?
The Thailand Privilege Card Company Limited, which falls under the Ministry of Tourism and Sport’s domain, is responsible for managing the Thailand Elite Visa. The said visa is offered to those who wish to partake in the country’s privileged entry visa program and grants holders a long-term stay.
The goal of the program is to help both high-earning and wealthy foreigners immigrate to Thailand. This can be done either by providing them with a privileged entry visa or by giving them the opportunity to apply for a long-term multiple-stay visa that would let them remain in Bangkok permanently for up to 20 years.
The hassle-free travel that eVisa offers works well for digital nomads who don’t want to do visa runs, retirees who would rather avoid feeling stressed out by constantly changing regulations, or investors and businesspeople who often need to fly in and out of Thailand.
Membership Programs Options
Thailand Elite Visa offers several membership programs that can help you get the most out of your time in Thailand, here are some:
Family Excursion (5 Years)
Thailand Elite provides the Thailand Elite Visa Program to entitled individuals and their families. The Thailand Elite program is a five-year membership that requires at least two applicants to enroll jointly. All Elite Family Excursion participants will be escorted quickly through immigration and airport procedures, and they can take advantage of a free, long- and short-distance airport transfer service to their preferred location, whether it’s to a hotel in the city center or a beachfront property in Pattaya.
Thailand Elite members also receive a complimentary golf membership card that provides access to Thailand’s best golf courses, as well as many privileges and discounts on health care and lifestyle services. With so many benefits, the Thailand Elite Visa Program is the perfect way to enjoy all that Thailand has to offer.
Elite Maxima Health (5 Years)
As they say, health is riches. Whether you’re visiting Thailand for business or for pleasure, you should always have the highest peace of mind. You shouldn’t stress too much about your health or the possibility of becoming sick when traveling.
You can benefit from the full range of services provided by Thailand’s world-class healthcare system with the new Elite Maxima Health Membership.
With this brand-new Thailand Elite Membership Card, you may visit the country’s leading medical facilities and specialists, giving you access to invaluable health advice. Should you experience a medical emergency, Thailand’s hospitals are available to help you every day of the week, around-the-clock.
You can feel confident knowing that Thailand’s healthcare is of the highest caliber available.
Elite Alternative (10 Years)
If you’re looking to have the best possible time in Thailand, whether it’s for a vacation or permanently relocating there, Elite Family Alternative is the company for you. With VIP airport service and an Elite personal assistant, they’ll make sure that your family has a hassle-free experience from start to finish.
Exiled offers many services to its members, some of which include help contacting government agencies, creating bank accounts and driver’s licenses, 24/7 customer support center access, and much more.
You and your family will have the trip of a lifetime in Thailand with all these amazing features from Thailand Elite. Whether you’re planning a longer vacation or a quick getaway, we’ve got you covered.
Elite Superiority Extension (20 Years)
The Thailand Elite Visa Program is designed to make it easier for foreigners to live and work in Thailand. As a member, you are entitled to access all of the program’s benefits, including the Elite personal liaison (EPL) service. The EPL service can help you with a range of tasks, from negotiating the complicated immigration process to getting a driving license and extending your stay. In addition, the EPL service provides 90-day report services, so you can be sure that you are complying with the program’s requirements.
Elite Ultimate Privileges (20 Years)
The Elite Ultimate Privilege Membership is a 20-year multiple-entry visa that allows visitors to participate in local events, explore Thailand’s unseen aspects, and make the most of their experiences without worrying about obtaining a visa.
Elite Ultimate Privilege Membership offers a warm welcome as well as ultimate privileges of unmatched services to ensure the utmost comfort and convenience for an unforgettable stay in Thailand unlike any other.
What are the Benefits of the Thailand Elite Visa?
The Thailand Elite Visa offers a number of benefits, including:
Elite pass to Thailand
Thai Elite Visa holders will receive airport transportation services, golfing privileges, spa treatments and annual health check-ups are among some of the many wonderful benefits associated with it.
Recognition & Facilitation
The holder of a Thai Elite visa is allowed to remain in Thailand for an extended period of time without having to flee the land as is customary or perform visa runs as is necessary for other visa kinds.
Thai Elite Visa holders are required to submit a report every 90 days, which will be completed by Thai Elite staff.
Concierge services
The Thailand Elite Visa is a great option for people who want to take advantage of the benefits and services that the Thai government has to offer. One of these benefits is the concierge service, which can be used to help you plan your trip, find events and things to do, and more. This is a great option for people who are looking for a little extra help in planning their trip.
VIP services
The Visa holder will receive a fast track through passport control when arriving in Thailand and special immigration treatment.
In addition to these benefits, the holder of the Visa will also relish airport assistance; golf, spa therapies, and annual clinic check-ups; as well as shopping—plus hotel/resort dining experiences.
Exclusive offers
Thai Elite Visa holders are also entitled to exclusive offers and discounts on hotels, resorts, golf courses and more. This can be a great way to save money when traveling in Thailand.
24/7 assistance
The Thai Elite Visa holder will also have access to 24/7 assistance and support from a dedicated team of travel experts. This is another great benefit, as it can be very helpful when planning your next vacation.
Thai hospitality and quality of service
Thai Elite Visa holders will also enjoy the benefits of Thai hospitality and quality of service. This can make a huge difference when traveling in Thailand, as you’ll enjoy top-notch amenities and services at every hotel or resort that accepts a Thai Elite Visa.
What are the Disadvantages of the Thailand Elite Visa?
The Thailand Elite Visa is a great option for those who want to live in Thailand and work remotely. However, there are a few drawbacks that you should consider before applying for the visa.
Large up-front costs
The only requirement to hold the Thai Elite Visa is that the applicant must pay a membership fee of between 600,000 and 2 million Thai baht. This is a very large amount of money and can be difficult to find. The up-front cost of this visa also means that it cannot be used by those without financial resources.
Elite Visas may not be suitable for everyone.
For some people, the large up-front costs are not worth the benefits of holding an elite visa. For example, if you are not planning on moving to Thailand for long periods of time then it may make more sense to apply for a normal tourist visa instead.
No workings privileges
The Thailand Elite Visa is a great option for people who want to visit Thailand for a short period of time. However, it does have some drawbacks.
The Elite Visa does not grant you consent to work or apply for an occupation permit—it is, in effect, just like a glorified Multiple Entry Tourist Visa. This means that you will have no working privileges while you are in Thailand with this visa.
Maybe you’re wondering if you can work remotely when you live in Thailand. To learn more about this topic, visit our blog here.
Can’t convert to any other type of visas
Thailand is a beautiful country with a lot to offer tourists and ex-pats alike. Its tropical climate, sandy beaches, and friendly people make it an appealing destination for many. However, those looking to move to Thailand long-term may be disappointed to learn that the Elite Visa cannot be converted to any other type of visa. (unless you are planning on traveling abroad) This means that if you want to stay in Thailand longer than a period, you will need to reapply for the Elite Visa or apply for a different type of visa altogether.
What are the qualifications for Thai Elite?
The Thai Elite program was created to attract high-net-worth individuals and families to live, work, study, and retire in Thailand. In exchange for a fee, members are granted a multiple-entry visa that allows them to stay in the country for up to five years at a time. There is no minimum age requirement to join the Thai Elite program, though members must be at least twenty years of age to apply for the Elite Ultimate Privilege (Grand Package). Other than that, the only qualification for Thai Elite membership is not being bankrupt. By becoming a member of the Thai Elite program, you can enjoy all that Thailand has to offer while knowing that you are in compliance with immigration laws.
What is the cost of the Thai Elite Visa Cost?
Thailand offers a unique visa program for those who are looking to live in the country for an extended period of time. The Thailand Elite Visa Program allows members to live in Thailand for up to 20 years, and it provides a number of benefits, including access to exclusive airport lounges and VIP concierge services. The membership price ranges from 600,000 to 2 million Thai baht depending on the package chosen. Payment can be made by bank transfer.
How to Get Thailand Elite Visa?
You can apply for a Thai Elite Visa from anywhere in the world, including Thailand. All you have to do is send a duplicate of your passport and form to an accredited agent—the one who will process it on your behalf.
Procedures and time frame of the program
The agent will first consult with the Thailand Elite Office, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and possibly even the Immigration Bureau to conduct immigration and background checks. Most nationalities can expect their applications to be processed within one month—but unique countries may take up to three months.
Thailand Elite Visa Program FAQs
Does the Thai Elite Visa have any nationality restrictions?
The Thai Elite Visa is available to citizens from all over the world, except for citizens from the following African countries: Central Africa, Cameroon, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Republic of Congo (RoC) Equatorial Guinea, Ghana Liberia Nigeria Sierra Leone, and Somalia.
How long is the Thai Elite Visa application process?
The Thai Elite Membership and Thai Elite Visa application process can take anywhere from 3 weeks to 2 months. The determining factor is usually the applicant’s nationality. In some cases, such as when there is a criminal record or immigration issue, the process may take longer. However, in most cases, the process is relatively straightforward and can be completed within a few weeks.
What is the passport validity that is required for this Elite visa process?
The passport validity that is required for the Elite visa process is preferably 5 years. This is to ensure that you have enough time on your passport to cover the duration of your visa. There are a few reasons why it is important to have a valid passport. First, it ensures that you can travel freely without having to worry about your passport expiration. Second, it allows you to take advantage of all the benefits that come with having a valid passport. Finally, it helps to prevent problems that may arise if your passport expires while you are in the process of applying for a visa.
Do I have to appear in person for the Thai Elite application?
The Thai Elite application does not require you to appear in person. You can submit your application online and the Thai Embassy will process it for you. However, there are some benefits to appearing in person. For example, if you have any questions about the application process, the staff at the Thai Embassy will be able to assist you. Ultimately, whether or not you appear in person for the Thai Elite application is up to you.
Is there an income requirement to hold the Thai Elite visa?
When considering a move to Thailand, many people wonder what the income requirements are for holding a Thai Elite visa. The good news is that there is no income requirement for this visa. Instead, a fee is required, ranging from six million to twenty million Thai baht. It’s important to note that applicants for the Thai Elite visa must not have a bankrupt status – otherwise, they will not be eligible for membership. Overall, the lack of an income requirement makes the Thai Elite visa an attractive option for those looking to relocate to Thailand.
Can Thai Elite Visa holders buy real estate in Thailand?
The Thailand Elite Flexible One Program allows foreigner investors to purchase real estate and apply for a privileged multiple-entry visa.
If you are planning to put up a business in Thailand as an expat, It will be best if you read our article about that here.
Conclusion
If you are looking to relocate to Thailand and enjoy all of the perks that the country has to offer, then the Thai Elite Visa may be a good option for you. This program offers streamlined visa application processes and exclusive benefits to help you get settled in Thailand. Whether you are interested in establishing a business or enjoying other privileges like access to airport lounges, the Thai Elite Visa program can help you get there. So if you are ready to experience all that Thailand has to offer, consider applying for the Thai Elite Visa today! Make sure to Subscribe to our newsletter for the best information about living in Thailand or reach out to us with any questions.
