Thailand Elite

Obtaining a long-term visa for Thailand can be something of challenge if you are not of retirement age, a student studying in Thailand, married to a Thai national or working legally in the country. Of course, there are a lot of people who don’t fit into these categories but would still like to live in the country so therefore a Thailand visa is essential. A straightforward Visa on Arrival is not the answer and a Thailand multiple entry visa may not be practical so this is where the Thailand Elite visa comes into play.

The Thailand Elite Membership is a long-term visa option offering membership for 5, 10 or 20 years – significantly more than what is available to tourists or work permit holders. Much like other Thailand visas, the Thailand Elite visa needs to be extended annually although the process if far easier than with other visas where the rules are notoriously complicated and change frequently. The Thailand Elite option is fantastic way to get greater peace of mind for those looking at Thailand as a permanent or semi-permanent home rather than as a tourist destination.

There are a number of other benefits associated with the Thailand Elite visa and it is the perfect option for those wondering “do I need a visa for Thailand?”. For starters, the benefits start as soon as you land at one of the major international airports. You will be treated to a VIP greeting and your own Elite Personal Assistant who will guide you through the Fast Track Immigration formalities and passport control. You will of course have access to exclusive lounges and limousine transfer to and from the airport.

The Elite visa also gives members greater government assistance when comes to things that we all need in a new country. This includes access to business networking events, assistance with processing work permits and driving licences as well as any other necessary help with immigration. Discounts at King Power Duty Free, discounts for hotels and sporting activities as well as restaurants and shopping centres also comes as standard. These are options that no other Thailand visa offers.

Naturally, the first question that most people will ask is “how much is a 5-year visa for Thailand?” The prices for a 5 year Thailand Elite visa start at just THB 500,000 and then an additional THB300,000 for every additional family member. For those looking with a more long-term view, the 20-year option starts at just THB1 million. Of course, there are lots of additional options available that will enable you to tailor your Thailand visa to your own individual needs and circumstances.

One of the most common reasons that people set up a business in Thailand is to obtain a work permit and business visa in the country that will facilitate their long-term stay in Thailand. This is very fair if the business is genuine, however if it is setup purely to obtain a visa it can prove to be extremely expensive, both in terms of the initial setup costs and the ongoing monthly costs. If you are looking to be based in Thailand and don’t want the hassle of running a business, the Elite visa is by far the better option.  

The Thailand Elite visa isn’t the perfect option for everyone. Indeed, those whose annual visit is limited to less than 30 days (Visa on Arrival) or who obtain a two-month tourist visa from an embassy or consulate in their home country or outside of the Kingdom should continue to use these options. This form of Thailand visa, the Thailand Elite visa is aimed purely at those looking to be a long-term resident or visitor to the country. For these groups, this is an easy solution with a one-off fee that allows visa holders to forget about visa applications, extensions, visa runs or regular 90-day visits to Immigration.

So, you think that Thailand Elite Membership is the right solution for you? Firstly, you need to understand that you don’t need to live in Thailand to apply but regardless of if your residency status you will still need to follow the same procedure. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:

1. All candidates will be subject to a criminal record check in Thailand
2. The candidate needs to complete the application form their desired membership package
3. Make the appropriate payment for their level of membership
4. On completion of these duties they will receive confirmation of membership by Thailand Elite
5. If they have applied from outside Thailand they will need to get a ‘visa on arrival’ initially which can be converted into a Thailand Elite visa

This process can appear slightly daunting, especially if you have encountered problems with visa applications in the past. We therefore recommend that you use the services of a professional company who will be able to assist you with the application either prior to your arrival or whilst you are in Thailand. This can ease the stress and any potential problems can be ironed out before your application is submitted.

If you are intending to be a long-term visitor or resident in Thailand and want to make the most of everything that the Kingdom has to offer, you should consider applying for Thailand Elite membership. This option is the most stress-free process to obtain a visa and ensuring that your stay in the country is 100% legal. When it comes to obtaining a visa for Thailand, this is definitely the best route to choose and will give you complete peace of mind leaving you to relax and carry out your day-to-day business.

If you are interested in finding out more about Thailand multiple entry visas, an Investment Visa or Thailand Elite membership, we can offer you help and assistance at every stage of the process. Alpha Trade International Co., Ltd are an authorised service agent for the general sale of Thailand Elite Cards. Please contact us for more details.