There’s no doubt that Thailand is a dream destination for a lot of people worldwide. While getting a tourist visa is a very simple process (many are even visa exempt), getting a visa for staying long-term in Thailand is a whole different ball game.
While some people are okay with doing visa runs and jumping borders several times a year, a long-term visa provides much more stability. By doing visa runs you are always at risk of getting rejected the next time you arrive to the country. In this article, we take a look at the most common long-term visas to Thailand, including the retirement visa, marriage visa, and education visa.
Different types of long-term visas to Thailand
- Retirement Visa (Non-Immigrant O-A Visa): This visa is designed for foreigners over 50 years old. The retirement visa to Thailand allows for a stay of up to one year at a time and it can be renewed annually. There are however quite strict limits regarding funds and you must earn a pension of at least 65,000 baht or deposit 800,000 baht at a Thai bank account. Read more about the intricacies of this visa in our guide to Thai retirement visas.
- Marriage Visa (Non-Immigrant O Visa): To get a marriage visa you obviously need to be married. This visa is not for everyone and we don’t recommend getting married just for the sake of being able to get a long-term visa to Thailand. However, if you are already married the Thailand marriage visa has more lenient limits regarding income and funds you need to deposit to a Thai bank account.
- Business Visa (Non-Immigrant B Visa): If you are doing in business in Thailand the business visa is the obvious choice. The Thai business visa is intended for individuals who come to work in Thailand, either for short term or long term. This visa is initially valid for 90 days but can be extended up to one year. Keep in mind that the business visa does not automatically give you permission to work in Thailand. For that you need a work permit.
- Education Visa (Non-Immigrant ED Visa): For those who plan to study in Thailand. This visa is initially valid for 90 days but can be extended to a 12-month visa for the duration of the study program. The Thai education visa can be used for all sorts of studying no matter if you enrol at a university, study Muay Thai or study Thai language. You cannot work on a education visa, for that you need a work permit.
- Volunteer Visa (Non-Immigrant O Visa for Volunteers): Suitable for those participating in volunteer work. This visa requires proof of engagement with a registered charity or NGO in Thailand. Read more in our guide to Thai volunteer visa.
- Elite Visa: A long-term visa option offering various privileges and is valid for 5, 10, or 20 years, depending on the program chosen. This visa is relatively hassle-free but it costs between 500,000 baht and 2 million. The Thai elite visa is a great option if you have the money.
Choosing the Right Visa
Each type of long-term visa to Thailand comes with its own set of requirements and conditions. It is important to carefully consider which one aligns best with your reasons for staying in the Kingdom. If you click on the links in this article you can read more about the details of that visa in particular.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is health insurance mandatory for all long-term visas in Thailand?
Health insurance requirements vary by visa type. It is mandatory for some visas, like the Retirement Visa, so it’s important to check the specific requirements for the visa you are applying for.
Can I work in Thailand with an Education Visa?
No, holders of an Education Visa are not permitted to work in Thailand. To work legally, you would need a Business Visa and a valid work permit.
What is the validity period of a Thai Marriage Visa?
The Thai Marriage Visa is typically valid for one year and can be renewed annually as long as you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.
What are the financial requirements for a Retirement Visa in Thailand?
For a Retirement Visa, you must either have a monthly pension of at least 65,000 baht or a bank deposit of 800,000 baht in a Thai bank account.
Can I own property in Thailand with a long-term visa?
While having a long-term visa does not entitle you to own land in Thailand, you may own a condominium as long as foreign ownership in the complex does not exceed 49%.
How old do I need to be for the Thai retirement visa?
The Retirement Visa (Non-Immigrant O-A Visa) is specifically designed for foreigners over 50 years old.
Can I bring my family with me on a Business Visa?
Yes, you can apply for dependent visas for your family members. However, each family member will need to meet the visa requirements and apply separately.