visa - Thai Immigration

Thai Immigration

Multiple Entry Tourist Visa

The Multiple Entry Tourist Visa (METV) is a specialized visa issued by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs that allows qualified foreign nationals to enter and exit Thailand multiple times over a period of six months for tourism purposes. Though the visa appears straightforward, it is governed by a complex interaction between Thai immigration policy, regional diplomacy, and practical enforcement.

This article examines the METV in detail—from its legal foundation and eligibility criteria to its real-world use cases and limitations.

I. Legal and Policy Framework

The METV is governed by:

Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979)
Ministerial Regulations on Visa Issuance
Notifications by the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate General in each applicant’s home country

Unlike visa exemptions and visa-on-arrival schemes that are unilaterally or bilaterally arranged, the METV is a consular-issued visa, and decisions are made at the discretion of the issuing embassy or consulate.

II. Purpose and Scope

The METV is designed for tourism-related travel, and holders are strictly prohibited from:

Engaging in employment or business activities
Enrolling in long-term academic programs
Conducting media or research work without appropriate permits

The visa is intended for travelers who need to enter and exit Thailand frequently over a medium period, such as:

Tourists combining Thailand with other ASEAN destinations
Digital nomads (unofficially, due to flexibility of stay)
Individuals visiting Thai-based partners or family on a recurring basis

III. Visa Validity and Duration of Stay

A. Validity Period

The METV is valid for 6 months from the date of issuance.
The traveler may enter Thailand as many times as they wish during that period, subject to immigration discretion.

B. Duration per Entry

Each entry permits a stay of up to 60 days.
The stay may be extended once for an additional 30 days at an immigration office within Thailand (THB 1,900 fee).
Once the extension expires, the holder must exit and re-enter for a new 60-day period to begin.

C. Overstay Penalties

Overstaying a METV entry period results in:

THB 500 per day fine (up to THB 20,000)
Potential blacklisting for overstays of more than 90 days
Risk of denied re-entry at discretion of immigration officers

IV. Eligibility and Application Process

The METV application must be submitted at a Thai embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country of nationality or residence.

A. Key Eligibility Requirements

Passport valid for at least 6 months beyond intended final exit
Proof of employment or school enrollment
Bank statement showing sufficient funds (typically THB 200,000 or equivalent)
Letter of employment or confirmation of business registration
Accommodation reservations or invitation letter from a host in Thailand
Proof of travel history or intent (e.g., flight bookings, itinerary)

Requirements may vary slightly between embassies, particularly regarding:

The required amount of financial proof
The form and language of support letters
Acceptable insurance documentation

B. Fees and Processing Time

Visa fee: Approximately THB 5,000 (varies by currency and country)
Processing time: 3–10 business days
Must be applied for in person or via designated visa agents; e-visa options are limited for METV at present

V. Entry and Exit Logistics

A. Border Re-Entry Validity

The METV can be used at international airports and land border crossings. However, repeated entries via land are subject to scrutiny.

Entry via international airports is generally unproblematic.
Entry via land borders is permitted but may be limited to two entries per calendar year for visa holders, per immigration policy (subject to change).
Immigration officers have discretion to deny re-entry if they suspect abuse of tourist status.

B. “Border Runs”

Although legal under an METV, repeated border runs can draw suspicion. Thai Immigration takes a stricter approach to frequent travelers who appear to live in Thailand long-term without a proper visa.

Signs of potential overuse:

High number of consecutive entries with no clear departure itinerary
Use of METV as a substitute for a business or marriage visa
Possession of work tools or business cards at the time of entry

VI. METV vs. Other Thai Tourist Visas

Feature	METV	Single Entry Tourist Visa (SETV)	Visa Exemption
Validity	6 months	3 months	N/A
Entries	Multiple	One	One
Stay per entry	60 days (extendable)	60 days (extendable)	30–45 days
Application location	Embassy in home country	Embassy in any country	None
Cost	~THB 5,000	~THB 2,000	Free

VII. Practical Use Cases

A. Long-Term Travelers

Individuals wishing to explore Southeast Asia and make Thailand a base for a few months often benefit from the METV. However, they must ensure:

They exit and re-enter properly within permitted intervals
They avoid conducting business or remote work that could be classified as employment under Thai law

B. Family Visits

Spouses or family members of Thai citizens or residents (who do not yet qualify for a marriage or dependent visa) may use the METV to facilitate frequent stays.

C. Property Owners

Foreigners owning condominiums in Thailand often use METVs for extended stays without committing to a retirement or investment visa, though this visa does not confer residence status.

VIII. Risks and Limitations

Not renewable inside Thailand: Once the 6-month validity expires, applicants must return to their home country to reapply.
No employment rights: Engaging in any work-related activity, even online freelancing, may violate immigration regulations.
Immigration discretion: Each re-entry is subject to assessment; prior entries do not guarantee future access.
No pathway to permanent residency: Time spent in Thailand under an METV does not count toward permanent residency eligibility.

IX. Compliance and Exit Strategy

To maintain good standing with Thai immigration:

Maintain a clear travel history and record of exits
Avoid overstays or using the visa in place of a business/work permit
Consider transitioning to a more appropriate long-term visa if visiting frequently for family or work purposes

When the METV expires, applicants must:

Leave Thailand before the last entry expires
Reapply from abroad if intending to return under the same visa category

Conclusion

The Thailand Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa offers a unique solution for qualified travelers seeking flexibility, medium-term stay options, and regional travel throughout ASEAN. However, it requires careful compliance with Thai immigration rules and is not intended for individuals living semi-permanently in Thailand without proper authorization. Used responsibly, it is a valuable tool for recurring visits—but not a substitute for work, retirement, or residency visas.

Thai Immigration

Thailand Privilege Visa GOLD Membership

The Thailand Privilege Visa Gold Membership is the entry-level tier in Thailand’s newly restructured long-term residency program for foreign nationals seeking a legal and convenient basis for extended stay. Launched in October 2023 by Thailand Privilege Card Co., Ltd. (TPC)—a state enterprise under the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)—this membership provides a 5-year renewable visa, along with access to lifestyle, immigration, and administrative benefits.

Unlike traditional Thai visas, the Gold Membership does not require proof of employment, retirement income, or family sponsorship. However, it does not grant the right to work, and it does not lead to permanent residency or citizenship. The program is contractual, privilege-based, and subject to cancellation in cases of non-compliance or criminal behavior.

This article provides a comprehensive legal and procedural overview of the Thailand Privilege Visa – Gold Membership, including visa mechanics, immigration compliance obligations, use cases, and limitations under Thai law.

1. Legal and Administrative Authority

1.1 Governing Body

Thailand Privilege Card Co., Ltd. (TPC): Fully owned by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)
Administers the program under Cabinet resolutions and ministerial policies
Overseen by relevant agencies under the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979)

1.2 Visa Type

A non-immigrant “PE” (Privilege Entry) visa
Issued under the Immigration Bureau’s authority
Valid for 5 years, with 1-year renewable entries

The PE visa is distinct from other non-immigrant categories (e.g., “O,” “B,” or “O-A”) and is issued solely through TPC membership.

2. Core Features of the Gold Membership

Feature	Detail
Visa Validity	5 years (multiple entry)
Cost	THB 900,000 (non-refundable, lump sum)
Renewability	Visa re-stamped annually for the duration
Membership Points	20 privilege points/year
Family Inclusion	❌ Not allowed under Gold tier
Government Liaison Services	✅ Limited access to TPC concierge

3. Immigration Rights and Limitations

✅ Rights and Privileges

Legally reside in Thailand for up to 5 years
Multiple re-entry allowed without re-entry permit
Assistance with 90-day reporting and visa renewals
Fast-track immigration lanes at major airports
Use of TPC liaison officers for some government-related services

❌ Limitations

No work rights — employment without work permit is illegal under Thai law
No path to Thai Permanent Residency or Citizenship
No inclusion of spouse or children under Gold tier
Visa is subject to revocation in cases of:
- Criminal activity
- Immigration law violation
- Misrepresentation during application

4. Immigration Compliance Obligations

4.1 90-Day Reporting

Still required under Section 37(5) of the Immigration Act
Can be fulfilled:
- In person at immigration
- By mail
- Via TPC concierge

4.2 Address Change Notification

Any change of residence must be reported using Form TM.28
If hosting foreign guests, landlords must file Form TM.30

4.3 Tax Residency and Financial Disclosure

If a member stays 180+ days/year, they become a Thai tax resident
Obliged to:
- File PND 90 or 91 personal income tax returns
- Declare Thai-sourced income
- Declare foreign income if remitted (under 2024 rule)

5. 2024 Foreign Income Remittance Rule (Critical for Long-Term Gold Members)

Thailand enacted a major tax change effective 1 January 2024, affecting all foreign residents:

Foreign income remitted into Thailand by tax residents is now taxable in the year it is remitted, regardless of when it was earned.
Applies to:
- Offshore salary or consulting income
- Dividends, capital gains
- Pension income, if sent to Thailand

Gold members who remit foreign funds into Thailand should consult tax professionals for reporting obligations and potential liability.

6. Application and Approval Process

Step 1: Submit Application

Via authorized agents or directly to Thailand Privilege
Required:
- Copy of passport
- Completed application form
- Digital photo
- Personal background information

Step 2: Background Check

Conducted by the Immigration Bureau and other security agencies
Criminal records, blacklist status, visa overstay history evaluated

Step 3: Membership Payment

Upon approval, applicant pays the THB 900,000 fee
Membership is activated upon payment receipt

Step 4: Visa Issuance

Visa can be affixed:
- At a Thai Embassy/Consulate abroad
- At Bangkok Immigration Bureau (for in-country applicants)
TPC issues a membership card, which functions as a form of identification

7. Use Cases for Gold Membership

✅ Appropriate For:

Remote workers or digital nomads (who earn offshore and don’t engage in Thai employment)
Frequent travelers needing long-term multiple-entry residency
Pre-retirees who do not yet qualify for O-A or O-X visas
Foreign homeowners wishing to reside in their Thai property
Investors managing offshore assets while residing in Thailand

⚠️ Not Suitable For:

Those seeking permanent immigration status
Foreigners planning to work, open a business, or manage employees (without proper work authorization)
Applicants with dependents, unless applying under higher-tier memberships

8. Visa Cancellation and Legal Consequences

Gold membership and its associated visa may be terminated immediately for:

Violation of Thai laws
Employment without a work permit (Alien Working Act B.E. 2551)
National security issues
Submission of fraudulent documents
Breach of TPC membership contract

Consequences:

Visa cancellation and deportation
Immigration blacklist
No refund of membership fee

9. Comparison with Other Thailand Long-Stay Options

Criteria	Gold Privilege Visa	Retirement (O-A/O-X)	LTR Visa
Duration	5 years	1–10 years (renewable)	Up to 10 years
Work authorization	❌ No	❌ No	✅ Yes (for certain types)
Family inclusion	❌ Not allowed	✅ (spouse/children)	✅
Financial requirement	THB 900,000 (fee)	THB 800,000 bank deposit	THB 3–5 million investment
Path to PR or citizenship	❌ No	❌ No	⚠️ Indirect (with PR application)

10. Conclusion

The Thailand Privilege Visa – Gold Membership provides a legally secure, multi-year solution for foreigners seeking long-term residence in Thailand without employment or immigration complexity. It offers unrestricted re-entry, visa convenience, and lifestyle privileges backed by a government enterprise.

However, Gold members must carefully manage their immigration compliance, particularly in relation to tax residency, foreign income remittance, and prohibited employment. It is not a visa for working professionals, nor does it provide a path to permanent legal status in Thailand.

As such, it is best suited for those who seek residential comfort, mobility, and legal simplicity—with the resources to sustain it independently.

Thai Immigration

90-Day Visa Thailand

90-Day Visa Thailand options are popular among travelers, expatriates, and business professionals who wish to stay in the country for an extended period without the need for frequent visa runs. These visas provide a balance between short-term stays and long-term residency, offering flexibility for various purposes such as tourism, business, retirement, or family visits. This article provides an in-depth exploration of Thailand’s 90-day visa options, covering the types of visas available, application processes, compliance requirements, and key considerations for applicants.

Types of 90-Day Visas in Thailand

Thailand offers several types of visas that allow for a 90-day stay, each tailored to specific purposes and eligibility criteria.

1. Single-Entry Tourist Visa (TR)

Purpose: For tourists who wish to stay in Thailand for up to 90 days.
Validity: The visa is valid for a single entry and allows a stay of up to 60 days, which can be extended for an additional 30 days at a local immigration office.
Eligibility: Applicants must provide proof of travel plans, accommodation, and financial means.

2. Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa (METV)

Purpose: For frequent travelers who wish to enter Thailand multiple times within a six-month period.
Validity: Each entry allows a stay of up to 60 days, which can be extended for an additional 30 days.
Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate a consistent travel history and provide proof of financial stability.

3. Non-Immigrant Visa (Category B)

Purpose: For business professionals who wish to conduct business activities in Thailand.
Validity: Allows a stay of up to 90 days, with the possibility of extension.
Eligibility: Applicants must provide a letter from a Thai company or employer, detailing the purpose of the visit and financial support.

4. Non-Immigrant Visa (Category O)

Purpose: For individuals visiting family, retiring, or seeking medical treatment in Thailand.
Validity: Allows a stay of up to 90 days, with the possibility of extension.
Eligibility: Applicants must provide proof of relationship (for family visits), retirement funds, or medical documentation.

5. Non-Immigrant Visa (Category ED)

Purpose: For students enrolled in educational institutions in Thailand.
Validity: Allows a stay of up to 90 days, with the possibility of extension.
Eligibility: Applicants must provide an acceptance letter from a recognized educational institution.

Application Process for a 90-Day Visa

The application process for a 90-day visa in Thailand involves several steps, each requiring careful attention to detail and documentation.

1. Determine the Appropriate Visa Type

Identify the visa category that best suits the purpose of your visit (e.g., tourism, business, retirement, education).

2. Gather Required Documents

General Requirements:
- Completed visa application form.
- Passport with at least six months of validity and blank pages.
- Recent passport-sized photographs.
- Proof of travel plans (e.g., flight itinerary, hotel bookings).
- Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statements, sponsorship letters).
Specific Requirements:
- Tourist Visa (TR/METV): Travel insurance, proof of accommodation.
- Non-Immigrant Visa (Category B): Letter from a Thai company, business registration documents.
- Non-Immigrant Visa (Category O): Proof of relationship, retirement funds, or medical documents.
- Non-Immigrant Visa (Category ED): Acceptance letter from an educational institution.

3. Submit the Application

Submit the application and supporting documents to the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country or country of residence.
Pay the visa application fee, which varies depending on the visa type and nationality.

4. Attend an Interview (if required)

Some visa categories may require an interview to assess the applicant’s eligibility and intentions.

5. Receive the Visa

Once approved, the visa will be affixed to your passport, allowing you to enter Thailand within the specified validity period.

Compliance and Extension of Stay

Once in Thailand, visa holders must comply with specific regulations and may have the option to extend their stay.

1. 90-Day Reporting

Requirement: Foreigners staying in Thailand for more than 90 consecutive days must report their address to the Immigration Bureau.
Process: Submit a completed TM.47 form, along with proof of address (e.g., rental agreement, utility bill) and passport copies.
Penalties: Failure to comply with 90-day reporting requirements can result in fines or other penalties.

2. Visa Extensions

Eligibility: Certain visa types (e.g., Tourist Visa, Non-Immigrant Visa) can be extended for an additional 30 days.
Process: Submit an application for extension at a local immigration office, along with supporting documents and the required fee.
Limitations: Extensions are subject to approval and may not be granted for all visa types or circumstances.

3. Re-Entry Permits

Purpose: Allows visa holders to leave and re-enter Thailand without invalidating their visa.
Process: Apply for a re-entry permit at the Immigration Bureau before departing Thailand.
Types: Single re-entry permit (valid for one re-entry) or multiple re-entry permit (valid for multiple re-entries).

Key Considerations for Applicants

Visa Validity and Entry Stamps:
- Ensure that your visa is valid for the intended duration of stay and that you receive the correct entry stamp upon arrival.
Financial Requirements:
- Be prepared to demonstrate sufficient financial means to support your stay in Thailand.
Health Insurance:
- Some visa categories (e.g., Non-Immigrant Visa O-A for retirement) require proof of health insurance coverage.
Legal Advice:
- Seek professional advice to ensure that you meet all eligibility criteria and comply with Thai immigration laws.

Challenges and Common Issues

Documentation Errors:
- Incomplete or incorrect documentation can lead to delays or rejection of the visa application.
Overstaying:
- Overstaying your visa can result in fines, detention, or deportation.
Changing Visa Types:
- Switching from one visa type to another (e.g., from a Tourist Visa to a Non-Immigrant Visa) can be complex and may require leaving the country.
Language Barriers:
- Navigating the visa application and compliance process can be challenging for non-Thai speakers.

Recent Developments and Trends

Digitalization:
- The Thai Immigration Bureau has introduced online platforms for 90-day reporting and visa extensions, improving efficiency and accessibility.
COVID-19 Impact:
- The COVID-19 pandemic has led to temporary changes in visa policies, such as automatic extensions and reduced fees for certain visa categories.
Tourism Recovery:
- Thailand is implementing measures to revive its tourism industry, including streamlined visa processes and promotional campaigns.

Conclusion

Thailand’s 90-day visa options provide a flexible and convenient solution for travelers, expatriates, and business professionals seeking to stay in the country for an extended period. By understanding the different visa types, application processes, and compliance requirements, applicants can navigate the complexities of Thai immigration laws and ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Whether for tourism, business, retirement, or education, a 90-day visa offers the opportunity to explore and enjoy all that Thailand has to offer. With careful planning, thorough preparation, and professional guidance, applicants can maximize the benefits of their stay and comply with all legal obligations.

Thai Immigration

Thailand Long-term Resident Visa

Thailand Long-term Resident Visa, introduced through a 2022 Cabinet Resolution, marks a strategic shift in the country’s immigration policy—from temporary stay facilitation to policy-based migration management. It is not simply a long-stay visa; it is a legal residency instrument aligned with national objectives such as attracting capital, technology, and highly skilled professionals.

This article provides an in-depth analysis of the LTR Visa’s legal architecture, categories, privileges, and compliance framework—excluding promotional generalities and focusing solely on statutory structure, fiscal policy, administrative coordination, and practical implications.

II. Legal and Institutional Framework

A. Governing Authority

Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979): The statutory basis for foreign presence in Thailand.
Cabinet Resolution (2022): Establishes the LTR Visa category and mandates cross-agency cooperation.
Board of Investment (BOI): Leads operational administration, eligibility vetting, and work permit issuance.
Revenue Department: Implements tax exemptions and flat-rate taxation for eligible visa holders.
One Stop Service Center (OSSVC): Central point for application processing, renewals, and dependent services.

B. Distinguishing Nature

Unlike Non-Immigrant visas or the Elite program, the LTR Visa is built to function like a quasi-residency regime. Its benefits are based not on discretionary hospitality or lifestyle spending, but on objective contributions to national growth sectors.

III. Categories of Eligibility and Purpose Alignment

The LTR Visa limits access to four well-defined categories, each associated with a macroeconomic or strategic objective.

1. Wealthy Global Citizens

Asset Threshold: USD 1 million.
Annual Income: USD 80,000 (past two years).
Thai Investment: Minimum USD 500,000 in real estate, equity, or bonds.

Purpose: Inject long-term foreign capital into local markets with minimal short-term volatility.

2. Wealthy Pensioners

Age: 50+.
Annual Income: USD 80,000, or USD 40,000 with USD 250,000 invested in Thai assets.

Purpose: Increase stable domestic consumption by retirees without burdening the public healthcare or welfare systems.

3. Work-from-Thailand Professionals

Employer Revenue: ≥ USD 150 million globally.
Income: USD 80,000/year.
Experience: At least 5 years.
Work Structure: Remote work only—no Thai employer or local economic impact.

Purpose: Accommodate the global shift to digital labor without creating competition in Thailand’s domestic job market.

4. Highly Skilled Professionals

Income: USD 80,000/year, or USD 40,000 with postgraduate degree.
Sector: Must align with BOI’s target sectors—robotics, AI, aerospace, biotech, etc.
Employer: BOI-certified Thai or foreign entity.

Purpose: Address local skill shortages in high-tech, R&D, and advanced service sectors.

IV. Visa Validity and Structure

Feature	LTR Visa Provision
Total Duration	10 years (issued in two renewable 5-year terms)
Re-entry Permits	Not required
Work Permit	Digital and quota-free (for Categories 3 and 4 only)
Address Reporting	Required once annually (replaces 90-day rule)
Health Insurance	Mandatory coverage of USD 50,000 or enrollment in Thai Social Security

This structure offers legal predictability that surpasses both retirement and employment visa frameworks in Thailand.

V. Employment Authorization

LTR holders in Categories 3 and 4 are eligible for a BOI-issued Digital Work Permit.

Legal Highlights:

Quota Exemption: Exempts employer from 4 Thai workers per 1 foreigner rule.
Issuing Authority: BOI—not the Ministry of Labour.
Duration: 5 years (renewable with the visa).
Sectors Restricted To: Only BOI-approved industries.

This represents a legally distinct route into Thai labor markets—streamlined, digitally managed, and insulated from conventional work permit bureaucracy.

VI. Taxation Regime

Thailand’s territorial tax system—codified in the Revenue Code—is optimized for LTR holders through additional statutory privileges.

1. 17% Flat Personal Income Tax

Applies To: Category 4 (Highly Skilled Professionals).
Condition: Must be BOI-employed in a certified sector.
Scope: Applies to Thai-sourced income only.

This rate undercuts Thailand’s standard progressive scale (5%–35%) and positions the LTR as one of Southeast Asia’s most tax-efficient legal employment pathways.

2. Foreign Income Exemption

Under Section 41 of the Revenue Code:

Foreign-sourced income is not subject to Thai tax if it is not remitted to Thailand in the same year it is earned.
Applies broadly to:
- Remote workers.
- Pensioners.
- Offshore portfolio holders.

This allows complete tax neutrality for offshore income held abroad—a benefit that is fully legal and transparent.

3. Filing and Residency

Tax Residency: Triggered at ≥183 days of presence in a calendar year.
Obligation: All tax residents must file annual returns, even if all income is offshore and exempt.

VII. Investment and Property Rights

LTR holders have limited, but substantial, access to economic rights under Thai law.

Permitted:

Condominium Ownership: Freehold ownership within the 49% foreign quota of each development.
Leaseholds: Up to 30 years for residential land and buildings.
Investments: Thai equities, BOI-endorsed projects, and government bonds.

Not Permitted:

Land Ownership: Prohibited under the Land Code B.E. 2497; LTR status does not override this restriction.

VIII. Family and Dependent Rights

LTR holders may include up to four dependents, such as:

Legally married spouse
Children under 20 years

Privileges:

Same 10-year visa duration.
Unified processing at OSSVC.
Children may attend Thai or international schools.
Spouses may apply for digital work permits if they qualify independently.

This makes LTR the only program in Thailand to combine long-term residency, employment rights, and family inclusion without requiring additional visa classes.

IX. Travel and Immigration Efficiency

Fast-track lanes at major international airports.
Re-entry permits waived.
Visa extensions, work permit renewals, and reporting centralized via OSSVC.
BOI assistance with regulatory issues, documentation, and tax guidance.

X. Compliance and Revocation Framework

Ongoing Requirements:

Maintenance of qualifying income, employment, or investment.
Valid insurance or social security coverage.
Annual address reporting.
Tax filing if resident.

Grounds for Revocation:

Criminal conviction.
Regulatory violations (e.g., overstays, false documentation).
Termination of employment or divestment below eligibility thresholds.
National security risks.

Revocation is procedural but may be appealed through BOI channels or administrative court review under Thai law.

XI. Practical Scenarios

1. American Data Analyst (Remote Worker)

Income: USD 120,000 from U.S. employer.
Category: Work-from-Thailand Professional.
Outcome: No Thai income tax if income is kept offshore; 10-year legal stay.

2. German Retiree

Pension: EUR 65,000/year.
Investment: USD 300,000 in Thai condo.
Category: Wealthy Pensioner.
Outcome: Avoids O-A Visa restrictions (annual renewals, deposit rules).

3. Japanese Robotics Engineer

Employer: BOI-endorsed AI lab.
Income: THB 4.5 million/year.
Category: Highly Skilled Professional.
Outcome: Pays 17% PIT; spouse and child included in same visa package.

XII. Conclusion

The LTR Visa Thailand is a rule-based, policy-linked visa framework with embedded legal rights and obligations. It is designed not for mass residency, but for qualified individuals whose presence contributes to Thailand’s development vision. It combines the features of residency, employment authorization, and fiscal optimization into a single, integrated status.

For those who meet the entry thresholds, it provides certainty, privileges, and long-term legal residence—backed not by discretionary invitation, but by codified entitlement.

Thai Immigration

Spouse Visa in Thailand

The foreign national must be married to a Thai national or a foreign national with authorized residency in Thailand in order to be granted a spouse visa in Thailand. Officially, the visa is referred to as a non-immigrant “O” visa.

The general procedures are as follows:

1. In your home country, submit an application for a non-immigrant “O” visa at the Thai embassy or consulate. You must present the required paperwork, which includes a copy of your marriage license and evidence of your ability to support yourself.

2. You must visit a local immigration office once you have arrived in Thailand to request a 90-day extension of your non-immigrant “O” visa.

3. You must submit an application for a one-year extension of your visa at a nearby immigration office before the 90-day extension expires. You will be required to present documentation showing your ability to sustain yourself financially.

4. As long as you continue to meet the requirements, you can renew your visa for another year after the first one.

Keep in mind that the procedure and standards may change based on your unique circumstances and the regional immigration office. To guarantee a successful and efficient application procedure, it is advised to speak with a licensed immigration lawyer or agent.