If you are a high-net-worth individual (HNWI) seeking an extended and luxurious residence in Thailand, there are several visa programs that cater to your specific needs. This article provides pertinent information on the most appropriate programs, helping you navigate the multitude of options and empowering you to make informed decisions about your future in Thailand.
Thailand Elite Visa
The compelling Thailand Elite Visa is available through a Thailand Privilege Membership. The prestigious program offers a unique combination of long-term residency options, exclusive benefits, simplified application processes, and unparalleled service that are ideal if you enjoy the finer things in life.
Thailand Privilege Memberships
The Thailand Privilege program offers four membership tiers, each including a long-term Thai Elite Visa, a range of complimentary benefits, and a set of allocated Thailand Privilege Points to be redeemed on exclusive perks and experiences. Privilege Points reward offerings are largely similar from tier to tier, but members of higher tiers receive more points annually, allowing for even more benefits.
The membership tiers are as follows:
- Thailand Privilege Gold Membership: This tier costs 900,000 THB and includes a 5-year multi-entry visa with 20 privilege points per year.
- Thailand Privilege Platinum Membership: This membership costs 1.5 million THB, offers a 10-year stay, and 35 privilege points. Family members can be added for 1 million THB per person.
- Thailand Privilege Diamond Membership: Membership costs 2.5 million THB for a 15-year stay. It includes 55 privilege points and family members can be added for 1.5 million THB per person.
- Thailand Privilege Reserve Membership: This exclusive, invitation-only membership costs 5 million THB and offers a 20-year stay. It provides 120 privilege points and family members can be added for 2 million THB per person.
Thailand Elite Visa Benefits
The Thailand Elite Visa is accompanied by many residential, travel, and lifestyle benefits to help you make the most of your time in the Kingdom. For instance, to make life easier when entering or leaving, the visa includes airport fast-track immigration, luggage assistance, and airport lounge access. While staying in Thailand, Elite Personal Liaisons can assist with residency matters such as 90-day reports and opening a bank account. The program also includes lavish leisure and lifestyle perks such as 5-star hotel stays, spa experiences, golf club passes, and cultural excursions, redeemable for privilege points.
Thailand Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa
The Thailand Long-Term Resident Visa (LTR Visa) is a 10-year visa offered to “high-potential foreigners.” There are four categories of LTR Visa, with the most pertinent for HNWIs being the Wealthy Global Citizens category.
Wealthy Global Citizens Category Requirements
If you want to apply for the LTR Visa as a Wealthy Global Citizen, you must hold at least 1 million USD in assets and demonstrate a consistent income exceeding 80,000 USD over the last two years. Furthermore, you must invest at least 500,000 USD in Thai real estate, government bonds, or direct investment. These criteria aim to ensure that you are financially suitable for the visa and contribute adequately to the Thai economy.
LTR Visa Benefits
Unlike the Thailand Elite Visa, the LTR Visa Thailand allows you to apply for a work permit to be employed in Thailand. The requirement for employers to hire four Thai nationals per foreigner is also waived. You can also enjoy residential rights such as holding a Thai bank account or applying for a driver’s license. Moreover, on the LTR visa, you pay reduced personal income tax and enjoy airport and immigration fast-track privileges.
Thailand Business Visa (Non-Immigrant Visa B)
The Thailand Business Visa, or Non-Immigrant Visa B, is intended for HNWIs who want to establish a business presence in Thailand. This visa allows the option to apply for a work permit to be physically employed in Thailand. It is valid for a maximum of one year (with the option to renew). This visa is ideal if you intend to spend a shorter time in Thailand and engage in business activities within the Kingdom.
Comparing Your Options
While the Thailand Elite Visa offers undeniable luxury and convenience, it’s not the only path to long-term Thai residency. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
| Category | Thailand Elite Visa | Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa: Wealthy Global Citizens | Business Visa (Non-Immigrant Visa B) |
| Focus | Affluent and luxurious lifestyle | Long-term residency and investment | Establish a business, perform business activities |
| Residency | 5 to 20 years | 10 years | Up to 1 year (extendable) |
| Investment/Cost | Membership fee: 900,000 to 5 million THB | 500,000 USD; minimum investment required | No investment required; Application fee: 5,000 THB |
| Immigration and Airport Privileges | Yes | Some | No |
| Permission to Work in Thailand | No | Eligible to apply for work permit | Eligible to apply for work permit |
Thailand offers several visa opportunities for HNWIs. The ideal program depends on your specific goals and lifestyle aspirations. With the right visa, you can unlock the full potential of Thailand, whether it’s building a thriving business, establishing a long-term home, or indulging in a life of unrivaled luxury.
Make an Informed Decision with Professional Thai Visa Consulting Services
Consider consulting the trusted Thai immigration advisors at Siam Legal. Our expertise in Thai immigration law enables us to effectively assess your unique needs and guide you toward the program that suits you best. Our experienced visa consultants can also directly assist you with any Thai visa application, maximizing the chances for approval and minimizing any delays.
