“Golden visas” are typically visas that offer you long-term residence through investment in a nation’s economy. Thailand does not offer an official golden visa, but the Thailand Elite Visa acts as a superior alternative. The visa is included with the purchase of one of four Thailand Privilege Visa membership packages.
Each package boasts a multiple-entry visa valid for periods ranging from 5 to 20 years and provides you with a host of VIP travel, lifestyle, and immigration benefits. In contrast to most golden visas around the world, the Thailand Elite Visa does not have strict income or asset requirements. It only requires you to pay a one-time membership fee upfront to access the many benefits it provides.
Simplified Long-Term Residency
The Thailand Elite Visa is more than a standard tourist visa. As a privileged tourist visa, it provides exclusive immigration and visa perks, as well as a quick and simple application and approval process. And as a multiple-entry visa, it eliminates the need for frequent renewals and border runs – you can leave and re-enter Thailand without obtaining a re-entry permit.
Airport and Immigration Privileges
As an international traveler, you will appreciate the seamless arrival and departure experience facilitated by Thailand Privilege. Your membership provides you with access to exclusive fast-track immigration services, airport lounges, and airport transfer services.
After arrival, Elite Personal Liaisons (EPLs) act as immigration concierges throughout your stay. These dedicated representatives can assist with immigration reports and other administrative matters, though you will need to spend your allocated Privilege Points (see below) to utilize their services.
Residential Benefits
As a Thailand Elite Visa holder, you can open Thai bank and credit card accounts, apply for a driver’s license, invest in Thai businesses, and purchase certain kinds of property (such as condos). EPLs can help members navigate these processes, and the Thailand Privilege Member Contact Center is available for 24-hour English-language support.
Lifestyle Benefits
The Elite Visa provides plenty of lifestyle perks to help you make the most of your time in Thailand. They include but are not limited to:
- A complimentary annual health check-up
- A one-night stay with Anantara Vacation Club
- A wealth advisory session
- Personal shopping assistance
- Personal accident insurance
- Discounts at leading shops and restaurants
The Privilege Points System
The Thailand Privilege Points system is designed to provide you with a more personalized and enjoyable Thailand experience. As part of your membership, you will receive a set of points each year that you can redeem for a wide range of luxury goods, services, and experiences. These include 5-star accommodations, spa treatments, golf club passes, financial management services, and many other exclusive perks.
Thailand Privilege Memberships
The four membership packages offered by Thailand Privilege include a long-term Thai Elite Visa, a range of standard complimentary benefits, and a set of allocated Thailand Privilege Points. Each tier offers progressively higher amounts of perks, as well as a longer stay in Thailand.
The membership offerings are as follows:
- Thailand Privilege Gold Membership: 900,000 THB, 5-year stay, 20 privilege points
- Thailand Privilege Platinum Membership: 1.5 million THB, 10-year stay, 35 privilege points, family members can be added for 1 million THB per person
- Thailand Privilege Diamond Membership: 2.5 million THB, 15-year stay, 55 privilege points, family members can be added for 1.5 million THB per person
- Thailand Privilege Reserve Membership (invitation-only): 5 million THB, 20-year stay, 120 privilege points, family members can be added for 2 million THB per person
The Elite Visa does not set age, employment, or income restrictions, or charge annual fees. Membership fees are paid in a lump sum upon visa approval.
How to Apply
To apply, you will need to provide a completed Thailand Privilege application form for your chosen membership category. You will also need to provide a copy of your passport, recent passport-style photos, and proof of relationship for any family members applying with you. Applications require a 50,000 THB fee to initiate the mandatory background check, which is included in the price of the membership.
Once your application is submitted, Thai authorities will conduct the background check and review your documents. After about four weeks, you will typically receive a decision on your visa. However, processing times can extend up to several months for certain nationalities.
Application Support from a GSSA
General Sales and Services Agents (GSSAs) are government-authorized consultants who can guide you through the Thailand Elite Visa application process. A GSSA works directly with you providing personalized support to ensure your application is swift and successful.
Siam Legal is a full-service law firm and GSSA, and our Elite Visa application services are subsidized by the Thai government. This means that we can help you navigate the legal procedure and prepare documents for no extra charge; you only need to pay for your Thailand Elite Membership. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Siam Legal for a consultation.
