Thailand is one of the most popular destinations in Asia, attracting millions of visitors each year for its tropical beaches, vibrant culture, and business opportunities. If you are planning to stay in Thailand, understanding the different types of Thailand visas is essential. Depending on your purpose – tourism, work, study, retirement, or long-term residence – different visa options are available, each with its own requirements and benefits.
In this complete guide, we explore all the main Thailand visa types that foreigners can apply for, including visa exemption, visa on arrival, tourist visas, non-immigrant visas, long-term visas, and special programs like the Thailand Privilege Visa.
Visa Exemption in Thailand
The Visa Exemption scheme allows citizens of more than 90 countries – including the United States, Canada, most EU member states, Australia, Japan, and ASEAN nations – to enter Thailand without the need to apply for a visa in advance. This program is designed mainly for short-term tourism or brief business visits, offering a convenient and cost-effective way to experience Thailand.
To qualify, travelers must hold a passport valid for at least six months, and may be required to show proof of onward or return travel, and demonstrate sufficient funds of at least 10,000 THB per person.
The visa exemption is free of charge and the initial length of stay is 30 days per entry, although certain nationalities benefit from bilateral agreements that allow up to 60 or even 90 days.
Travelers can extend their stay once by an additional 30 days at a local immigration office for a fee of 1,900 THB. However, the Visa Exemption cannot be renewed; once the initial period and possible extension have expired, the traveler must leave Thailand.
Summary:
- Objective: Tourism or short-term business visits
- Duration: 30–90 days depending on nationality
- Extension: +30 days possible
- Renewal: Not available
- Cost: Free (extension 1,900 THB)
Visa on Arrival (VOA)
The Visa on Arrival (VOA) is available to citizens of 31 eligible countries who wish to enter Thailand for tourism purposes without applying for a visa in advance. This option is ideal for travelers who cannot benefit from the visa exemption scheme and who decide on short notice to visit Thailand and need a quick and straightforward way to gain entry.
To qualify, visitors must hold a passport valid for at least six months, show proof of onward or return travel within the permitted stay, and demonstrate sufficient funds of at least 10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family. Applicants are also required to present proof of accommodation in Thailand, such as a hotel booking.
The Visa on Arrival allows a stay of up to 15 days. This period can be extended for another 7 days by visiting an immigration office. Once the 15-day period and the 7 days extension ends, travelers must leave the country.
The cost of the Visa on Arrival is 2,000 THB, payable at the airport or land border checkpoint upon entry. The extension costs 1,900 THB, payable at the immigration office where the extension is applied for.
Summary:
- Objective: Short-term tourism visits for citizens of eligible countries
- Duration: 15 days
- Extension: +7 days possible
- Renewal: Not available, exit required after 15 days (+7 if extended)
- Cost: 2,000 THB, payable upon arrival (extension 1,900 THB)
Tourist Visa (TR)
Single Entry
The Tourist Visa (TR Single Entry) is designed for travelers who wish to stay in Thailand longer than the visa exemption or Visa on Arrival allows, primarily for tourism purposes. This visa is ideal for visitors planning an extended holiday or travel itinerary within the country.
To qualify, applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months and demonstrate sufficient funds of at least 20,000 THB per person. Proof of onward or return travel and confirmed accommodation in Thailand are also required.
Applicants must submit a completed visa application form, one passport-sized photo, a bank statement or other proof of financial means, and travel itinerary details. The Tourist Visa (Single Entry) allows a stay of up to 60 days, which can be extended once by an additional 30 days at a local immigration office.
Renewal is not possible; once the initial period and possible extension expire, travelers must leave Thailand and apply again if they wish to return. The cost of this visa varies by embassy, but it is generally about 40 USD.
Summary:
- Objective: Tourism for extended stays
- Duration: 60 days
- Extension: Possible once for 30 days
- Renewal: Not available, must reapply after leaving Thailand
- Cost: About 40 USD
Multiple Entries
The Tourist Visa (TR Multiple Entries) is designed for travelers who plan to visit Thailand multiple times over an extended period, making it ideal for frequent tourists or those combining travel with short business trips. This visa allows multiple entries into the country during its validity, providing flexibility for those who wish to explore Thailand over several months.
To qualify, applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months, demonstrate sufficient funds of at least 20,000 THB per person, and provide proof of onward travel as well as confirmed accommodation in Thailand. Travel plans should clearly indicate the need for multiple entries.
Applicants need to submit a completed visa application form, a passport-sized photo, bank statements or other proof of financial means, and a travel itinerary. The TR Multiple Entry visa is typically valid for six months, allowing stays of up to 60 days per entry. Each stay can be extended once for an additional 30 days at a local immigration office.
Renewal is not possible and travelers are required to leave Thailand and reapply. The cost of this visa is generally about 200 USD, depending on the issuing embassy.
Summary:
- Objective: Tourism with multiple entries
- Duration: 60 days per entry within a six-month validity period
- Extension: Possible once for 30 days per entry
- Renewal: Not available, must reapply after leaving Thailand
- Cost: About 200 USD
Non-Immigrant Visa O (Retirement, Family, Volunteering, etc.)
The Non-Immigrant O Visa is intended for foreigners who wish to stay in Thailand for purposes such as retirement, having a Thai family (child, wife, husband, etc.), volunteering, accompanying foreign nationals who have long stay visas, or other non-business activities. This visa is suitable for long-term stays where the traveler does not plan to work or engage in commercial activities.
To qualify, applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months and meet specific criteria based on the purpose of their stay. For retirees, the applicant must be at least 50 years old and demonstrate sufficient funds, such as a bank balance of at least 800,000 THB or a monthly income of 65,000 THB. Those visiting family may need proof of relationship or sponsorship from a Thai national, etc.
Required documents include a completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, proof of financial means, and, if applicable, documents verifying the purpose of stay, such as a marriage certificate or retirement documents. The Non-Immigrant O Visa typically allows an initial stay of up to 90 days, which can be extended to one year at a Thai immigration office under certain conditions.
Renewal is possible by applying for a new Non-Immigrant O Visa from outside Thailand or by extending the existing visa if eligible. The cost varies depending on the embassy and nationality, but is generally around 80 USD for the initial 90-day stay and another 200 USD for the one-year extension.
Summary:
- Objective: Retirement, family visits, or long-term non-business stays
- Duration: 90 days initial stay, extendable up to one year
- Extension: Possible, subject to immigration approval
- Renewal: Possible by reapplying from outside Thailand or extending inside Thailand if eligible
Cost: About 80 USD (+200 USD for the one-year extension)
Non-Immigrant Visa O-A (Retirement visa)
The Non-Immigrant O-A Visa, also known as the Long Stay Retirement Visa, is specifically designed for foreigners aged 50 years and above who wish to retire in Thailand. This visa provides a convenient way for retirees to live in Thailand for extended periods without the need for frequent visa renewals, making it ideal for those seeking long-term residence for leisure or retirement purposes.
To qualify, applicants must be at least 50 years old and demonstrate sufficient financial means, such as a monthly income of at least 65,000 THB or a bank deposit of at least 800,000 THB in a Thai bank account. Applicants must also have valid health insurance covering Thailand and a passport valid for at least 18 months.
Required documents include a completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, proof of age, financial statements, and a health insurance certificate. The O-A Visa allows an initial stay of one year, which can be renewed annually at a Thai immigration office as long as the eligibility requirements continue to be met.
While this visa allows long-term residence, holders are not permitted to work in Thailand. The cost of obtaining the O-A Visa varies depending on the issuing Thai embassy, but it is generally about 200 USD per year for the initial issuance and annual renewal.
Summary:
- Objective: Long-term retirement
- Duration: 1 year, renewable annually
- Extension: Annual renewal at a Thai immigration office
- Renewal: Possible, subject to continued eligibility
- Cost: Approximately 200 USD per year
Non-Immigrant Visa O-X
The Non-Immigrant O-X Visa is a long-term retirement visa designed for wealthy foreigners aged 50 years and above who wish to reside in Thailand for an extended period. This visa provides up to ten years of legal residence, making it ideal for retirees who want security and stability without the need for frequent visa renewals.
To qualify, applicants must be at least 50 years old, hold citizenship from an approved country, and demonstrate significant financial means. This includes a minimum deposit of 3 million THB in a Thai bank account and proof of annual income or assets. Applicants must also have valid health insurance covering Thailand for the duration of their stay.
Required documents include a completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, proof of age, proof of financial means and a valid health insurance. The O-X Visa is issued for an initial period of five years and can be renewed once for an additional five years, allowing for a total of ten years of residence.
While holders of the O-X Visa enjoy long-term stay privileges, they are not permitted to work in Thailand. The cost of obtaining the O-X Visa varies by embassy but generally includes a visa fee of around 400 USD for the initial 5-year period and another 400 USD for the 5-year renewal, in addition to the required bank deposit.
Summary:
- Objective: Long-term retirement for wealthy retirees
- Duration: 5 years initially, renewable once for a total of 10 years
- Extension: Renewal possible after 5 years, subject to continued eligibility
- Renewal: Possible once for a total of 10 years
- Cost: Approximately 400 USD for the initial 5-year period (+400 USD for renewal)
Non-Immigrant Visa B (working visa)
The Non-Immigrant B Visa is designed for foreigners who intend to work, conduct business, or engage in commercial activities in Thailand. This visa is essential for expatriates planning employment, company setup, or business-related projects in the country.
To qualify, applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months and provide proof of employment or business in Thailand. This may include a letter from a Thai employer, company registration documents, or work permit approval.
Required documents generally include a completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, a valid passport, a letter of employment or business registration, proof of financial means, and sometimes a criminal background check depending on the embassy’s requirements. The Non-Immigrant B Visa typically allows an initial stay of 90 days, which can be extended to one year at a Thai immigration office once the work permit or business approval is in place.
Renewal is possible by extending the visa each year, as long as the employment or business relationship continues. The cost of the Non-Immigrant B Visa varies by embassy but is generally around 80 USD for the initial 90 days visa and about 200 USD for the one-year extension.
Summary:
- Objective: Work, business, or commercial activities
- Duration: 90 days initially, extendable up to 1 year
- Extension: Possible annually with proof of employment or business
- Renewal: Possible, subject to ongoing work or business approval
- Cost: About 80 USD (+200 USD for the one-year extension)
Non-Immigrant Visa ED (student visa)
The Non-Immigrant ED Visa is intended for foreigners who plan to study, train, or participate in educational programs in Thailand. This visa is ideal for students enrolled in schools, universities, language courses, or official training programs that require a legal stay in the country.
To qualify, applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months and provide proof of enrollment or acceptance from an educational institution in Thailand. Applicants must also demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover tuition fees and living expenses during their stay.
Required documents include a completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, a valid passport, an acceptance or enrollment letter from the Thai educational institution, proof of funds, and, in some cases, a health certificate or police clearance. The Non-Immigrant ED Visa typically allows an initial stay of 90 days, which can be extended for the duration of the study program, usually up to one year at a time.
Renewal is possible each year as long as the student remains enrolled and maintains the required documentation. The cost of the Non-Immigrant ED Visa varies by embassy but is generally about 80 USD for the initial 90-days issuance and it costs about 200 USD to extend it to a one-year visa
Summary:
- Objective: Study or participate in educational programs
- Duration: 90 days initially, extendable up to 1 year
- Extension: Possible annually with proof of continued enrollment
- Renewal: Possible each year, subject to ongoing studies
- Cost: About 80 USD (+200 USD for the one-year extension)
Long-Term Resident visa (LTR)
The Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa is designed for high-net-worth individuals, wealthy retirees, skilled professionals, and digital nomads who wish to live in Thailand for extended periods. This visa aims to attract foreign talent and investment, offering long-term residency options with fewer visa renewals and simplified immigration procedures.
To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria based on their category. High-net-worth individuals and retirees need to demonstrate significant financial assets or monthly income, while skilled professionals and digital nomads must provide proof of employment, specialized skills, or business activities in Thailand. Health insurance covering Thailand is also required, and applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months.
Required documents generally include a completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, proof of financial means or income, health insurance certificate, proof of employment or business activities (if applicable), and proof of accommodation in Thailand. The LTR Visa allows an initial stay of up to 10 years, depending on the category, with multiple-entry privileges in some cases.
Renewal or extension depends on the applicant’s category and continued eligibility, but the visa is generally structured to minimize repeated extensions. Costs vary according to the category, but is usually about 1,500 USD for 10 years period, plus any required bank deposits or investment amounts
Summary:
- Objective: Long-term residence for retirees, high-net-worth individuals, skilled professionals, or digital nomads
- Duration: Up to 10 years, depending on category
- Extension: Possible based on category and continued eligibility
- Renewal: Possible depending on category and compliance with requirements
- Cost: About 1,500 USD for a 10-year period
Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)
The DTV Visa, also known as the Destination Thailand Visa, is designed for digital nomads, remote workers, and online entrepreneurs who wish to live in Thailand while working remotely for foreign companies or running online businesses. This visa aims to attract international talent and boost Thailand’s digital economy by allowing long-term stays for remote work purposes.
To qualify, applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months and provide proof of stable remote work or digital business operations. Applicants must also demonstrate sufficient monthly income, typically around 100,000 THB, or equivalent financial stability to support their stay. Health insurance covering Thailand is required, and applicants must not engage in local employment or business without additional permits.
Required documents include a completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, proof of employment or online business, financial statements, and a health insurance certificate. The DTV Visa allows an initial stay of 1 year, with the possibility of multiple entries depending on the applicant’s category and compliance with visa conditions.
Renewal is possible for subsequent years as long as eligibility criteria continue to be met, including proof of ongoing remote work or digital business activity. The cost varies by issuing embassy but is generally around 10,000 THB (approximately 300 USD).
Summary:
- Objective: Long-term residence for retirees, high-net-worth individuals, skilled professionals, or digital nomads
- Duration: Up to 10 years depending on category
- Extension: Possible based on category and continued eligibility
- Renewal: Possible depending on category and compliance with requirements
- Cost: Approximately 10,000 THB (300 USD).
SMART Visa
The SMART Visa is designed for highly skilled professionals, executives, investors, and startup entrepreneurs who wish to live and work in Thailand in targeted industries such as technology, innovation, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. This visa aims to attract global talent and investment by offering long-term residency with simplified work authorization procedures.
To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria depending on their category, such as possessing specialized skills, holding an executive position in a Thai company, making a qualifying investment, or founding a startup in a promoted sector. Applicants must hold a passport valid for at least six months and have health insurance covering Thailand.
Required documents generally include a completed visa application form, passport-sized photos, proof of employment or investment, educational or professional qualifications, and a health insurance certificate. The SMART Visa allows an initial stay of 1–4 years, depending on the category, and may include multiple-entry privileges.
Renewal is possible as long as the applicant continues to meet the eligibility requirements, including employment or investment in the promoted sectors. The cost varies by category but typically, it costs about 400 USD per year, with certain investment or startup categories potentially requiring additional financial documentation.
Summary:
- Objective: Work, investment, or entrepreneurship in targeted industries
- Duration: 1–4 years depending on category
- Extension: Possible, subject to continued eligibility
- Renewal: Possible as long as requirements are met
- Cost: About 400 USD per year
Thailand Privilege Visa (formerly Thailand Elite)
The Thailand Privilege Visa, formerly known as the Thailand Elite Visa, is a long-term residence program designed for foreigners who wish to live in Thailand with exclusive privileges. This visa offers maximum flexibility and allows residency in Thailand for extended periods ranging from 5 to 20 years, depending on the membership package chosen, without strict income or age requirements. It is ideal for retirees, investors, frequent travelers, or anyone seeking a comfortable and simplified stay in Thailand.
To be eligible, applicants must hold a valid passport and pass a background check, including a police certificate and a medical certificate confirming the absence of contagious diseases. There are no minimum income or age requirements (except the Reserve Package, requiring the applicant to be at least 20 years old), and applicants simply need to select the membership level that aligns with their intended stay.
Required documents include a completed membership application form, a valid passport, recent photographs, a medical certificate, a police certificate, and proof of payment for the membership fees. Depending on the level chosen, the visa allows multiple entries and includes VIP airport services, transfers, access to concierge services, and other exclusive benefits for the entire duration of the program.
Membership costs range from 650,000 THB for the Bronze package (5 years) to 5,000,000 THB for the Reserve package (20 years), with a single payment and no additional annual fees.
Summary:
- Objective: Long-term residence with exclusive privileges and convenience
- Duration: 5–20 years depending on membership package
- Extension: Not typically required within the membership period
- Renewal: Not necessary during the membership validity
- Cost: 650,000–5,000,000 THB depending on package
Comparison of the Thailand Visas
| Visa Type | Purpose | Duration | Extension | Renewal | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visa Exemption | Short-term tourism/business | 30–90 days | +30 days | Not allowed | Free (extension 1,900 THB) |
| Visa on Arrival | Short-term tourism | 15 days | +7 days | Not allowed | 2,000 THB (extension 1,900 THB) |
| Tourist Visa (Single Entry) | Extended tourism | 60 days | +30 days | Not allowed | ~40 USD |
| Tourist Visa (Multiple Entry) | Multiple tourism visits | 60 days per entry | +30 days per entry | Not allowed | ~200 USD |
| Non-Immigrant O | Retirement, family, volunteering | 90 days | Up to 1 year | Possible | ~80 USD (+200 USD extension) |
| Non-Immigrant O-A | Retirement | 1 year | Annual renewal | Possible | ~200 USD/year |
| Non-Immigrant O-X | Long-term retirement | 5 years | 5-year renewal | Possible | ~400 USD (+400 USD renewal) |
| Non-Immigrant B | Work/business | 90 days | 1 year | Possible | ~80 USD (+200 USD extension) |
| Non-Immigrant ED | Study | 90 days | Up to 1 year | Possible | ~80 USD (+200 USD extension) |
| Long-Term Resident (LTR) | HNWIs, skilled professionals, digital nomads | Up to 10 years | Possible | Possible | ~1,500 USD/10 years |
| Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) | Remote work/digital nomads | 1 year | Possible | Possible | ~10,000 THB (~300 USD) |
| SMART Visa | Work, investment, startups | 1–4 years | Possible | Possible | ~400 USD/year |
| Thailand Privilege Visa | Long-term residency with perks | 5–20 years | Not required | Not required | 650,000–5,000,000 THB |
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