Thailand is one of the most visited countries in the world. Thousands of tourists visit the kingdom and plan extended stays, whether as couples or families. To meet the increasing demand for longer stays, Thailand has introduced a new visa – the Thailand Privilege Visa, formerly known as the Thailand Elite Visa.

Unlike regular visa types, the Thailand Privilege Visa offers a points-based system that allows the cardholder and their partner to enjoy the luxury of living in the Kingdom with less paperwork and longer stays.

If you and your partner plan to spend your retirement comfortably as tourists in Thailand, the Thailand Elite Visa is the best option available.

Membership eligibility

  • You need a foreign passport that is valid for at least 1 year (365 days).
  • Do not travel to Thailand to study, work, or start a business.
  • Be mentally healthy and competent.
  • Applicants must not have any criminal record, entries on blacklists, bankruptcies or prolonged overstays of their visa.
  • They must not have been, either currently or in the past, the holder of a Thailand volunteer visa.
  • You must not have been, either currently or in the past, the holder of an (invalid) Thailand Education (ED) visa.
  • Why a Thailand Elite Visa?

    Long-term stay: The Thailand Elite Visa allows a stay of up to 5, 10 or even 15 years (up to 20 years with an invitation), which is significantly longer than standard pension visas that need to be renewed annually.

    Hassle-free visa: It eliminates the need for visa runs or annual visa renewals, which can be quite inconvenient for many pensioners.

    VIP treatment: Members often enjoy VIP treatment at airports, including expedited entry formalities, which can be very convenient for older travelers.

    Additional benefits: The visa may include additional benefits, such as discounts at hotels, restaurants and shopping centers, as well as free medical examinations at hospitals.

    Assistance with bureaucratic matters: The program often includes assistance with Thai bureaucratic matters, including driver's license issues, banking transactions, 90-day reporting requirements, and interaction with government agencies.

    Property acquisition: While the visa does not directly permit the purchase of real estate, its long-term nature can facilitate the process of renting or leasing property.

    Social opportunities: Membership offers access to exclusive clubs and social events, which can be beneficial for retirees who wish to be involved in a community.

    The Thailand Elite Visa offers a range of benefits designed to make your retirement in Thailand as comfortable and hassle-free as possible. These benefits are divided into different membership levels, each tailored to various needs and preferences. Discover the different membership levels of the Thailand Elite Visa program, which offers a range of services and privileges to meet the diverse needs of retirees.

    Membership levels

    There are two membership levels: Platinum and Diamond. For an additional fee, you and your partner can retire together. Your bonus points are updated annually.

    Thailand Elite Platinum Membership

  • Offers a visa validity of 10 years.
  • The membership fee is 1,500,000 THB, plus a fee of 1,000,000 THB for your spouse.
  • Privileged membership worth 35 points
  • Membership is non-transferable and non-refundable.
  • Benefits of Platinum Membership

  • At least two renewable multiple-entry visas, each valid for 5 years.
  • Residence permit for 1 year per entry into Thailand (with extension option)
  • Unlimited access to the premium lane for expedited immigration processing
  • Unlimited access to an elite personal assistant (EPA)
  • Annual health checks (once per membership period)
  • One overnight stay at the Anantara Vacation Club (only in the first year of membership)
  • Accident insurance (180 days, only in the first year of membership)
  • Premium lounge, parking privileges and shopping assistance (by appointment)
  • Unlimited cinema tickets: buy 1, get 1 free
  • Once a month, Mos Burger chain offers two dishes for the price of one.
  • Investment and wealth advisory sessions
  • Discounts at leading restaurants and department stores
  • 24/7 Member Contact Center (MCC) in English, Mandarin, Japanese and Korean (more languages ​​to follow in the future)
  • Further benefits that will enhance your already enjoyable trip to Thailand, provided you have enough benefit points to redeem.
  • Thailand Elite Diamond Membership

  • Offers a visa validity of 15 years.
  • The membership fee is 2,500,000 THB, plus a fee of 1,500,000 THB for each additional member (your spouse).
  • Privilege membership 55 points
  • Benefits of Diamond Membership

  • At least three renewable multiple-entry visas, each valid for 5 years.
  • One-year residence permit per entry into Thailand with an extension option.
  • Access to wealth management sessions and seminars
  • Annual health check-ups, once per membership period
  • Premium lounge, shopping advice, parking privileges (by arrangement)
  • Special insurance packages, such as accident insurance (365 days, only in the first year of membership)
  • Free overnight stay at the Anantara Vacation Club (only in the first year of membership).
  • 4x access to exclusive coworking spaces
  • Exclusive discounts at leading restaurant and department store chains
  • Unlimited offer: Buy 1 cinema ticket and get 1 free!
  • At Mos Burger, you get one free meal per year with the purchase of a meal.
  • Many additional benefits are not included in the main package but can be purchased with benefit points.
  • Application process

  • Complete and sign the application form for the membership of your choice.
  • Submit your application form, the PDPA form, a copy of your passport, and a photo of yourself. The required documents can be submitted via email, WhatsApp, Line, or post.
  • Wait for the successful completion of your background check by the Thai immigration authorities.
  • Please wait for the delivery of the approval letter and the payment invoice.
  • Pay your fees directly to Thailand Privilege Card Co., Ltd.
  • You will receive your welcome letter and membership card shortly. Members can also optionally request a physical membership card.
  • Affix the visa sticker to your passport at a Thai international airport (if you are abroad), at the Royal Thai Embassy (if you are abroad), or at the Thai Immigration Bureau in Chaeng Wattana, Bangkok.
  • In summary, the Thailand Elite Visa offers an excellent opportunity for those wishing to enjoy a comfortable retirement in Thailand. Siam Legal, a trusted partner, assists you in simplifying the process and ensuring a smooth transition to an extended stay in the Kingdom. With benefits such as extended visa validity and VIP treatment at airports, the Thailand Elite Visa allows retirees to make the most of their time in Thailand without the usual bureaucratic hurdles. The Platinum and Diamond membership levels each offer unique benefits and cater to different needs – for a tailor-made experience.