Thailand is considered one of the most attractive travel destinations in Southeast Asia. It is not only one of the most beautiful holiday destinations, but also offers a low yet high standard of living. Therefore, Thailand is one of the best places for foreigners to settle, retire, or consider as a second home.

From exotic beaches and rich cultures to delicious food and so much more, Thailand has to offer – it's no wonder foreigners flock there. Tourists know they only have 60 days to experience the wonders of Thailand. For some, that's too short a time to truly appreciate the country, while others discover within those 60 days that they belong in Thailand. The problem, however, lies in Thailand's strict visa policy. A simple tourist visa isn't enough for those wishing to stay longer. Foreigners can't simply travel to Thailand and stay; without the correct visa, numerous problems can arise.

The question one wants to answer is: How can one stay in Thailand, the land of smiles, for the long term?

Choosing the right visa

There are several ways to stay in Thailand, depending on the visa you need. If you plan to stay in Thailand long-term, you definitely don't need a tourist visa, as this is only valid for a limited stay of 60 days and is exclusively for tourism purposes. Choosing the right visa depends on how long you want to stay. Do you want to stay for a year? Longer than a year? Or, because you love Thailand so much, perhaps even 20 years?

For a one-year stay in Thailand, you can apply for a spouse visa. This visa is exclusively for foreigners married to a Thai citizen. If you plan to stay for four years, the Smart Visa is the right option. For a five-year stay, there's the Retirement Visa, which is only available to retirees over 50. And what about twenty years? For that, you can apply for the very special Thai Elite Visa.

What makes the Thai Elite Visa so special? Besides allowing for extended stays in Thailand, this visa is considered the most efficient way to enter and leave the country. It's ideal for businesspeople, travelers, retirees, families, and practically anyone. This is unlike other visa types, which have specific restrictions on the length of stay.

20 years of residence with the Thai elite visa

The Thai Elite Visa is the only visa that allows foreigners to stay in Thailand for an extended period with significantly less hassle than other visas. Unlike other visas, it permits you to remain in the country without the formalities required at the immigration office every 90 days. As it is a multiple-entry visa, you can easily enter and exit Thailand even during a long stay.

What's it like to live in Thailand for 20 years with a Thai Elite Visa? Well, it offers many privileges and exclusive support upon entry and during your stay in Thailand, including:

Airport service. This gives you access to exclusive lounges, a personal elite assistant, and a personal greeting upon every arrival and departure.

Speeding up the process. If you want to avoid long queues, this is ideal for you. It allows for faster processing of your immigration and passport control.

Transfer service. We offer a free transfer from the airport to your chosen accommodation.

Government services. You can request assistance with preparing your 90-day report, for which you do not need to appear in person. This is particularly convenient for foreigners who wish to avoid visiting the immigration office. We offer support not only with the 90-day report, but also with opening a bank account, applying for a driver's license, and establishing business contacts.

Relaxation, adventure, and preventative healthcare. It offers complimentary golf, spa treatments, and many other activities. Annual health and dental checkups are also included.

Exclusive discounts. Thai Elite members receive exclusive discounts at selected department stores, shopping malls, restaurants, and hotels across the country.

Applying for the Thai elite visa

Thanks to the privileges granted, foreigners will undoubtedly feel very welcome and at home, perhaps even more so than at home. Now that you know the advantages of the Thai Elite Visa during your stay in Thailand, here's how to apply for a Thai Elite Visa for a 20-year stay in Thailand.

Ask for assistance. It is recommended to seek professional help for a smooth visa application process.

Prepare the required documents. The following documents are required to apply for the Thai Elite Visa:

  • Completed application form for the Thai Elite Visa
  • Copy of the profile page of the passport
  • ID photo with white background (high resolution)
  • In the case of a family visa, a copy of the proof of kinship as the immediate family of the core member is required.
  • Apply for the visa. If you have already sought professional assistance, you can obtain the application form there. You do not need to appear in person. The application can be completed online. After entering the required information, you will have to wait one to three months for your criminal record to be checked. If this check is carried out and your application is accepted, a fee is payable. After payment is received, your application will be approved and your visa issued.

    Thai Elite member

    What happens after you apply? Congratulations! You can stay in Thailand indefinitely and do all the things you want in your new home. Consider Thailand your second home – make yourself at home. Enjoy your stay and relax.

    More pages about the Thai elite visa