In May 2024, the Thai Cabinet approved the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC visa), a new long-term visa option for skilled workers, executives, academics, and their dependents. The aim of this visa is to promote selected industries in Thailand, including automation, robotics, aviation, logistics, and biochemistry.

What is the EEC visa for Thailand?

The EEC visa for Thailand was created to attract experts from specific fields and industries to work in Thailand and to support the development of the respective target industry.

The visa is intended to attract skilled professionals to the provinces of the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), a special economic zone on Thailand's east coast. The EEC provinces include Chachoengsao, Chonburi, and Rayong, each focused on strong growth in high technology and industry.

Duration and details of the Thai visa for EU citizens

The EEC Thai visa is valid for 10 years and is issued in the form of a renewable 5-year multiple entry permit, which allows the holder to leave and re-enter Thailand without having to apply for a re-entry permit each time.

However, the length of stay in Thailand may not exceed the duration of the employment contract, regardless of its validity. This means that if a visa holder has signed a one-year contract, their visa and entry permit expire upon termination of the contract, and they will need a new visa to remain in Thailand.

The ECC Thai visa is available in four categories:

  • Specialists (EEC visa “S”)
  • Executives (EU visa “E”)
  • Skilled workers (EEC visa “P”)
  • Spouses and dependents (EEC visa “O”)

    • To switch to and maintain this visa, applicants must pay an annual fee of 10,000 THB, while the application fee for an EEC work permit is a one-time flat fee of 20,000 THB.

    Advantages of the Thailand EEC visa

    The EEC visa not only entitles its holder to a ten-year stay in Thailand, but also grants the following advantages:

  • A flat income tax rate of 17%: This is particularly attractive, as Thailand's progressive income tax rate can be as high as 35%.
  • Accelerated processing of work permits: Holders benefit from faster and more cost-effective processing of their work permit through the One-Stop Service Center in Thailand.
  • Simplified online registration: Holders no longer need to be physically present at the Thai immigration office to submit their registration.
  • Access to fast-track lanes at international airports in Thailand: For holders who frequently travel to and from Thailand by air, this privilege offers an optimal airport experience.

    • Alternative to the EEC visa: LTR visa

    Unlike the EEC visa for Thailand, which is exclusively for skilled workers intending to work in the EEC region, the LTR visa for Thailand is open to all skilled workers employed by companies throughout Thailand. It grants the same ten-year stay in Thailand, a renewable entry permit for five years, and similar benefits as the EEC visa. However, the validity of the LTR visa is not dependent on the length of employment.

    If you would like to learn more about this long-term visa option or require professional assistance with your Thailand visa application, please contact Siam Legal. Our team of legal experts and visa consultants will guide you through your application process, ensuring a smooth procedure with minimal risk of delays and rejections.