The Elite Visa is the answer to those who want to live and work in Thailand but don’t want to deal with a lot of bureaucracy. It is a way for you to live, work and travel without having to deal with the hassles that long stayers have to endure on an annual basis.
The program offers an opportunity to secure a residence permit for up to 20 years in exchange for a one-time membership fee of THB 600,000 (approximately USD 18,000) with options available for 5 and 20 years. The program provides a variety of privileges and VIP services that can make your life in Thailand easier than ever before.
Aside from the visa, members of the Elite program receive a host of complimentary VIP benefits and services such as priority lanes at immigration checkpoints, fast-track airport service, exclusive invitations to Thai government events and other opportunities for business and leisure.
How to Apply for an Elite Visa in Thailand
The process of getting an Elite visa in Thailand is quite straightforward. Firstly, you need to find an accredited agent in Thailand and then pay the application fee. Once the agent has the funds, he or she will send you your Thai Elite Membership ID number. Then, you can go to your nearest immigration office to apply for the Elite Visa.
You will need to fill out an application form and provide documents that prove your identity, your financial health, and your ability to maintain a life in Thailand. You also need to pass a background check. The visa process takes around three months, but it can be much faster than this.
How to Apply for an Elite Easy Access Visa
The first option that the Thailand Privilege Card Company has to offer is the five-year Elite Easy Access visa for THB 600,000 including VAT (approximately USD 19,000) with no annual fee and no age restriction. This visa is the ideal option for those looking to come and go as they please, as it has no restrictions on the amount of money that you can spend.
After the Elite Easy Access visa, you have the option of upgrading to the Elite Ultimate Privilege option for THB 1.498 million including VAT (approximately USD 48,000) or the Elite Superiority Extension for THB 400,000 including VAT (approximately USD 12,000. Both options have no age restrictions and include complimentary VIP privileges such as airport services and government concierge.
Buying Real Estate in Thailand
The most important benefit of the Elite Visa is that it allows you to own condos and other buildings in Thailand without having to have a land-lease. However, you will still need to pay taxes on any income that you earn from the real estate and other sources in Thailand.
In addition, you can also purchase a land-lease to build a house in Thailand as long as the land-lease is for at least 30 years and you will need to apply for construction permits. You can also invest in Thai companies and become a shareholder as long as you don’t do any managerial activities or sign legal documents.