Thailand makes long term visas more attractive for foreigners

By Uglobal Staff

Foreigners will now be able to live and work in Thailand for up to 10 years following the Thai cabinet's approval to amend a key piece of an immigration legislation as the country looks to boost investment.

The Thai cabinet approved the amendments to the country's Immigration Act on January 18 after the Thai interior and labor ministries submitted their draft proposals to make the long-term visa laws for foreigners more attractive, according to the Thai deputy government spokeswoman, Rachada Dhnadirek, quoted in local media.

Apart from high-net-worth individuals, the long-term visa would be open to foreign pensioners, digital nomads as well as highly skilled professionals. Families of applicants would also be eligible to apply, including children up to 20 years of age.

The minimum amount thresholds for the visa were not revealed but it was mentioned that visa holders would be required to pay 10,000 baht (around $300) as annual fee for each of the years they stay in the country.

Initially, applicants would be issued a five-year visa, which would be renewable for another five-year term. Foreigners who wish to work would be able to do so after they apply for a work permit while staying on the long-term visa; they would be allowed to start working as soon as they file for the work permit. Those wishing to run their own businesses would also be allowed to stay on the same visa, but they too would need to apply for a work permit.

Powered by Froala Editor

About the Author

Uglobal Staff
Uglobal Staff
Uglobal.com, along with its peer-reviewed magazines and conferences series, focuses on the global investment immigration market, offering the latest trends and analyses. Uglobal.com is a media platform built to provide professionals involved with global programs with the most comprehensive and credible sources of information in digital, print and seminar mediums. The platform was created out of the need for marketplace transparency and to more efficiently connect individuals interested in learning about the global programs - either as a potential capital source or as a solution for their immigration needs. The Uglobal publication collaborates with a network of leading experts and an authoritative board of advisors to uphold a high standard in all content delivered and events hosted by the organization.

Magazine Sign Up

Sign up to receive a free copy of our industry leading global immigration magazine

Become a Verified Member

Join our the global immigration community

join for free