As of 2024, Thailand offers various types of visas to accommodate different purposes of stay. Here’s an overview of the most common visas available:
1. Tourist Visa
- Single-Entry Tourist Visa (SETV): Allows a stay of up to 60 days. Can be extended for an additional 30 days at a local immigration office.
- Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa (METV): Valid for six months, allowing multiple entries with each stay up to 60 days. Can also be extended for 30 days per entry.
2. Visa Exemption
- Visa Exemption Scheme: Allows nationals of certain countries to enter Thailand without a visa for tourism purposes for up to 30 days (15 days if entering overland). Can be extended for an additional 30 days.
3. Non-Immigrant Visa
These visas are intended for long-term stays for various purposes, such as work, business, study, and family reunification.
- Non-Immigrant B Visa (Business)
- Purpose: Employment or conducting business.
- Duration: Initial stay of 90 days, extendable to one year.
- Requirements: Job offer, business invitation, or relevant documentation.
- Non-Immigrant O Visa (Other)
- Purpose: For family members of Thai citizens, retirees, volunteers, and other specific groups.
- Duration: Initial stay of 90 days, extendable to one year.
- Subcategories:
- Marriage Visa: For foreign spouses of Thai nationals.
- Retirement Visa: For retirees aged 50 and above.
- Volunteer Visa: For those volunteering in Thailand.
- Non-Immigrant ED Visa (Education)
- Purpose: For studying in Thailand, including language courses.
- Duration: Initial stay of 90 days, extendable based on the length of the course.
- Requirements: Acceptance letter from a recognized educational institution.
- Non-Immigrant O-A and O-X Visas (Long Stay)
- Purpose: For retirees wishing to stay long-term.
- Non-Immigrant O-A Visa: One-year visa for applicants aged 50 and above.
- Non-Immigrant O-X Visa: Ten-year visa for applicants aged 50 and above from specific countries.
4. Smart Visa
- Purpose: For highly skilled professionals, investors, executives, and startup entrepreneurs in specific industries such as technology, healthcare, and research.
- Duration: Up to four years.
- Benefits: Includes work privileges without the need for a work permit, and family members can also stay in Thailand.
5. Elite Visa
- Purpose: For long-term stays, primarily aimed at affluent individuals seeking ease of access and extended stays.
- Duration: Options range from five to 20 years.
- Benefits: Includes expedited immigration processes, multiple entries, and exclusive services.
6. Diplomatic and Official Visas
- Purpose: For diplomats, officials, and their dependents.
- Duration: Varies based on assignment.
7. Permanent Residency
- Purpose: For foreigners who wish to live in Thailand permanently.
- Requirements: Long-term stay in Thailand on a non-immigrant visa, annual income proof, and other criteria. Application periods are typically announced annually.
8. Work Permit
- Purpose: Required for foreigners working in Thailand.
- Requirements: Valid non-immigrant B visa, employment contract, and relevant documents from the employer.
Summary
Thailand offers a variety of visas to suit different needs, including tourism, business, employment, education, retirement, and long-term stays. The process and requirements for each visa type may vary, so it’s essential to check the latest regulations and consult with Thai immigration or relevant consulates when planning your stay.
The information above is general and can differ depending on your age or citizenship.