3. Non-Immigrant Visas

Non-Immigrant Visa “B” (Business)

Designed for individuals conducting business, attending meetings, or working in Thailand.

Key Points:

• Validity: 90 days (single-entry) or 1 year (multiple-entry)
• Extension: Possible within Thailand for up to 1 year
• Requirements: Passport, completed visa application form, recent photograph, letter of invitation from a Thai company, proof of financial means, and additional documents based on business activities.

Non-Immigrant Visa “ED” (Education)

For those pursuing education in Thailand, including language courses, university degrees, and other academic programs.

Key Points:

• Validity: 90 days (initially), extendable to 1 year
• Extension: Renewable annually based on course duration
• Requirements: Passport, completed visa application form, recent photograph, acceptance letter from an educational institution, and proof of financial means.

Non-Immigrant Visa “O” (Other)

Covers various purposes such as visiting family, volunteering, or attending to Thai dependents.

Key Points:

• Validity: 90 days (single-entry) or 1 year (multiple-entry)
• Extension: Possible within Thailand for up to 1 year
• Requirements: Passport, completed visa application form, recent photograph, supporting documents related to the purpose of stay, and proof of financial means.

Non-Immigrant Visa “O-A” and “O-X” (Retirement)

Tailored for retirees wishing to spend extended periods in Thailand.

Key Points:

• Non-Immigrant Visa “O-A”: Valid for 1 year, renewable annually
• Non-Immigrant Visa “O-X”: Valid for 10 years (5+5 years), available to citizens of 14 countries
• Requirements: Passport, completed visa application form, recent photograph, proof of financial means (income or bank statement), medical certificate, and police clearance certificate.

4. Special Long-Term Visas

Thailand Elite Visa

Part of Thailand’s Privilege Card Program offering extended residency options with exclusive benefits.

Key Points:

• Validity: 5, 10, or 20 years (depending on package)
• Benefits: VIP services, airport fast-track, discounts, and exclusive events
• Requirements: Membership fee (THB 500,000 to THB 2,000,000), passport, completed application form, and recent photograph.

Smart Visa

Geared towards attracting skilled professionals, investors, and startup entrepreneurs in targeted industries.

Key Points:

• Validity: Up to 4 years
• Benefits: No work permit required, residency eligibility for spouse and children
• Requirements: Passport, completed visa application form, recent photograph, qualifications proof, employment contract or business plan, and approval from Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI).

5. Extension and Renewal of Visas

Extending or renewing visas in Thailand is straightforward with proper preparation and meeting necessary criteria. Applications can be processed at local immigration offices, ideally before the current visa expires.

General Steps for Visa Extension:

1. Visit the Immigration Office: Locate the nearest Thai Immigration Office.
2. Submit Documents: Provide necessary documents including passport, application form, and supporting documents.
3. Pay the Fee: Pay the visa extension fee (typically THB 1,900).
4. Receive Extension: Await processing and receive visa extension.

Common Documents Required:

• Passport: Valid with at least 6 months remaining.
• Application Form: Completed visa extension form.
• Photograph: Recent passport-sized photo.
• Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or financial proof.
• Additional Documents: Depending on visa type, additional documents like invitation letters, proof of residence, or educational certificates may be necessary.