Thailand Visas
Thailand Visa Types & Requirements
Thailand offers several visa paths for short stays and long stays. This page explains the main options used in Phuket, including tourist, education, business, marriage, retirement, and long stay programs. You will find entry requirements, documents, timelines, renewals, 90 day reporting, and work permit basics. We also highlight common mistakes and simple ways to avoid delays with immigration and consulates.
Use this guide to choose the right route for your goals and budget. When you are ready to plan your next steps.
Work Permit
Required for individuals legally employed in Thailand or conducting professional work in the country.
Age Requirement: None.
Cost: 2,000-5,000 THB depending on the duration.
Processing Time: 2-3 weeks.
Cost: 2,000-5,000 THB depending on the duration.
Processing Time: 2-3 weeks.
Volunteer (Non-O)
For individuals volunteering with registered non-profit organizations in Thailand.
Age Requirement: None.
Cost: 2,000 THB for single-entry.
Processing Time: 2-4 weeks.
Cost: 2,000 THB for single-entry.
Processing Time: 2-4 weeks.
Smart Visa
A specialized visa for highly skilled professionals working in targeted industries, such as technology or healthcare.
Age Requirement: None.
Cost: 10,000 THB per application.
Processing Time: Up to 30 days.
Cost: 10,000 THB per application.
Processing Time: Up to 30 days.
Retirement Visa (Non-O-A)
Designed for individuals aged 50 and above, allowing long-term stays for retirees with sufficient financial proof
Age Requirement: 50 years and above.
Cost: 2,000 THB for single-entry; additional costs for extensions.
Processing Time: 2-4 weeks.
Cost: 2,000 THB for single-entry; additional costs for extensions.
Processing Time: 2-4 weeks.
Permanent Residence Visa
For long-term residents aiming to settle permanently in Thailand.
Age Requirement: None.
Cost: 191,400 THB.
Processing Time: 6-12 months.
Cost: 191,400 THB.
Processing Time: 6-12 months.
Visa on Arrival
A short-term visa issued at the port of entry for travelers from eligible countries visiting Thailand for tourism purposes.
Age Requirement: None.
Cost: 2,000 THB (cash payment upon arrival).
Processing Time: Approximately 10-30 minutes at the port of entry.
Cost: 2,000 THB (cash payment upon arrival).
Processing Time: Approximately 10-30 minutes at the port of entry.
Non-Immigrant O Visa (Thai Marriage Visa)
This visa allows foreign nationals married to Thai citizens to reside in Thailand for extended periods. Initially granted for 90 days, it can be extended annually, provided the applicant continues to meet the eligibility criteria.
Age Requirement: No specific age requirement.
Cost: The processing fee for the 90-day Non-Immigrant O Visa is approximately 2,000 THB. The extension fee for the one-year visa is around 1,900 THB. Fees may vary depending on the Thai embassy or consulate where the application is submitted.
Processing Time: The processing time for the initial 90-day visa is typically 3 to 5 business days. The extension application for the one-year visa may take up to 30 days.
Cost: The processing fee for the 90-day Non-Immigrant O Visa is approximately 2,000 THB. The extension fee for the one-year visa is around 1,900 THB. Fees may vary depending on the Thai embassy or consulate where the application is submitted.
Processing Time: The processing time for the initial 90-day visa is typically 3 to 5 business days. The extension application for the one-year visa may take up to 30 days.
Long Term Resident Visa (LTR)
The Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa is a 10-year visa introduced by Thailand to attract high-potential individuals, including wealthy global citizens, retirees, skilled professionals, and remote workers. This visa offers a range of tax and non-tax benefits to enhance Thailand’s appeal as a regional hub for living and business.
Age Requirement: Depends on the category applied for (e.g. retirees must be 50+)
Cost: The application fee for the LTR Visa is 50,000 Baht for a 10-year period.
Processing Time: Typically between 4-8 weeks but processing times can vary depending on the embassy or consulate where you apply.
Cost: The application fee for the LTR Visa is 50,000 Baht for a 10-year period.
Processing Time: Typically between 4-8 weeks but processing times can vary depending on the embassy or consulate where you apply.
Guardian Visa
Allows parents to stay in Thailand to support their children enrolled in Thai schools.
Age Requirement: None.
Cost: 2,000 THB for single-entry.
Processing Time: 1-2 weeks.
Cost: 2,000 THB for single-entry.
Processing Time: 1-2 weeks.
Elite Visa
A premium long-term visa offering exclusive benefits and privileges for high-net-worth individuals.
Age Requirement: None.
Cost: 600,000 THB for 5-year membership (varies by package).
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks.
Cost: 600,000 THB for 5-year membership (varies by package).
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks.
Education Visa (Non-ED)
Available for students enrolled in Thai educational institutions or training programs.
Age Requirement: None.
Cost: 2,000 THB for single-entry.
Processing Time: 1-2 weeks.
Cost: 2,000 THB for single-entry.
Processing Time: 1-2 weeks.
Digital Nomad Visa (DTV)
Tailored for remote workers and freelancers working with international clients while living in Thailand.
Age Requirement: None.
Cost: Estimated 50,000-80,000 THB for a 1-year visa, depending on the package.
Processing Time: 2-3 weeks.
Cost: Estimated 50,000-80,000 THB for a 1-year visa, depending on the package.
Processing Time: 2-3 weeks.
Business Visa (Non-B)
For professionals and investors working in Thailand or conducting business-related activities.
Age Requirement: None.
Cost: 2,000 THB for single-entry; multiple-entry fees vary.
Processing Time: 2-4 weeks.
Cost: 2,000 THB for single-entry; multiple-entry fees vary.
Processing Time: 2-4 weeks.
