Which visa should you choose for vacation, living, and working in Thailand?

1. Visa-free entry

Citizens of a number of countries, including Russia, Ukraine, and most EU countries, can enter Thailand without a visa for up to 30 days. During the tourist season, the stay may sometimes be extended to 45 or 60 days.

The conditions for visa-free entry include a return ticket, a valid passport (with at least 6 months remaining before expiration), and sufficient financial means.

2. Visa on Arrival

For citizens of certain countries who are not eligible for visa-free entry, a Visa on Arrival is available at international airports and some land border checkpoints. The duration of stay is 15 days, and the purpose of visit is tourism.

3. Tourist Visa (TR)

For a longer stay, a Tourist Visa is issued for 60 days with the possibility of a 30-day extension at an immigration office.

4. Long-term visas

4.1. Non-Immigrant Visa “B” (Work)

Validity: 1 year.

Used for doing business, working, or setting up a company in Thailand. It requires an employment contract, approval from the Thai company for hiring a foreign employee from the Department of Labour, and compliance with other legal requirements.

A work permit must be obtained before starting employment.

A work permit can also be issued under Non-Immigrant Visa “O” (Family) or LTR visas.

4.2. Non-Immigrant Visa “O” (Family)

Validity: tied to the validity of the Non-B visa.

For spouses, children, or parents of Thai citizens, as well as employed foreigners.

4.3. Non-Immigrant Visa “ED” (Education)

For students of Thai universities and language schools. The validity depends on the program.

Important: holders of this visa are required to attend classes and reside in the province where the school is located. Frequent travel outside Thailand may lead to visa cancellation due to class absence.

4.4. Long-Term Resident Visa (LTR)

Validity: 10 years.

A new category for investors, highly skilled professionals, and wealthy retirees. It allows residence for up to 10 years.

4.5. Retirement Visa

Validity: 1 year.

Designed for foreign nationals aged 50 and above with stable income or sufficient savings. It is usually issued for 1 year with the possibility of annual renewal if financial requirements are met.

4.6. Thailand Elite Visa

A residency program for wealthy foreigners offering visas for 5, 10, or 15 years depending on the package. It includes benefits such as fast-track immigration clearance, VIP services, and a personal assistant.

5. Penalties

Overstaying is punished with a fine of 500 THB per day of overstay, up to deportation and a ban on re-entry. Visa extensions may be granted at local immigration offices in case of valid reasons.

Important: children under 14 are exempt from overstay fines; however, an overstay stamp in a child’s passport may later lead to visa refusal in Thailand or other countries.