Permanent residence in Thailand offers a host of benefits, including the right to live and work in the country indefinitely, without the need for visa renewals. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the permanent residence process, eligibility criteria, application procedures, required documentation, and practical tips to ensure a successful application.

1. Overview of Permanent Residence in Thailand

Purpose and Benefits:

• Long-Term Stability: Allows foreigners to live in Thailand permanently without the need for periodic visa renewals.
• Work Rights: Grants the right to work in Thailand without a work permit.
• Family Benefits: Spouses and children of permanent residents can also apply for permanent residence.
• Property Ownership: Eases the process of property ownership and investment in Thailand.
• Path to Citizenship: After holding permanent residence for a certain period, one can apply for Thai citizenship.

Annual Quota:

• Limitations: The Thai government sets an annual quota for permanent residence approvals, with a maximum of 100 persons per nationality.

2. Eligibility Criteria

General Requirements:

• Residence Period: Applicants must have lived in Thailand on a non-immigrant visa for at least three consecutive years.
• Visa Status: Must hold a non-immigrant visa at the time of application.
• Employment: Must have employment in Thailand with a minimum annual income (varies by nationality).
• Tax Payment: Must have paid income tax in Thailand for at least three consecutive years.

Specific Categories:

1. Investment: For those who invest a minimum of 10 million THB in Thailand.
2. Employment: For those who have held a work permit and been employed in Thailand for at least three consecutive years.
3. Humanity Reasons: For those who have a Thai spouse or child.
4. Experts and Academics: For experts and academics contributing to Thai society.
5. Other Categories: Includes individuals who bring significant benefits to Thailand, such as those with special skills or talents.

3. Detailed Documentation Requirements

General Documentation:

1. Passport: Copy of the passport with all relevant visa stamps and extensions.
2. Non-Immigrant Visa: Proof of holding a non-immigrant visa for at least three consecutive years.
3. Work Permit: Copy of the current work permit and previous work permits.
4. Employment Certificate: Certificate from the employer confirming employment details and duration.
5. Income Proof: Personal income tax returns and proof of income for the past three years.
6. Marriage/ Birth Certificates: For applicants applying based on family reasons, copies of marriage and birth certificates.
7. Police Clearance Certificate: Clearance certificate from the Thai police and home country authorities.
8. Health Certificate: Medical certificate from a recognized hospital in Thailand.

Investment-Specific Documentation:

1. Investment Proof: Evidence of investment, such as bank statements, property deeds, or investment certificates.
2. Company Documents: For those investing in businesses, include company registration documents and financial statements.

Application Form:

• Form TM.9: Completed and signed application form TM.9.
• Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs.

4. Step-by-Step Application Process

Initial Preparation:

1. Eligibility Check: Verify that all eligibility criteria are met, including residence period and visa status.
2. Document Collection: Gather all required documents, ensuring they are complete and up-to-date.

Submission:

1. Application Submission: Submit the application form and supporting documents to the Immigration Bureau in Bangkok.
2. Interview: Attend an interview at the Immigration Bureau. Be prepared to answer questions about your background, employment, and reasons for applying for permanent residence.
3. Fees: Pay the applicable application fees.

Processing:

1. Application Review: The Immigration Bureau reviews the application and conducts background checks.
2. Approval Notification: Successful applicants receive a notification of approval.

Final Steps:

1. Residence Certificate: Obtain the residence certificate from the Immigration Bureau.
2. Registration: Register at the local police station and obtain a house registration certificate (Tabien Baan).
3. Alien Book: Apply for an alien book (similar to an ID card) at the local Immigration Office.

Tips for a Successful Application:

• Organized Documentation: Ensure all documents are well-organized and easily accessible.
• Complete and Accurate Forms: Double-check that all forms are fully completed and accurate.
• Professional Translation: Have all non-Thai documents translated by certified translators.

5. Case Studies and Real-Life Examples

Example 1: Employment-Based Application:

• Scenario: A British national employed in Thailand for four years with a stable job and consistent tax payments.
• Action: Submitted detailed employment records, tax returns, and work permits.
• Outcome: Successfully granted permanent residence after a smooth application process.

Example 2: Investment-Based Application:

• Scenario: An Australian investor who has invested 15 million THB in Thai real estate.
• Action: Provided investment documents, bank statements, and property deeds.
• Outcome: Approved for permanent residence due to significant investment in the country.

6. Enhancing Expertise and Credibility

Demonstrating Professional Credentials:

• Legal Partnerships: Collaborate with reputable immigration attorneys and legal experts to provide authoritative guidance.
• Experience in Permanent Residence Applications: Showcase years of experience in assisting clients with the permanent residence process.

Providing Authoritative References:

• Official Sources: Reference official documentation from the Thai Immigration Bureau and relevant Thai laws.
• Expert Insights: Include opinions and advice from recognized immigration and legal experts.

Detailed Case Studies:

• Client Testimonials: Feature testimonials from successful permanent residence applicants.
• Real-Life Scenarios: Provide comprehensive examples of different types of applicants and their experiences with the permanent residence process.

Visual Aids and Infographics:

• Application Process Flowchart: Use flowcharts to illustrate the visa application steps.
• Document Checklist: Create a checklist for required documents to help applicants organize their submissions.

By incorporating these detailed elements and demonstrating professional credentials, this guide aims to provide comprehensive, authoritative, and reliable information on the permanent residence application process in Thailand. This approach will enhance the article's depth, detail, and credibility, making it a valuable resource for foreigners seeking long-term stability in Thailand.

Thailand Elite Visa is one of the long-term visas classified as “Privilege Entry Visa”(PE) under the supervision of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) and the Ministry of Tourism and Sports established by the Thai government. Thailand Privilege Card Co., Ltd., has the status of a state-owned enterprise that acts as management which issues the membership card for the visa term of 5, 10, and 20 years by giving the prerogative for tourist visa type for foreigners who are members and needed to have a long-term visa to stay in Thailand with good priority and excellence.

Thailand Elite Visa Cost

1. Gold Membership

Embark on a life of value with our Gold Membership, enriching your Thailand experience through a diverse selection of living choices.

• Membership Fee: THB 900,000 (Including VAT)
• Membership Duration: 5 years
• Earn 20 Points annually

2. Platinum Membership

Delve into your desired living experience with our Platinum Membership, extending your stay and offering an expanded array of choices.

• Membership Fee: THB 1,500,000 (Including VAT)
• Membership Duration: 10 years
• Additional Membership Fee: THB 1,000,000 (Including VAT/Each)
• Accumulate 35 Points per year

3. Diamond Membership

Redefined luxury living awaits with our Diamond Membership, providing a maximum 15-year stay and exclusive privileges tailored to your desires.

• Membership Fee: THB 2,500,000 (Including VAT)
• Membership Duration: 15 years
• Additional Membership Fee: THB 1,500,000 (Including VAT/Each)
• Receive 55 Points per year

4. Reserve Membership

The Reserve Card is the most exclusive offering, delivering luxury beyond measure. This package is exclusively offered to applicants via invitation.

• Membership Fee: THB 5,000,000 (Including VAT)
• Membership Duration: 20 years
• Additional Membership Fee: THB 2,000,000 (Including VAT/Each)
• Enjoy 120 Points annually

Check the Thai Elite Visa Cost from Thaiembassy.com.

How to become a Thailand Elite Member

(General information and requirements)

• Thailand Elite visa holders are not allowed to work and study in Thailand.
• If the applicant overstays in Thailand, a person with an overstaying record cannot apply(Rejected) then have to leave the country to clear the record.

Qualifications of the Applicant

1. Not having been a suspect of any criminal offense in any country except for an offense committed to negligence.
2. Not having been adjudicated bankrupt.
3. Not having been declared as a person of unsound mind, incompetence, or quasi-incompetent.
4. Being allowed to stay in Thailand in accordance with the immigration laws or any other related laws of Thailand.
5. Holding a foreign passport.
6. The applicant’s age depends on each package’s requirement.

**Please carefully check terms and conditions.

Documents Required (for Applying)

1. Copy of the 1st page of your passport. (JPEG image)
2. A copy of every Thailand stamp in your passport.
3. The passport must have at least 3 blank pages for visa stamp, the observation page is inapplicable.
4. Completed application form (6-8pages)
   • Properly scanned copy, with handwritten signature (same as passport)
5. One passport size photograph (JPEG file preferred)
   • Photographs must have a light color, plain background with a full-face view of the person without wearing a hat or dark glasses.
   • Passport size 2X2 inch (The photo should be a color photo 35-45 mm in width, close up of your face measuring between 30-36 mm, with the light background, not older than 6 months, and No retouch.)
6. Those who apply for a family package must provide proof of relationship in English. For example, a Marriage Certificate or a Birth Certificate.

Application Process

1. All required documents are prepared.
   • Copy of your passport
   • Photograph
   • Application form
   • Proof of relationship documents

2. Required Documents
   • Submit the application form and required documents to Thailand Elite Card.

3. Background Check
   • Thailand Elite will submit all documents (PDF) to the Immigration Bureau and Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
   • The process takes about 1-2 months depending on the applicant’s nationality.

4. Approval Letter, to the applicant or agent’s email provided.
   • Once your application is approved, the approval letter will be sent to you.

5. Make a payment for membership fee
   • 7 days waiting for confirmation of the payment.

6. Thailand Elite check for payment
   • Will be check the payment (3-5 working days)

When the payment is confirmed? 

Once we confirm your transaction, a welcome letter and membership ID number will be sent to you.

The applicant can later make an appointment for affixing Thailand Elite Visa. (The appointment can be made 1 month in advance and no less than 5 working days in advance before the preferred date to affix the visa). See also the Thailand Elite Visa from Thaiembassy.com.

When the membership has been activated, all members are required need to do the following:

1. 90-Day Report
2. Stay Extension
3. TM 30

Requirement while staying (in Thailand)

1. Staying in Thailand for over 90 days without leaving the country. The members are required to do a 90-Day report at the immigration office in the area of your residence. No report is required if the stay is less than 90 days per entry but if he/she wishes to stay in the country for over 90 days, a 90-Day report is required.

2. Stay Extension (Staying in Thailand for more than 1 year): you will be required to apply for a One-Year Stay Extension at the Immigration Bureau in person and must complete before the expiry date of the arrival stamp. The fee of 1,900 is applied. However, if members leave Thailand within 365 days of their stay permission, no extension is required.

3. TM 30 (House owners or landlords who accommodate foreign nationals are responsible to notify the local immigration authorities). For house owners or landlords who accommodate foreign nationals, notifications of residence for foreigners.

Note: 90-Day report and stay extension needs to have TM 30, which is the responsibility of the house owners or landlords. Who accommodate foreign nationals to notify the local immigration authorities. If the member is the owner of the house, he/she needs to provide TM 30 to the authority in the area.

A new kind of visa known as a "Smart Visa" was created specifically to draw highly skilled workers, investors, executives, and startup business owners who want to work or invest in the Kingdom of Thailand's chosen industries. Holders of Smart Visas will receive a maximum 4-year stay authorization as well as freedom from the need for a work permit and access to other benefits.

Thailand SMART Visa Benefits

If you are a foreign investor and want to enter Thailand, you may qualify for a Smart Visa. These visas are specifically designed for investors and entrepreneurs. They offer multiple benefits and are available to qualified applicants. Among the benefits are fast-track immigration service and a maximum stay of four years. There are five types of SMART Visas, each with its own set of requirements.

Types of SMART Visa

• Smart T (Talent)
• Smart I (Investor)
• Smart E (Executive)
• Smart S (Startup)
• Smart O (Other)

The first type is the SMART Startup Visa (S) which is designed for entrepreneurs looking to establish a business in Thailand. Applicants need to register a company within the first year of their SMART Visa. In addition to that, they also need to deposit 600,000 Thai baht in the Thai economy. Also, they must have health insurance. Other requirements include a plan to start a tech startup. Next, they must apply for a Qualification Endorsement. This process is done online. Applicants will need to answer questions about their qualifications, including their work experience and past research, as well as information about their intellectual property. Their applications will then be reviewed by relevant government agencies. It can take up to one month for endorsements to be processed. Once the verification process is complete, a letter of qualification will be issued. Moreover, this letter will serve as a supporting document for your Smart Visa application. After that, you will be required to report your stay in Thailand to the Immigration Department every year. During this reporting period, you must provide proof of your current residence in the country. You should submit your WP3 document, police certificate and a copy of your SMART Visa application form. Finally, you will be required to show a valid passport and proof of health insurance. Alternatively, you can also apply for the Smart Visa in the overseas embassy. However, this option is more complex. Besides the fact that you will be required to present a copy of your Smart Visa sticker, you must also report any incorrect information on it to the consular officer. Aside from that, you can still enjoy the benefits of the SMART Visa, such as a free pass to enter the country and unlimited access to its border. Another Smart Visa category is the SMART Other Visa. This applies to spouses and legitimate children of smart visa holders. During this period, the spouses and children can also live and work in Thailand without a work permit. Generally, a Thai worker will be allowed to stay in the country for up to four years and a Thai investor is eligible for the Visa for a maximum of two years. Unlike other visa categories, this Visa category does not require re-entry permits. Investors can qualify for the SMART Visa "E". This Visa requires investment in an S-curve industry in Thailand or in an incubator or accelerator program in the country. Moreover, it requires a minimum of ten years of work experience in the field and a monthly income of at least 200,000 Thai baht.

The Thai government has announced that it will launch a new visa scheme targeting high-potential foreigners. It will offer a long-term resident visa, which will grant a tax advantage to qualifying foreigners. This visa scheme will be implemented from 1 September 2022. The government hopes to attract one million eligible foreigners over the next five years. The LTR visa is expected to be an important step towards the economic development of Thailand. It will facilitate foreigners to live and work legally in the country for a period of up to 10 years. A number of foreigners are expected to apply for the visa, including those with experience in a targeted industry.

Qualification

To qualify for the new visa, applicants need to have at least a master's degree in science or technology. They must also possess a minimum of five years of experience in a targeted industry. These individuals will be eligible for a reduced personal income tax rate of 17%. Additionally, they will receive a tax exemption for their overseas income. In addition, they will be able to invest in government bonds and invest in foreign direct investments.

Requirements

The Thai government has also outlined certain requirements for the application of a long-term resident visa. Qualifying individuals will need to have earned a minimum of USD 80,000 over the last two years. Applicants who want to work in a targeted industry in Thailand are required to have access to a specialized training institution. They must also have health insurance. If they work in a government institution, they do not need to have a minimum income, though they will need to have at least a hundred thousand dollars in savings. Similarly, digital nomads, who plan to work from Thailand, will also need to have at least a fifty-thousand-dollar health insurance policy. Foreigners will be required to submit an online application and pay an application fee of 50,000 baht. After registering, applicants will be notified of their results within twenty days. Afterward, they can apply for the visa through a Thai embassy or Royal Thai Consulate General.

LTR Visa

The Thai LTR Visa is intended to bring wealthy, financially independent, high-potential foreigners to the Kingdom. It will be available to specialists, professionals, digital nomads, and retirees. Also, dependents of these individuals will be able to obtain the same visa. Dependents can include children under the age of 20 and spouses. Several governmental agencies have cooperated in the development of the new visa. The Ministry of Finance and the Board of Investment approved the new scheme, which is expected to stimulate more overseas investment in the country. Meanwhile, the Thai government hopes to attract one million qualified foreigners over the next five years. Before Cabinet approval of the new visa, the visa fee was set at 100,000 baht per applicant. However, it is expected to be cut down to 50,000 baht per applicant. Therefore, it will be easier for a large number of qualified immigrants to enter the country.

Many foreign nationals right now would hope for a travel destination that does not give you much stress and just rather relax and enjoy. But with COVID-19's presence, it would feel like it is impossible.

However, there is an option of where you can travel where there is no mandatory quarantine. Thailand is one of the top destinations in Southeast Asia that recently opened its borders and offered no quarantine to its visitors.

There are things that you should take note of before hopping on a plane:

1. Know that not any or random traveler is eligible for quarantine-free travel to Thailand.
2. Know that the Thai government still has requirements to enter Thailand.
3. Know that quarantine-free travel to Thailand does not mean you could just fly to Thailand and go to any place that you would love to visit. There are still guidelines to follow.

Test & Go: Quarantine-Free Entry Thailand

Know that not any random travelers have the privilege to have quarantine-free travel to Thailand. There are specific travelers of Thailand who are given the privilege to have a quarantine-free arrival.

To travel to Thailand and Stay Without Quarantine

Travelers who will travel by air from approved countries of Thailand must be fully vaccinated.

Here are the approved countries or low-risk countries by Thailand:

1. Australia
2. Austria
3. Bahrain
4. Belgium
5. Bhutan
6. Brunei Darussalam
7. Bulgaria
8. Cambodia
9. Canada
10. Chile
11. China
12. Croatia
13. Cyprus
14. Czech Republic
15. Denmark
16. Estonia
17. Finland
18. France
19. Germany
20. Greece
21. Hungary
22. Iceland
23. India
24. Indonesia
25. Ireland
26. Israel
27. Italy
28. Japan
29. Kuwait
30. Laos
31. Latvia
32. Lithuania
33. Luxembourg
34. Malaysia
35. Maldives
36. Malta
37. Mongolia
38. Myanmar
39. Nepal
40. The Netherlands
41. New Zealand
42. Norway
43. Oman
44. Philippines
45. Poland
46. ​​Portugal
47. Qatar
48. Romania
49. Saudi Arabia
50. Singapore
51. Slovak Republic
52. Slovenia
53. Sri Lanka
54. South Korea
55. Spain
56. Sweden
57. Switzerland
58. United Arab Emirates
59. United Kingdom
60. United States
61. Vietnam
62. Hong Kong
63. Taiwan

As mentioned earlier, to be granted quarantine-free or quarantine exemption upon arrival in Thailand, you must also fly from the approved country of yours to Thailand, and must be fully vaccinated (within 14 days before the travel date)

Requirements for a Quarantine-Free Travel to Thailand

Aside from offering quarantine-free travel to its vaccinated travelers from approved countries, the Thai government is also making it more convenient for its travelers to enter Thailand.

Here are the requirements for quarantine-free travel to Thailand:

Thailand Pass QR Code

Instead of applying for a Certificate of Entry, you will have to apply for Thailand Pass to receive a QR Code. This Thailand pass will require you to fill in the necessary details and upload documents digitally.

To know more about the new online system, read the Thailand Pass page.

Medical Certificate for COVID-19 Test Result or for Recovery from COVID-19

A medical certificate for a COVID-19 Test result is needed for you to travel to Thailand, you will need a negative result of the COVID-19 through the method of RT-PCR test. The result shall be issued only within 72 hours before your travel date.

A medical certificate for Recovery from COVID-19 is needed if you have shown a positive result from the COVID-19 before and you have recovered from it. The certificate for recovery result must indicate that they have recovered from COVID-19 within 3 months.

COVID-19 Insurance Policy

The required minimum coverage has decreased to $50,000 instead of $100,000. The insurance, like before, shall cover all COVID-19 related incidents in case you have contracted COVID-19 during your stay in Thailand.

You may get your COVID insurance policy here: https://u.axa.co.th/Sawasdee_Siamlegal

AQ Facilities or SHA+ Payment Confirmation

It is important to book approved hotels for safety during your stay in Thailand.

You will have to book the hotel for at least 1 night, and the payment of your booked hotel shall include an:

o   RT-PCR Test which will be used upon your arrival.

o   Antigen Test Kit (ATK), a self-test kit, which you will receive upon leaving your booked hotel for you to test yourself on the 6th or 7th day of your stay in Thailand. Or to test yourself once experiencing COVID-19 symptoms after leaving the booked hotel.

Vaccination Certificate

The vaccine must be approved vaccine by the Thai Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) or by the World Health Organization.

Children under the age of 12 do not have to be vaccinated but shall have parents or guardians that are vaccinated. A medical certificate with a negative result will be good.

Test Before Go or Test and Go

Know that quarantine-free travel to Thailand does not mean you could just fly to Thailand and go to any place that you would love to visit, there are still guidelines to follow.

To help you get an idea of what you should do as a traveler who is aiming to travel without quarantine in Thailand, here are the guidelines:

• Apply for a Thailand Pass and gather all the requirements that were mentioned above.
• Upon arrival in an international airport in Thailand, you will be subjected to entry, health screening, and immigration procedures. And you will submit all required documents mentioned above to staff or officials.
• After that, you will be transferred to your booked hotel. Upon arrival in the hotel, you will be tested for the COVID-19 RT-PCR test that was included in your prepayment and wait for at least a day.

While waiting, hotel staff will request you to download MorChana.

• If tested negative, that is when you are allowed to travel to other destinations in Thailand.

Upon leaving the hotel premises, they will give you an Antigen Test Kit (ATK), a self-test kit for you to use if you are experiencing symptoms or if not, you will use it on the 6th or 7th day of your stay in Thailand.

After using the ATK, the result shall be sent to or shown to the hotel staff that you once stayed and record the result on the MorChana App that you downloaded.

• If tested received a negative from the ATK, you can continue traveling to other destinations in Thailand.

Blue Zones for Unapproved Countries yet Vaccinated Travelers

Travelers who came from outside the listed approved countries are still allowed to enter the Thailand Blue Zones, but with mandatory quarantine.

Travelers entering the Blue Zones are only required to stay for 7 days and are given a wide option to choose where they want to stay.

The Blue Zones are provinces recognized as places that have completed at least 70% mass immunization and are ready to welcome international travelers.

Here is the list of Blue Zones that you can choose to stay in including the 4 Sandbox locations:

• Bangkok
• Krabi
• Chon Buri (Banglamung, Pattaya, Si Racha, Ko Si Chang, and Sattahip – Na Jomtien and Bang Sarey)
• Chiang Mai (Mueang, Doi Tao, Mae Rim, and Mae Taeng)
• Trat (Ko Chang)
• Buri Ram (Mueang)
• Prachuap Khiri Khan (Hua Hin and Nong Kae)
• Phang-Nga
• Phetchaburi (Cha-Am)
• Phuket
• Ranong (Ko Phayam)
• Rayong (Ko Samet)
• Loei (Chiang Khan)
• Samut Prakan (Suvarnabhumi Airport)
• Surat Thani (Ko Samui, Ko Pha-ngan, and Ko Tao)
• Nong Khai (Mueang, Sangkhom, Si Chiang Mai, and Tha Bo)
• Udon Thani (Mueang, Ban Dung, Kumphawapi, Na Yung, Nong Han, and Prachaksinlapakhom)

Alternative State Quarantine (ASQ) for the Unvaccinated

Those unvaccinated travelers are still allowed to enter Thailand but unfortunately, unlike the vaccinated travelers, they are subject to mandatory quarantine for 10 days or 14 days, if traveling by sea or land.

Thailand Open for All

By opening Thailand for all, regardless of the vaccination status, also means opening opportunities for Thailand to gain what was lost. The Thai authorities have high hopes in saving the economic downturn since the COVID-19 pandemic had started.

Traveling these days is not as easy as before, right? Travelers like you are subjected to more responsibilities, therefore, requiring you to exert more actions, and more effort to be able for you to have a successful trip to your destination.

It is highly suggested to please extend your patience with the travel procedures. And know that every country, including Thailand, is still in battle with the fight against COVID-19 and is doing its best to do so.

Please bear in mind that the additional requirements, responsibilities, procedures asked by the Thai authorities are implemented with the intention to keep the safety of the public health, both Thai nationals and foreign nationals entering the country.

It is understandable that the additional requirements, procedures, responsibilities to enter Thailand set by the Royal Thai Government may have caused some confusion to some travelers and this is the reason why we would like to do our best to guide you in how to have a successful trip to Thailand.

Before you Travel to Thailand

Before you travel to Thailand, there are some things that you will have to consider knowing and doing first. 

Check your Country's Travel Restrictions

Aside from being updated with the travel advisory of your travel destination, Thailand. You should keep yourself updated with the travel restrictions of your respective country. Check your local travel information whether it is okay for you to travel to Thailand or not.

Check Thailand's Travel Advisory

Are you from a country that is allowed to travel to Thailand? Lucky for you, Thailand, as of the moment, is open for travelers from countries all over the world. Yes! any of you who are reading this are allowed to enter Thailand. 

However, as mentioned earlier, patience is needed for it would not be that easy.

Check if you need a Valid Visa to Enter Thailand

If you are a non-Thai national but are a citizen from a Visa Exempted country then you are allowed to enter Thailand without a Thai tourist visa which will allow you to stay for a maximum of 45 days only. 

If ever that you are not from a visa-exempt country and you plan to stay in Thailand for more than 45 days, you will have to apply for a Thai tourist visa or other visas for other purposes that will allow you to stay for more than 45 days from the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulates located in your country.

Thai Visa applications can be done online. Note that not every citizen from every country can apply online, some countries may require you to apply for a Thai visa physically. So, please check if you are a citizen eligible to apply online.

Once issued a tourist visa or special tourist visa, and want to extend their stay in Thailand, they can visit any Thai immigration office once the traveler has already arrived in Thailand.

Check Entry Options in Thailand

Know that upon entry to Thailand, you will be subjected to stay in a secured area to make sure that you have not contracted COVID-19 during your trip, depending on your vaccination status. 

There are 2 options given by the Thai government:

Alternative Quarantine System/Hotel Quarantine

This option is available for both vaccinated and unvaccinated travelers.

This option will let travelers stay in a hotel room in a hotel establishment for 7 days (for vaccinated) or 10 days (for unvaccinated) or 14 days (for unvaccinated travelers traveling by land) for a mandatory quarantine.

Hotel Quarantine locations can be found at:

• Bangkok
• Buri Ram 
• Chiang Mai
• Chiang Rai
• Chon Buri
• Krabi Mukdahan
• Nakhon Nayok
• Phang Nga
• Phuket
• Prachin Buri
• Surat Thani
• Tak

Travelers will have to book ASQ Hotels if they have chosen this option, the hotel will take care of providing you food and necessities which will be at your expense. 

Sandbox Program

This option is only available for fully vaccinated travelers (except for children).

This option will let travelers stay, still, in a hotel room in a hotel establishment BUT, unlike the alternative quarantine, they will have the privilege to get out of the hotel premises and do any activity that they would like to do, as long as they are within the location of the Sandbox program.

Options of Locations of Sandbox program:

• Phuket Sandbox
• Krabi Sandbox
• Samui Sandbox
• Phang Nga Sandbox

Travelers will have to book SHA+ Hotels if they have chosen this option.

For less hassle and the best-guaranteed price hotel booking, book at Agoda.

SHA+ Hotels in Phuket: https://www.agoda.com/?cid=1892424

Check, Obtain and Prepare the Entry Requirements to Enter Thailand

What are the requirements to enter Thailand? Well, to make it easy for you, here is the list of the requirements that are needed for you to be able to enter the Kingdom of Thailand. Please take note.

1. Valid Thai Visa or Re-entry permit (except for Visa Exempted Countries)
2. Passport (with at least 6 months validity)
3. Confirmed Booked Flight to Thailand
   International Flights to Thailand are available, for easy flight booking to Thailand, you can book at Qatar Airways.
4. Confirmed Booked ASQ/SHA+ hotel and Confirmed payment for COVID-19 test during the stay at the hotel.
5. COVID-19 Insurance Certificate
   In purchasing your travel health insurance for COVID-19 or the COVID-19 insurance, please make sure that the coverage is at least THB 1.75 million ($50,000) which will cover:
   • Medical treatment expenses
   • Life insurance
   • Unexpected expenses relating to COVID-19 incidents
   Need help finding the insurance company with the best insurance policy for COVID-19? Choose the best, AXA.

6. Thailand Pass

   To obtain the Thailand Pass QR code, you will have to register and apply online. Choose among the 3 programs and fill out the form with the necessary details that were asked and upload the asked documents.

   Note that the documents to upload are the requirements from numbers 2 to 5. So, please make sure that you have already obtained the requirements from 2 to 5 to obtain the Thailand Pass QR code via email.

   To know more about the new system, visit the Thailand Pass page.

7. Medical Certificate that shows a laboratory result indicating that you are negative from a COVID-19 RT-PCR test. The result shall not be issued more than 72 hours before departure.
8. Certificate of Vaccination or Proof that you are vaccinated (especially if you are to choose the Sandbox Program)
9. T8 Form
10. Declaration Form
11. Installed ThailandPlus Application

You can get your COVID-19 Insurance here: https://u.axa.co.th/Sawasdee_Siamlegal

During your Travel to Thailand

On the day of your travel, please make sure that you have all the requirements listed brought with you. For easy access to the required documents, it is suggested for you prepare and organize them.

Also, please follow COVID-19 safety measures. It is advised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand to travelers entering the country to practice:

• Distancing
• Mask Wearing
• Hand Washing
• Temperature Checking
• Testing for COVID-19
• Alert Application

Arrival in Thailand

Upon arrival in Thailand, the travelers are subjects for health screening, and the 1st nasal RT-PCR test will also be done upon arrival. Children will be tested through saliva RT-PCR testing.

After the 1st RT-PCR test, the travelers will be transferred directly to their booked ASQ/SHA+ hotel where they will stay until their required days of stay is complete.

During your Stay in Thailand

You may wonder what will happen during your 7-day or 10-day or 14-day stay in the hotel or in the Sandbox. Well, in general, during your 0-1st day of stay in the hotel, you will wait for the result of the 1st RT-PCR test.

For Travelers who are staying through ASQ hotel

• If Negative Result- you will stay in your room while waiting for your required days of stay to be ending. Only on the 6th-7th day (for vaccinated travelers) or 9th-10th day (for unvaccinated travelers) or 13th-14th day (for unvaccinated travelers traveling through the land) will they have their 2nd RT-PCR test.
• If Positive Result- you will be transferred to a health care facility for COVID-19 medical treatment which will be covered by the purchased COVID-19 insurance.

For Travelers who are staying through the Sandbox program

• If Negative Result- you will be able to roam around outside the hotel premises or any locations inside the Sandbox location and do any activity you can do. Only on the 6th-7th day will they have their 2nd RT-PCR test.
• If Positive Result- you will be transferred to a health care facility for COVID-19 medical treatment which will be covered by the purchased COVID-19 insurance.

Note: Travelers are not allowed to transfer to a different hotel.

Completion of Required Days of Stay

After completing the required days of stay and receiving a negative result from their 2nd RT-PCR test, that will be the only time they are allowed to travel to different Thailand destinations. 

If the traveler decided that they will proceed to travel to different Thailand destinations, they will be given a "Release Form" which will serve as proof that they have completed their 7-day or 10-day, or 14-day stay.

If the traveler decided that they will proceed to go home to their country of origin or they will proceed to travel to other countries, they are still given a "Release Form". And is suggested to follow travel guidelines and advisory of the country that they will go home or the next country that they will travel to.