Thailand Elite Card Winning The Battle Of Long Stay Visas

In the history of Thai immigration, neither any long-stay visa has been as successful as the Thailand Elite Visa. The pandemic has shown a rising market for “affluent” tourists and their families seeking a second residence in Thailand. In 2021, sales to Chinese citizens increased by about 200%, representing one-third of the 22,000 Elite Visa members.  Americans and British nationals are among the top 5.  Other Elite visa options include multiple-entry periods of 5 to 20 years for a one-time fee which starts at 600,000 baht, or around $16,500 USD. After the payment, it is not required to show or submit any proof of income and bank statements.

Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Governor Yuthasak Supasorn said that despite the global energy crisis and inflation, luxury clients continue to come and spend. He added that the popularity of the Elite Visa comes from the simplicity of the application process, the absence of an insurance requirement, and the different kinds of Elite Visa packages.

The primary competitor of Elite Visa is the Long Term Residence (LTR) visa program, which offers digital nomads, wealthy retirees, executives, and investors a 10-year stay in Thailand in exchange for investments in the country. The program is governed by the Board of Investment (BOI), whose marketing techniques seem outdated in contrast. In addition, the Thai Cabinet has revoked the proposed eligibility to purchase freehold property. The primary benefits of an LTR Visa are reduced income tax rate for professionals and a work permit. Although BOI has yet to disclose any statistics since its September 2022 debut, it is reported that the adoption rate has been modest.

Thailand continues to attract long-term foreign tourists. A 10-year visa for retirees was presented in 2017 but needed to garner more support.  The permanent residency program is popular but is tightly limited by quotas and requires considerable proof of economic contribution to Thailand. Attempts to prolong retiree visas and visa extensions for foreigners with Thai spouses or dependents beyond one year at a time have also stalled. Meanwhile, membership in the Elite card is anticipated to rise over the following two years.  Simply speaking, Thailand Elite provides less hassle stay compared to other Thai visas.

SOURCE: Pattaya Mail

Stay in Thailand with your family for 5 years or up to 20 years with Thailand Elite Visa.  This visa has been created to make your long-term stay in Thailand hassle-free and convenient.  For more information, CLICK HERE.