Thailand Privilege Visa

The Thailand Privilege Visa, formerly known as the Thailand Elite Visa, is a government-sanctioned, long-term residency program offering foreign nationals extended stay in the Kingdom in exchange for a membership fee and compliance with immigration rules. This program is managed by Thailand Privilege Card Co., Ltd. (TPC), a wholly state-owned enterprise under the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).

The program provides non-immigrant PE visas with durations of 5, 10, 15, or 20 years, depending on membership tier, and includes lifestyle privileges such as airport fast-tracking, concierge services, and access to private lounges. Despite its conveniences, the visa does not confer work rights, permanent residency, or citizenship eligibility.

This article offers a comprehensive legal and procedural analysis of the Thailand Privilege Visa, covering its administrative framework, visa conditions, membership categories, immigration compliance obligations, and tax implications.

1. Legal and Administrative Framework

1.1 Governing Body

• Thailand Privilege Card Co., Ltd. (TPC)

  • Wholly owned by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT)

  • Operates under Cabinet resolutions and Ministry of Interior oversight

1.2 Legal Basis

• Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979)

• Visa issued under Non-Immigrant Visa Type “PE” (Privilege Entry)

• Additional regulation by:

  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs

  • Bureau of Immigration

  • Revenue Department (for tax residents)

2. Visa Type and Characteristics

3. Membership Tiers and Privileges (2024–2025)

Thailand Privilege now offers four primary membership tiers, each with different durations, prices, and privileges. All packages are structured around “privilege points”, which can be used for services such as airport transport, health check-ups, golf, spas, and immigration assistance.

3.1 GOLD Membership

• Price: THB 900,000 (one-time fee)

• Visa Duration: 5 years

• Privilege Points: 20/year

• Spouse/Family Inclusion: ❌ Not available

3.2 PLATINUM Membership

• Price: THB 1.5 million (main) + THB 1 million per dependent

• Visa Duration: 10 years (2 x 5-year renewals)

• Privilege Points: 35/year

• Family Add-On: ✅

3.3 DIAMOND Membership

• Price: THB 2.5 million + THB 1.5 million per dependent

• Visa Duration: 15 years (3 x 5-year renewals)

• Privilege Points: 55/year

3.4 RESERVE Membership (by invitation only)

• Price: THB 5 million

• Visa Duration: 20 years

• Exclusive Privileges: Premium concierge, luxury event invitations, investment access

4. Immigration Benefits and Limitations

✅ Key Benefits

• Fast-track immigration at major airports

• Dedicated concierge and liaison officers

• Multiple re-entry without additional permit

• Assistance with:

  • 90-day reporting

  • Visa re-stamping

  • Address registration

❌ Legal Limitations

• No work rights (subject to Alien Working Act)

• Cannot own land

• Does not lead to permanent residency or Thai citizenship

• Membership and visa can be revoked for:

  • Criminal conduct

  • Immigration violations

  • National security concerns

  • Misrepresentation in application

5. Eligibility and Application Procedure

5.1 Eligibility

• No minimum age (except for family add-ons)

• Clean criminal background in Thailand and country of residence

• Not previously blacklisted or overstayed Thai visa

• Must be able to pay membership fee and sustain lifestyle

5.2 Application Process

1. Submit application through TPC or authorized agent

2. Background check by Thai Immigration Bureau and related agencies

3. Upon approval:

   • Pay membership fee in full

   • Receive digital welcome letter and member ID

4. Visa affixation:

   • At Thai Embassy abroad, or

   • At Bangkok Immigration Division 1 (if already in Thailand)

Membership card and visa documents are issued post-stamping.

6. Compliance Obligations

6.1 90-Day Reporting

• Mandatory for all foreigners staying >90 days

• Can be completed:

  • In-person at immigration

  • Via agent with POA

  • Online (if system functional)

6.2 Address Notification

• Landlords or hosts must file TM30 Form when hosting a foreigner

• Members must file TM28 Form upon changing residence

6.3 Re-Entry and Visa Renewal

• Member must exit/re-enter or renew their 1-year visa stamp annually

• TPC offers liaison service to assist with renewals

7. Tax Implications and Reporting Duties

Thailand Privilege Visa holders are subject to Thai tax law if they qualify as tax residents, defined as individuals who stay 180+ days in a calendar year.

7.1 Tax Residency

• Required to file personal income tax returns (PND 90 or 91)

• Must report:

  • Thai-sourced income

  • Foreign-sourced income if remitted into Thailand

7.2 2024 Rule on Foreign Income

Under a new Revenue Department regulation (effective 1 January 2024):

• Foreign income remitted to Thailand in the same year it was earned is taxable

• Includes:

  • Offshore salaries

  • Dividends

  • Pension income

  • Capital gains

Retirees, digital nomads, and offshore investors should seek tax advice if planning to remit funds into Thailand.

8. Visa Cancellation and Legal Remedies

Visa and membership may be cancelled without refund if the member:

• Commits a crime (including visa overstay)

• Submits forged or misleading documents

• Violates Thai immigration or work laws

• Engages in actions harmful to national interest

Cancellation Process:

• Notice issued by TPC or Immigration Bureau

• Visa invalidated and entry revoked

• Member may file a petition or appeal if error occurred

9. Comparison with Other Long-Stay Options

10. Conclusion

The Thailand Privilege Visa is a unique hybrid between a residency solution and a lifestyle membership program, offering long-term stay without the complexities of typical visa renewals. It caters to wealthy individuals, retirees, digital nomads, and business travelers who seek convenience, service, and flexibility—provided they do not intend to work or pursue permanent residency.

Applicants should understand the legal boundaries of the visa, especially regarding employment, taxation, and renewal obligations. When managed correctly, the Thailand Privilege Visa can offer a legally secure, long-term living arrangement in one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic countries.