Legal aspects of life in Thailand: visas, work permits and permanent residence

Thailand — is a popular destination for foreign investors and those looking for a comfortable place to stay. In this article, we will look at the main legal aspects of life in Thailand, including visas, work permits and permanent residence (PRES). This knowledge will help you better navigate local laws and successfully plan your investments, especially if you are considering purchasing foreign real estate.

Visas and work permits

Tourist visa
A tourist visa allows foreigners to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days, with the possibility of extension for another 30 days. This type of visa is suitable for short-term trips, familiarization with the real estate market and initial negotiations on the purchase of a home. The exact timing should be clarified depending on your citizenship

Business Visa (Non-Immigrant B)
A business visa is required to do business in Thailand. It is issued for 90 days with the possibility of extension up to 1 year. A business visa allows foreigners to start and manage businesses in Thailand, including real estate investments. The opening of a Thai company makes it possible to purchase real estate on the company’s balance sheet and obtain a work visa.

Work visa and work permit
Foreign citizens working in Thailand must have a work visa and work permit. A work visa (Non-Immigrant B) is issued on the basis of an employment contract and allows you to legally work in the country. The opening of a Thai company also provides the opportunity to obtain a work visa, which simplifies the process of legalizing residence.

Pension visa (Non-Immigrant OA)
The pension visa is intended for persons over 50 years of age who want to reside in Thailand permanently. The visa is issued for 1 year with the possibility of annual renewal. To obtain a pension visa, you must have sufficient financial resources or monthly income.

Long-term residence visa (Elite Visa)
Thai Elite Visa is provided for a period of 5 to 20 years and includes many privileges, such as multiple entry and exit from the country, and a green corridor at the airport. This visa is ideal for those considering long-term, high-income investments in Thai real estate.

Receipt of permanent residence

Permanent residence (PREM)
Obtaining permanent residence in Thailand is possible after continuous residence in the country for 3 years on a long-term visa. Benefits of permanent residence include

• Right to permanent residence and employment without the need to renew a visa.
• Possibility of purchasing property without restrictions.
• Eligibility for Thai citizenship through naturalization.

Conditions for obtaining permanent residence
To obtain permanent residence you must:

• Residence in Thailand for at least 3 years on a long-stay visa.
• Having a stable income or investment in real estate.
• Passing a security check and passing a Thai language proficiency exam.

Knowledge of legal aspects of life in Thailand, such as visas, work permits and permanent residence, allows you to effectively plan your investments and residence in this country. Purchasing overseas properties, especially in popular places like Phuket, offers many opportunities for high-income investments.

We, TOKENS Real Estate, will help you at all stages of the — transaction from site selection to legal support and paperwork. We offer both information and legal assistance to ensure that your investment in Thai real estate is as profitable and safe as possible.