Legal Stay in Thailand: Visa Types & Tips

Last updated: 8 May 2025

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How to Legally Stay in Thailand: Visa Types and Requirements

Thailand is a beautiful country that attracts millions of foreign visitors each year. Whether you're here for vacation, retirement, business, or to be with family, it's important to understand the visa options available and how to stay in the country legally.

Common Visa Types for Foreigners in Thailand

Tourist Visa (TR)

Valid for 60 days (extendable for 30 more days)
Not allowed to work
Popular for short-term visitors

Non-Immigrant Visa (Category "O", "B", "ED", etc.)

O for retirement, marriage, or staying with Thai family
B for business and employment
ED for studying or training
Usually valid for 90 days, but extendable

Elite Visa

Long-term visa (520 years) with special privileges
Requires membership fee starting from 600,000 THB

Retirement Visa (O-A, O-X)

For persons aged 50+
Must show financial evidence (800,000 THB in Thai bank or monthly income of 65,000 THB)
Renewable annually

Visa Extensions

Most long-term visas can be extended at the Thai Immigration Office.

Application fee: 1,900 THB
Required documents: passport, TM.7 form, photo, proof of address, and financial proof

️ Important Reminders

Overstay: Staying after your visa expires is illegal and leads to fines or bans
Work without a permit: Even volunteer work may require permission
90-Day Report: Long-term visa holders must report their address every 90 days (can be done online, by mail, or in person)

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