Answered7 years ago

What are the best visa options for long-term stays in Thailand?

Long-term Visa Thailand Visa Types Multiple Entry Tourist Visa NON-O Visa Elite Visa Student Visa

Jimmy ********

asked Dec 2, 2019

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Hey all,

Just seeking some advice, as I am unsure what visa types would be best for long-term stay in Thailand. 

As a general rule of thumb what would be the easiest visa to apply for prior to heading to Thailand? If so, what’s the pros and cons.

Answer summary

The discussion revolves around the best visa types for long-term stays in Thailand. Key options mentioned include the multiple entry tourist visa, which allows stays up to 90 days at a time and requires proof of sufficient funds; the NON-O visa intended for retirees; and the elite visa offering long-term residency benefits. The student visa was also highlighted as a viable long-term option, typically valid for one year at an estimated cost of 20,000 to 25,000 baht. Commenters advised choosing a visa that aligns with personal circumstances rather than merely opting for the easiest one.

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George *******

Student visa is given for one year cost around 20-25k baht.

7 years ago

Alan *******

What do you have in mind for “long-term“, and why? You should get the visa that conforms to your actual situation, not the one that is easiest.

7 years ago

Keith *********

@Alan ******

I tell everyone I talk to about coming to Thailand that if you are not sure how long your stay in Thailand will be then get the 6mth ME visa for $200. Easy!

7 years ago

Jai ******

Multiple entry visa it’s 6 months visa easiest if you have money.

You can stay up to 90 days at a time when you arrive you get 60 days then u extended it to 90 then leave after and return and get another 60 and extend again, to get the 6 month visa accepted you need an bank statement saying you have $8.000 in your bank the visa it self is not very expensive

7 years ago

Ivan ************

You can get almost 9 months out of it if you do the final entry at the end of the six months- the six months is validity for ENTRY, but you still get stamped in for 60 days (which you can extend by 30) even if you re-enter on the last day of the visa validity.

7 years ago

Jai ******

Yeah basically

7 years ago

Jimmy ********

@Jai *****

thanks for the response mate!

So in a nut shell you’re eligible to stay up to 90 days per time, however once you reach 60 days during that period you seek an extension of further 30 days? Once this is over you’ll have to leave the country then come back and obtain another extension. Just repeat until the cycle ends for 6 months?

7 years ago