Red Quarter Thai

Which visa should I choose to live or invest in Thailand?
Buying real estate in Thailand does not automatically entitle you to a long-stay visa. If you plan to live there or manage an investment, it is essential to choose a visa that is right for you.

Here is a roundup of the main visas available to foreigners who want to settle or invest in Thailand.

Tourist Visa (TR or Visa Exemption)
This is the basic visa for temporary stays.

Duration: 30 to 60 days (renewable once).

Objective: holidays, real estate scouting, short stays.

❌ Not suitable for living or investing in the long term.

Retirement Visa (O or OA)
Intended for people over 50 years old, this visa is popular among retired expats.

Duration: 1 year (renewable).

Conditions:

Monthly income of approximately 65,000 THB, or

Minimum bank deposit of 800,000 THB.

❌ Prohibition to work.

✅ Interesting if you want to buy a condo to live in peacefully.

Elite Visa (Thailand Elite)
This premium visa offers simplified and fast access, with several advantages.

Duration: from 5 to 20 years.

Price: from 600,000 THB.

Benefits:

VIP welcome at the airport,

Help with opening an account, getting a driver’s license, etc.

No proof of income.

✅ Ideal for wealthy investors or affluent nomads who want a visa without constraints.

Business visa (B) and work
permit If you want to start a business or buy through a company, this visa is the most suitable.

Requires a work permit issued by your company in Thailand.

The company must have minimal capital and employ Thai workers.

You can receive income legally.

✅ This is the recommended visa for those who buy through a commercial structure (e.g. hotel, coworking, seasonal rental).

Investor Visa (Non-Immigrant IB or BOI)
Awarded to foreigners who invest in government-backed sectors (via the BOI – Board of Investment).

Investment conditions: from 10 million THB.

Often allows you to own 100% of the shares of a company.

✅ Ideal if you want to invest in industrial or strategic projects.

Student Visa (ED)
You can get a long-term visa by enrolling in a Thai language school, cooking school, or a local university.

Duration: 6 to 12 months (renewable).

Can be a good springboard to settle down gradually.

❌ Not allowed to work.

Conclusion: The visa, a key element of your project
Your choice of visa depends on your age, your budget, your real estate project, and the length of your stay. It is essential to be well informed, or even to consult an immigration specialist or a lawyer to ensure the best option.