Choosing the right visa is one of the first practical decisions for anyone planning to live on Koh Samui long-term. Thailand offers several categories for foreigners — each with different requirements, restrictions and costs.

Thailand Elite Visa (Privileged Entry Visa)

A paid membership programme providing long-stay rights without employment. Managed by Thailand Privilege Card Co., Ltd.

Plans (2026):

  • 5 years: from 900,000 THB (~$24,000)
  • 10 years: from 1,500,000 THB (~$40,000)
  • 20 years: 2,500,000 THB (~$67,000)

Includes: annual extension stamp without leaving Thailand, immigration concierge at arrival, partner discounts. Does NOT include work permit, property freehold ownership or permanent residency.

Non-Immigrant B (Work Visa)

For those employed by a Thai or BOI-registered company, or company directors. Requires an employment letter or company documents. Initially 90 days, extendable to 1 year with a valid Work Permit. Requires 90-day reporting at the immigration office.

Non-Immigrant O (Retirement & Family)

Non-O-A (Retirement) — for those 50+. Requirements: proof of income ≥ from 65,000 THB/month OR from 800,000 THB in a Thai bank account. Mandatory health insurance (from 40,000 THB outpatient / from 400,000 THB inpatient). Valid 1 year, renewable.

Long-Term Resident Visa (LTR)

Launched 2022. 10-year visa (renewable) with four categories:

  • Wealthy Global Citizen — $500,000 investment in Thailand or $1M+ in assets
  • Wealthy Pensioner — passive income $80,000/year (or $40,000/year + $250,000 assets)
  • Work-from-Thailand Professional — income $80,000+/year, employer with $150M+ revenue or 5+ years in tech/finance. Ideal for remote workers at large international companies.
  • Highly Skilled Professional — specialists in targeted industries working with Thai or BOI companies

Advantages over Elite: work rights (WFT/HSP categories), tax exemption on foreign income (WFT, first 4 years), online 90-day reporting.

Practical Tips

  • All documents must be originals plus certified copies; apostille usually required
  • Samui Immigration Office is in Nathon
  • 90-day reporting can be done online via Thailand Immigration Bureau portal
  • Consult a Thai immigration lawyer before applying for Non-B or LTR