19/08/2025
Visa Options for Foreigners Under 50 in Thailand
1. Tourist Visa (or Visa Exemption)
Visa Exemption/Visa on Arrival: Nationals of certain countries (now up to 93) can enter Thailand visa-free for tourism or short business stays of up to 60 days, extendable by an additional 30 days at immigration within Thailand.
Tourist Visa (TR): For other nationalities, you can apply prior to arrival. Single-entry visas typically allow a 60-day stay and can be extended once for 30 days (standard fee ~1,900 THB).
2. Non-Immigrant Visas (Depending on Purpose)
These Non-Immigrant visas (types: B, ED, O, EX, R, RS, M, F, IM/IB, etc.) allow longer stays—but only if you meet the relevant purpose and document requirements.
Non-Immigrant B ("Business/Work"): For business travel, employment, or investment. A work permit is required if you plan to work. Typically issued for 90 days initially and extendable to 1 year.
Non-Immigrant ED ("Education"): For formal study, workshops, or internships. Usually starts with a 90-day visa, extendable for the duration of the course.
Non-Immigrant O ("Family, Medical, Other"): Various valid reasons like visiting family, accompanying someone for work/study, medical treatment, acting as a sports coach, legal witness, etc.—not for retirement unless aged 50+.
Special Visas:
EX ("Expert"): For skilled professionals invited to work in Thailand.
R ("Religious"): For missionary or religious activities.
RS ("Research/Scholar"): For training or research in local institutes.
M ("Media"): For media professionals like journalists or film crews.
F ("Official"): For official government duties.
IM/IB ("Investment"): For investors under Thai investment promotion schemes.
3. Smart Visa (for Highly Skilled/Startups)
Targeted at professionals, entrepreneurs, investors, and researchers in priority industries. Valid up to 4 years, with no separate work permit required, and special benefits like family access and simplified reporting.
4. Digital Nomad–Style: “Destination Thailand Visa” (DTV)
Recently proposed or introduced: Aimed at remote workers—allows stays of up to 180 days per entry, with a 5-year visa (renewable once). Fee estimated at 10,000 THB.⏳ Implementation details may still be evolving, and official policy clarity is pending.
Summary Table (Under Age 50)
Purpose / Need Visa Options Available
Tourism : Short Visit Visa Exemption (60 days ±30 extension), Tourist Visa (TR)
Work / Business : Non-Immigrant B (with work permit), Smart Visa (for qualified professionals)
Study : Education Non-Immigrant ED
Media : Journalism Non-Immigrant M
Religious : Activities Non-Immigrant R
Research : Teaching Non-Immigrant RS
Expert : Specialist Work Non-Immigrant EX
Investment : Non-Immigrant IM / IB
Official Duties : Non-Immigrant F
Digital Nomad : Remote Work Proposed Destination Thailand : Visa (DTV)
