Which visa should you choose to move to Thailand?

A true paradise, Thailand is a country that continues to attract many Westerners. Its cultural diversity, heavenly beaches, lush landscapes, and tropical climate are just some of its many assets. In recent years, it has become a popular destination for expatriates. To relocate there, having a visa is necessary. Which one should you apply for? Find out everything in the rest of this article.

Relocating to Thailand: Which Visa Should You Apply For?

Thailand is known for its legendary hospitality. To this day, it remains one of the most welcoming countries in the world. Every year, it opens its doors to thousands of immigrants. If you wish to live in this country, you can apply for a Non-Immigrant B visa, a Non-Immigrant ED visa, or the Elite Visa.

Non-Immigrant B and ED Visas

Non-Immigrant B and ED visas are intended for foreigners on business assignments, those wishing to study, those looking to work, or those planning to relocate to Thailand. These visas allow a single entry into the country for a period of 90 days. If you leave Thailand during this period, your visa will be cancelled. You will therefore need to apply again in order to be allowed back into the country.

Please note that it is possible to extend these visas later on. For those who wish to work in Thailand, it will be necessary to apply for a work permit upon arrival in order to obtain a long-term visa.

The Elite Visa

Do you want to relocate to Thailand for a long period of time? The Elite Visa may be the right option for you. This authorization allows you to stay in the country for several years. Its validity can be 5 years, 10 years, or 20 years, depending on the option chosen. Unlike the Non-Immigrant B and ED visas, this visa allows multiple entries and exits from the country. It is also relatively easy to obtain. It is one of the best solutions for staying in Thailand long term.

The Elite Visa also comes with several benefits. For example, you may enjoy hotel upgrades or VIP services. It is also possible to receive benefits in restaurants or attractive discounts in shopping malls.

To obtain these different visas quickly and efficiently, it is recommended to work with a relocation and visa agency in Thailand. You will only need to provide the essential documents, and these experts will take care of the administrative process for you.

Relocating to Thailand: Which Cities Should You Consider?

In Thailand, many cities are suitable for expatriation. However, if you want to meet other expatriates, some regions are more suitable than others.

Bangkok

As the capital of Thailand, Bangkok attracts a large number of expatriates. If you want to live in a major urban area, this is one of the best places to choose. The city’s popularity is due to the wide range of amenities it offers. Shopping malls, restaurants, hotels, hospitals, tourist attractions, green spaces — Bangkok has everything needed to support the well-being of its residents. Here, it is also possible to meet many other expatriates, especially French expatriates. As a result, you will not feel completely out of place.

Chiang Mai 

Chiang Mai is a beautiful city ideally located in the mountains of northern Thailand. Nicknamed “Little Switzerland” or “the Rose of the North,” this region is known for its incredible landscapes, museums that tell the story of the country’s past, and Buddhist temples. It is also appreciated for being more affordable. To rent a 40 m² apartment in the city center, you should expect to pay around 150 euros. This is a real advantage for young students wishing to continue their studies in Thailand.

Phuket

A favorite destination for tourists, Phuket is also home to many expatriates. It is perfect for those looking for an exotic, peaceful, and refreshing city. Wooded hills, white sandy beaches, lush forests, and limestone cliffs are some of the defining features of this region. Phuket also offers many amenities that make everyday life easier for residents. Airport, modern hospitals, designer boutiques, shopping malls — everything you need will be available.

In addition, the cost of living is also very low. In terms of housing, the offers in this city are attractive and affordable. For a three-room apartment in a modern building, you should expect to pay around 200 euros per month in rent.

Relocating to Thailand: When Is the Best Time to Move?

The Thai climate is very pleasant and mild. With an average temperature of 28 °C, it feels like being on holiday all year round. You can travel to Thailand between November and March to enjoy the sunshine and warm weather. However, during this period, the air is relatively dry. If you would rather enjoy a hot and humid climate upon arrival, April and May are perfect months. From June to October, it is the rainy season. It is generally not recommended to travel during this period.