The visa is issued for five years and extended for a further five if the holder still qualifies. Two of its four categories are relevant to most property buyers:
- Wealthy Global Citizen: at least USD 1 million in assets, with USD 500,000 invested in Thailand in government bonds, direct investment or property.
- Wealthy Pensioner: aged 50 or over with passive income of at least USD 80,000 a year, or USD 40,000 to USD 80,000 plus a USD 250,000 investment in Thailand.
All applicants need health insurance of at least USD 50,000 or an accepted alternative. Thai property can count towards the investment tests, but check with the Board of Investment how it must be held and evidenced.
Holders report their address once a year instead of every 90 days, need no re-entry permit and, in three categories, are exempt from Thai tax on overseas income. The criteria must be met for the life of the visa. See the Long-Term Resident visa or try the visa pathfinder.
