Thailand offers a range of visa options catering to different needs, with two prominent choices being the Thailand Privilege Card (formerly known as Thailand Elite Visa) and the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV). Both visas are designed for long-term stays but cater to different demographics and offer distinct benefits. This article compares these two visas to help you determine which one suits your needs best.
Overview
Thailand Privilege Card
The Thailand Privilege Card is targeted at high-income individuals, retirees, investors, businesspeople, and families seeking a long-term stay in Thailand with luxurious benefits. Managed by Thailand Privilege Card Co. Ltd, it offers from 5 years up to 20 years of residency along with VIP treatment and exclusive services.
Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)
The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is designed for digital nomads and remote workers who are employed by international companies. It allows them to live in Thailand for extended periods without requiring local employment, thus fostering tourism and attracting professionals who work online.
Requirements and Main Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Thailand Privilege Visa | Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) |
|---|---|---|
| Validity | Uninterruptable stay for up to 20 years. (5-year increments) | Up to 5 years (180 days per entry) |
| Target Audience | High-income individuals, retirees, investors, business people, and families | Digital nomads, freelancers, and remote workers |
| Visa Fee | THB 900,000 to THB 5,000,000 (varies by package) | THB 10,000 |
| Financial Evidence | None | No less than THB 500,000 |
| Extension Of Stay | Not applicable (renewal after each period) | 1 time per each entry period not exceeding 180 days. After the maximum stay of 180 days + 180 days, DTV holders are required to leave Thailand and can re-enter with the same DTV visa within the visa validity date. |
| VIP Airport Services | Yes, including VIP greeting, airport lounges, fast-track services, and airport transfers | No |
| Personal Assistance | Yes, Elite Personal Liaison for 90-day reporting and government concierge | No |
| Recreational Benefits | Access to spas, golf courses, excursions, fitness gyms, and more | No |
| Investment Opportunities | Yes, can open bank accounts, buy shares, invest in real estate, and secure a driver’s license | No |
| Health Insurance | Optional | Optional |
| Multiple Entries | Yes | Yes |
| Family Inclusion | Yes, spouses and children under 20 | Yes, spouses and children under 20 |
| Tax Exemptions | Foreign income is tax-exempt for stays up to 180 days. As a tax resident, you can transfer up to 20 million THB to a family member and 10 million THB to non-family members tax-free, according to Section 42 of the new tax law. | Exempt from foreign income tax for up to 180 days per stay |
| Eligibility Criteria | Legal foreign passport, no deportation or overstay record, not on UN Sanction List | At least 20 years old, financial stability (minimum balance of 500,000 THB), proof of employment with a registered company |
| Work Permit | Not allowed | Not allowed (unless switching to local employment visa) |
Detailed Requirements and Benefits
Thailand Privilege Visa
Requirements:
- Legal foreign passport with at least six months validity.
- No deportation or overstay record.
- Not on UN Sanction List.
- Membership fee depending on package (THB 900,000 to THB 5,000,000).
Documents Needed:
- A photocopy of the personal details section of your passport.
- A high-resolution scanned copy of any valid ID.
- A duly filled out application form.
- A duly-filled out Personal Data Policy Form. Download the form here.
Main Benefits:
- Long-term multiple entry visa: Up to 20 years with options for 5, 10, 15, or 20-year memberships.
- VIP Services: Includes VIP airport services, personal assistance for 90-day reporting, and government concierge services.
- Recreational Access: Exclusive access to spas, golf courses, fitness gyms, and more.
- Investment Ease: Members can open bank accounts, invest in real estate, and secure driver’s licenses.
- Health Benefits: Optional health insurance and free annual health checks.
- Travel Benefits: Free domestic flights and special travel arrangements for higher-tier members.
Cons:
- High membership costs.
- Does not allow for securing a work permit in Thailand.
- Membership is generally non-transferable (except for Reserve Membership).
- Does not lead to permanent residency.
Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)
Requirements:
- Minimum age of 20 years.
- Financial stability with a minimum balance of THB 500,000 .
- Proof of employment with a registered international company.
- Visa fee of THB 10,000 and extension fee of THB 10,000 for an additional 180 days.
Documents Needed:
- Passport or Travel Document
- Document indicating current location
- Financial evidence amount of no less than THB 500,000 e.g. bank statement, payslip, sponsorship letter.
- Purpose of Visit:
- Workcation: Employment contract or employment certificate outside of Thailand or professional portfolio showcasing digital nomad, remote worker, foreign talent, or freelancer status.
- Activities: Proof of confirmation to attend the activity or letter of appointment from hospital /medical center
- Spouse and dependent children: Proof of relationship to the DTV visa holder, e.g. copy of marriage certificate/ birth certificate/ certificate of adoption.
Main Benefits:
- Valid for up to 5 years with 180-day stays per entry, extendable by another 180 days.
- Multiple entry visa, catering to digital nomads with international commitments.
- Spouses and children under 20 can join the primary visa holder.
- No tax on foreign income for up to 180 days per stay.
Cons:
- Cannot work for local Thai companies without switching to a different visa.
- Requires extensions every 180 days, adding administrative tasks.
- Requires leaving the country.
- Lacks VIP services and recreational benefits compared to the Thailand Privilege Visa.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Thailand Privilege Card and the Destination Thailand Visa depends on your specific needs and lifestyle. If you are a high-income individual, retiree, or investor seeking luxurious benefits and uninterruptable stay, the Thailand Privilege Card is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you are a digital nomad or remote worker looking for flexibility and extended stays without local employment, the Destination Thailand Visa offers a more straightforward and cost-effective option.
For more information and personalized advice, consult with an immigration expert.