Frequently-Asked Question (FAQ)
What type of visa do I need for a long-term stay in Thailand?
It depends on the purpose and duration of your stay. Common options include Retirement Visa (Non-O, O-A, or O-X) for retirees, Work and Business Visa (Non-B) for employment or running a business, Elite Visa for long-term residency with VIP privileges, Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa for investors, retirees, and skilled professionals, Student Visa (Non-ED) for educational purposes, and Dependent Visa (Non-O) for family members of primary visa holders.
What is the financial requirement for a getting a visa in Thailand?
It depends on the type of visa you’re applying for and the consulate or embassy you are applying with. We will advise you accordingly based on your circumstances.
What is the Thailand Elite Visa, and how do I apply?
The Thailand Elite Visa is a long-term visa offering 5 to 20 years of residency with perks like fast-track airport services and visa-free entry. Applications are handled via the Thailand Privilege Card Program.
What is the difference between Permanent Residence and Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa?
Permanent Residence grants the right to live indefinitely without a visa, while the LTR Visa is a 10-year visa with special privileges but requires periodic reporting.
Can I convert my Tourist Visa to a Non-Immigrant Visa in Thailand?
In some cases, you can convert it at a Thai immigration office, but it’s often easier to apply for a Non-Immigrant Visa from your home country or a Thai consulate abroad.
What happens if I overstay my visa?
Overstaying incurs fines of THB 500 per day (up to THB 20,000) and can lead to a re-entry ban if the overstay is significant.
What is 90-day reporting, and who needs to do it?
Foreigners on long-term visas must report their address to immigration every 90 days. This can be done in person, by mail, or online.
What documents are required for a Non-B Visa?
Renewals are done at the immigration office and require updated documents, proof of continued eligibility, and applicable fees. Timelines vary by visa type.
Do I need professional help to apply for a visa in Thailand?
While it’s possible to handle the application yourself, the process can be time-consuming and complex, especially with frequent regulation changes. Visa Know How simplifies everything for you by handling the paperwork, ensuring compliance, and saving you from costly errors or delays.
How long does the visa application process usually take?
The timeline varies depending on the type of visa and your personal circumstances. For example, Non-B Visas can take 4–6 weeks, while Elite Visas may take 1–3 months. With Visa Know How’s support, we help you avoid unnecessary delays by ensuring your application is complete and meets all requirements upfront.
What if I’ve already started my visa application—can Visa Know How still help?
Absolutely! If you’ve already started the process but hit a roadblock or need expert guidance, our team can step in at any stage to review your documents, advise you on next steps, or liaise with immigration officials to resolve any issues.
Is it difficult to renew a visa in Thailand?
Renewing a visa can be tedious, with strict timelines and detailed documentation requirements. A single mistake can result in fines or even loss of status. Visa Know How handles the entire renewal process for you, ensuring you stay compliant and stress-free.
Do I need a work permit if I already have a Non-B Visa?
Yes, a work permit is mandatory if you’re employed or running a business in Thailand, even with a Non-B Visa. The application involves submitting documents to the Labor Department and meeting specific requirements. Visa Know How handles both the Non-B Visa and work permit processes, ensuring everything aligns smoothly.
What if immigration rejects my visa application?
Rejections can happen for several reasons, from incomplete documentation to eligibility issues. If your visa is denied, Visa Know How can assess the reasons for rejection, help you correct the issues, and guide you through reapplying with a stronger application.
Can Visa Know How assist with 90-day reporting and other immigration requirements?
Yes, we offer full support for 90-day reporting, re-entry permits, and visa renewals. By letting us handle these time-consuming tasks, you can focus on enjoying your time in Thailand without worrying about the bureaucratic side of things.
How can Visa Know How help if I want to switch visa types?
Switching visa types—such as moving from a Tourist Visa to a Non-B or Retirement Visa—can be tricky and often involves returning to your home country for reapplication. Visa Know How will assess your case and, where possible, offer solutions to minimize disruption and keep the process as smooth as possible.
Why choose Visa Know How over doing the application myself?
Our team has extensive knowledge of Thai immigration policies and regulations. We ensure your application is complete, accurate, and compliant, reducing the risk of delays or rejections. Most importantly, we save you time and provide peace of mind so you can focus on your plans in Thailand.