As of October 1, 2023, the renowned Thailand Elite long-term visa program has undergone a transformation and is now known as "Thailand Privilege." This rebranding aims to enhance the experience for visa program participants.
1. Cost Updates
Thankfully, the program's applicants need not worry about a significant spike in participation costs. While some price adjustments have been made, they are more moderate than feared. For instance, the cost of the most affordable option has increased from $18,000 to $24,000, which is not a twofold increase.
2. Reduced Participation Options
The number of participation options has been streamlined, reducing from seven to four. This simplification is designed to make the program more accessible and straightforward for potential participants.
3. New Points System
A noteworthy addition to the program is the introduction of a points system. Participants can accumulate points, which can then be exchanged for specific privileges or benefits.
Participation Options:
- Cheapest Option: Gold Card
- Price: THB 900,000 (Approx. USD 24,000)
- Validity: Visa for 5 years with the possibility of extending the stay by one year upon each entry
- Limitation: Family members cannot be added to the Basic plan
- Most Expensive Option: Reserve Card
- Price: THB 5 million (Approx. USD 137,600)
- Validity: Visa for 20 years or more
- Additional card cost: 2 million baht
- Restriction: Membership is by invitation only, and it's limited to a quota of 1% of total members per year (100 people)
The rebranded Thailand Privilege program continues to offer attractive options for long-term visas in Thailand. The range of choices, combined with the new points system, provides participants with flexibility and an opportunity to tailor their experience according to their preferences and requirements.
