Is Permanent Residency in Thailand Right for You? >
If you’re considering a long-term stay in Thailand, Permanent Residency (PR) might be your best option, second only to Thai citizenship. PR provides unmatched stability for expats, offering a lifetime solution without the hassles of visa renewals or 90-day check-ins. It’s a significant step toward settling in Thailand permanently.
Why Pursue Permanent Residency?
Achieving PR means more than just staying in Thailand without frequent visa renewals—it’s a gateway to a more integrated life in the country. From purchasing property to enjoying streamlined bureaucratic processes, PR elevates your experience as an expat. However, it’s essential to understand the effort required to apply and the commitment needed to succeed.
While some may claim the process is overly complicated or unattainable, the truth is, with the right preparation and understanding, PR is a realistic goal. By meeting the eligibility requirements and carefully following the steps, you can increase your chances of success.
Who Should Apply for Permanent Residency?
PR is ideal for expats with long-term plans in Thailand. While there are various application categories, most applicants fall under the Employment category, which requires steady work history and contributions to the Thai tax system. If you’re on a non-working visa (e.g., Education, Thai Elite, or Tourist), you’ll need to transition to a work visa to become eligible. This can be done by securing employment or working through an Employer of Record (EoR) service like ThaiPivot, which manages compliance and administrative tasks, making the process hassle-free. ThaiPivot even provides PR consultations, guiding clients through the Permanent Residency roadmap.
Permanent Residency Eligibility Requirements
1
Work and Visa History
- Held a work permit and Non-Immigrant Visas for at least 3 consecutive years.
- Worked for your current employer for at least 1 year.
2
Income Thresholds
- Earned at least 80,000 THB per month for the past 2 years, or filed taxes on an annual income of 100,000 THB.
- If married to a Thai spouse, the income threshold is reduced to 30,000 THB per month.
3
Visa and Work Permit Sponsorship
Navigating immigration regulations can be a daunting task. ThaiPivot simplifies this by sponsoring your visa and guiding you through the work permit application process. With their expertise, you can live and work abroad legally while avoiding bureaucratic pitfalls.
4
Tax and Social Security Compliance
Tax mistakes in foreign countries can lead to serious legal and financial repercussions. ThaiPivot ensures compliance with local tax laws, organizes records, and handles social security payments accurately, saving you time and protecting your business from risks.
5
Payroll Processing
Managing international payroll is often complicated by currency conversions, bank fees, and diverse payment systems. ThaiPivot takes care of payroll processing, ensuring timely and accurate payments to employees. This includes managing payroll taxes, deductions, and returns, as well as issuing pay slips and offering a variety of payment methods tailored to employee preferences.
6
Employee Benefits
ThaiPivot partners with global benefits providers to deliver both mandatory and optional employee benefits. These may include:
- Health insurance
- Social insurance
- Unemployment insurance
- Sick leave
- Wellness programs
- Pension plans
By ensuring these benefits are compliant with local regulations, ThaiPivot helps you attract and retain top talent globally.
7
Relocation Assistance and Onboarding
Relocating to another country involves more than just paperwork. ThaiPivot supports employees every step of the way, from drafting contracts and obtaining signatures to collecting necessary documents and assisting with relocation logistics. Their onboarding services ensure your employees settle in quickly and comfortably.
Benefits of Permanent Residency
No need for annual visa renewals.
Skip the tedious check-ins at Immigration.
Buy a condo without transferring funds from abroad.
Access loans from banks and register assets in your name.
Serve as a director in public limited companies.
Further benefits
Faster processing and automatic extensions.
Use Thai counters at airports.
Register in a local “Tabien Baan” household book.
Act as a guarantor for others, including Thai nationals.
PR is a stepping stone to obtaining Thai citizenship.
The Application Process
1
Document Preparation
Gather essential documents, including:
- Application Form (TM.9)
- Personal information sheet
- Health certificate from a government hospital
- Salary certificate and employment history
2
Preliminary Review
Visit the Immigration Office in Bangkok (Chaengwattana) to ensure your documents are in order.
3
Submission
Submit your application early when the window opens (typically mid-year). Pay the 7,600 THB application fee.
4
Formal Interview
Attend a short interview with Immigration officials. Be prepared to answer questions in conversational Thai.
5
Processing
Your application is reviewed by the Ministry of Interior, which can take 18-20 months. Upon approval, you’ll pay the PR fee (191,400 THB or 95,700 THB if married to a Thai) and receive your Certificate of Residence.
Costs Breakdown
Application Fee: 7,600 THB
PR Fee: 191,400 THB
(or 95,700 THB for applicants married to a Thai national)
Frequently asked questions
Is PR difficult to get?
It depends on your qualifications. By meeting the requirements and excelling in areas like Thai language and cultural understanding, your chances improve significantly.
Do I need to speak Thai?
Fluency isn’t required, but basic conversational skills are essential for the interview.
Can I travel with PR?
Yes, but you must obtain a Re-Entry Permit before leaving Thailand to maintain your PR status.
Do I still need a work permit?
Yes, but obtaining one is much easier as a Permanent Resident.
Can ThaiPivot support me on the path to Permanent Residency (PR)?
Yes, PR can be applied after 3 years with a consistent work permit and meeting income or investment requirements.
Do you have more questions?