Permanent Residency Overview

This is the Permanent Residency overview for you if you are considering living in Thailand. Over the years many foreigners from all over the world often want to settle down in Thailand. This was mainly because of its exciting culture, stunning scenery, and friendly people. Now, let’s dive into what you need to know about getting permanent residency in Thailand.

Should you be thinking of  working in Thailand, then you will need to understand the laws in the country. Firstly find a reputable law firm in Bangkok such as ourselves to assist you with the red tape of obtaining your Thai work permit, Likewise you will also be ensuring that you comply with Thailand’s immigration rules. It makes no difference if you are a professional or a business looking to hire staff. 

Likewise as a  proficient law firm in Thailand we can also assist with obtaining a TAT license, this if you are considering starting a business in the tourism sector. Additionally, for those aiming for a more permanent presence, securing Thai residency is a significant step. Now as a well-established law firm in Thailand. Let us assist you with the Thai work permits, your TAT licenses as well as your residency application.

• You don’t have to keep applying to extend your visa every year.
• No more hassle of renewing your visa annually.
• After holding permanent residency for 5 years straight, you can even apply to become a Thai citizen.
• You can get your name on a house registration document.
• Buying a condo becomes easier without having to transfer money from abroad.
• Getting a work permit is a smoother process.
• You could become a director of a Thai public company.
• Plus, you can help your non-Thai family members get an extension of stay and permanent residency too.

Complete the application form accurately and sign it.

• Firstly you must submit copies of all pages of your passport.

• Secondly your should have held a non-immigrant visa for a minimum of 3 years before application.

• Thirdy ensure you keep track of your departure and arrival cards.

• Likewise provide details about your life and employment by filling out the personal data form.

• Obtain a recent health certificate from a hospital in Thailand to confirm your good health

• Likewise have evidence of your finances with bank statements, a bank confirmation letter, salary slips (if applicable), as well as your tax documents.

• In addition if you are applying based on employment, include your work permit and a letter from your employer outlining your role as well as your income.

Lastly note that each country is limited to 100 permanent residency grants in Thailand each year. The application window is usually open from October to December. Likewise ensure timely submission or wait until the following year. 

Cost of applying for permanent residency in Thailand

So we can look at the break down the costs of applying for permanent residency in Thailand:

Firstly, Application Fee: This application fee is ฿7,600, or about USD 240. This fee needs to be paid when you officially submit your residency application form. Note that this is non-refundable.

Secondly, the Permanent Residency Permit Fee: Should they approve your residency application. You will then to pay again to go further. It’s ฿191,400, which is about USD6,000. Note however that should you have a Thai wife or you’re under 20 with a parent. This being one who’s already a Thai citizen or has permanent residency. Then this fee drops to ฿95,700, or about USD 3,000.

Thirdly, these fees might change as of the time of writing, so double-check with Thai immigration or speak to us online for any updates. 

Can I start working immediately after getting PR status in Thailand?

So, even if you obtain Permanent Residency (PR) status in Thailand. You will still need to have a work permit to work legally in the country. Note that the PR status makes getting a work permit easier, but it doesn’t mean you can jump straight into work without one. Finally there is no right to work after getting your PR status unless you’ve already have a work permit. If you don’t have one, you need to apply for it after you’ve got your PR status granted.

How long does it take to get Thai citizenship after holding PR status?

Once you’ve had Permanent Residency (PR) status in Thailand for a period of five years, you can also then apply for Thai citizenship. Note however that to get Thai citizenship isn’t set in stone. It can change based on issues such as how long it takes to process your citizenship application. Likewise how complete your application is and how busy the department handling applications is. So, it’s wise to keep tabs on the latest timelines by checking with Thai immigration authorities or a Thai lawyer.

Let’s talk about the Points System, a way for Thai authorities to size up folks applying for Thai citizenship.

1. Scoring Criteria: To even be considered, you gotta hit at least 50 out of 100 points. Here’s how they divvy it up:

2. Applicant’s Qualifications (max 25 points):

· Age matters: If you’re between 40 and 50

· Education: If you have a Ph.D.

3. Job Security (25 points): They check how much money you’re making or how much you’re paying in taxes.

4. Time You’ve Been Registered (20 points).

5. Speaking Thai (15 points).

6. Knowing about Thailand (10 points).

7. Your Personality and Appearance (5 points).

Just remember, this is a basic rundown. The actual process might change, so it’s smart to talk with Thai immigration or a legal whiz for the latest scoop

What is the minimum score required to apply for Thai citizenship?

If you’re considering Thai citizenship through the Points-Based System. Likewise, you need to score at least 50 out of 100 points on this system. They consider many things such as your qualifications as well as your job stability. Likewise also how long you’ve been officially registered as well as  your Thai language skills. Finally they will as check your knowledge about Thailand. Your appearance will also be noted. 

Do you need to speak Thai for PR status?

Firstly for Permanent Residency (PR) in Thailand, you should have a basic grasp of the Thai language. Likewise during the PR application process, you’ll talk with an immigration officer in Thai. But don’t think to hard about it as you don’t need to be a language expert. As long as you can speak reasonable day to day Thai and answer the interview questions, you should be good to go. But remember, this is just a general guide.