If you’re planning a longer stay in Thailand beyond the typical 30-day visa, the 90-day visa Thailand is your best option. This visa allows you to stay in the Land of Smiles for up to 90 days and is an excellent alternative for those who need more than just a short tourist visit. Unlike a regular tourist visa, this visa grants you the flexibility to extend your stay or transition to a longer-term visa for specific purposes.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the 90-day visa Thailand, its requirements, application process, and how it can be extended to suit your long-term goals.

What is the 90-Day Visa Thailand?
The 90-day visa Thailand is a single-entry non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to stay in Thailand for up to 90 days. It’s ideal for those who plan to conduct business, visit family, or lay the groundwork for a longer-term stay in the country. This visa offers the flexibility to transition into other types of visas, such as the Non-Immigrant B Visa, Retirement Visa, or Spouse Visa, depending on your specific plans in Thailand.

One of the key advantages of the 90-day visa is that it can serve as a stepping stone toward acquiring a 1-year non-immigrant visa, allowing for even longer stays in Thailand without frequent border runs. With this visa in hand, you can explore business opportunities, retirement options, or simply enjoy a more extended stay in the country.

Types of Visas You Can Transition to After the 90-Day Visa
Once you’ve been granted your 90-day visa, you may want to extend your stay in Thailand by applying for a longer-term visa. Here are a few of the most common visa extensions:

Non-Immigrant B Visa (Business Visa): Ideal for those looking to work or invest in a business in Thailand.
Non-Immigrant O Visa (Retirement Visa): Designed for retirees aged 50 or older who want to make Thailand their permanent home.
Non-Immigrant O Visa (Spouse Visa): If you’re married to a Thai citizen, you can apply for this visa to stay longer in the country.
Requirements for the 90-Day Visa Thailand
Meeting the 90-day visa Thailand requirements is crucial to ensure a smooth application process. Below are the key requirements you need to fulfill:

General Requirements:
A valid passport with at least six months remaining before expiration.
Proof of financial stability, such as a bank statement or recent payslip, to demonstrate your ability to support yourself during your stay.
A copy of your travel itinerary, detailing your travel plans in Thailand.
Payment of the embassy or consulate fee, which varies by country.
Additional Requirements for Specific Visa Extensions:
Work Permit: If applying for a 90-day Non-B Visa for work purposes, you’ll need a valid work permit or documentation from your employer.
Retirement Visa (Non-Immigrant O): Applicants must be at least 50 years old and show a bank statement with a minimum balance of 800,000 THB or proof of a monthly income of at least 65,000 THB.
Marriage Visa (Non-Immigrant O): If you’re married to a Thai national, you’ll need to provide a Thai Marriage Certificate.
Important Note:
You must be physically present in the country where you’re applying for your Non-Immigrant Visa. For instance, if you’re a Canadian, you’ll need to apply at the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in Canada.

The 90-Day Thai Visa Application Process
Applying for the 90-day visa Thailand is straightforward as long as you prepare the necessary documents. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the application process:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Before you apply, make sure you have all the required documents in hand:

Valid passport with at least six months remaining.
Completed visa application form.
Financial proof, such as bank statements or payslips.
Travel itinerary or flight bookings.
Embassy fee payment (amount may vary depending on your home country).
Additional documentation, such as work permits or invitation letters, if applicable.
Step 2: Submit the Application
Once your documents are ready, submit them to the Royal Thai Consulate or Thai Embassy in your home country. Depending on the country, you can either mail the application or submit it in person.

Step 3: Pay the Visa Fees
Visa application fees will vary depending on where you apply. Payments can usually be made via cheque, cash, or debit card. Be sure to confirm the accepted payment methods with your local embassy.

Step 4: Wait for Approval
Processing times generally take between 5 to 10 business days, but this can vary depending on your location. Some applications may take longer, so it’s advisable to apply well ahead of your intended travel date.

Step 5: Collect Your Visa
Once your visa has been approved, you’ll be notified by the embassy or consulate. You can then collect your 90-day visa and prepare for your journey to Thailand!

Conditions and Restrictions of the 90-Day Visa Thailand
While the 90-day visa Thailand offers a flexible option for extended stays, there are a few key conditions you’ll need to follow:

Stay Duration: You are permitted to stay in Thailand for up to 90 consecutive days. If you plan to stay longer, you must apply for a visa extension before your 90 days expire.
Visa Extensions: You’ll need to meet all requirements for your desired extension type, such as a Retirement Visa or Spouse Visa, in order to be eligible to extend your visa for 1 year.
Overstay Penalties: Staying in Thailand beyond the 90-day period without renewing your visa can result in hefty fines and even bans from re-entering the country.
Extending Your Stay: How to Apply for a 1-Year Visa
If you want to stay in Thailand beyond 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a 1-year non-immigrant visa. This process can be initiated either while you’re in Thailand or from your home country, depending on the type of visa you are applying for.

For example:

If you’re applying for a Retirement Visa, you’ll need to show proof of financial stability, such as 800,000 THB in a Thai bank account.
If applying for a Spouse Visa, you’ll need to submit proof of marriage to a Thai national.
Once approved, the 1-year visa will allow you to stay in Thailand for an additional year, with the option to apply for multiple entries.

Conclusion: Ready to Apply for Your 90-Day Visa Thailand?
The 90-day visa Thailand is an excellent option for those looking to explore long-term opportunities in the country. Whether you’re planning to retire, work, or join a Thai spouse, the 90-day visa serves as an essential first step toward your goals.

If you need assistance navigating the visa application process or are unsure which visa category suits your situation, Visa Thailand Services is here to help. We offer expert advice and guidance to ensure your visa application goes smoothly. Contact us today and let us help you turn your dream of living in Thailand into a reality!