Introducing the Platinum Membership: Your Ultimate Privilege Card in Thailand
Overview of the Platinum Membership
The Platinum Membership is designed for foreigners, digital nomads, and tourists who wish to stay in Thailand for an extended period. This 10-year visa is priced at 1,500,000 Thai Baht.
TPC has simplified its membership options by phasing out the eight Elite Visas and introducing four new “Thai Privilege Cards” packages, including the Platinum Membership. These packages aim to provide you with more choices and tailored privileges to suit different lifestyles.
Who is the Platinum Membership for?
The new visa will cater to four main groups: frequent international travelers/investors, working holiday/digital nomads, foreigners, and retirees.
While the previous versions of the Thai Elite Visa were no longer accepting new applications as of September, the new Thai Privilege Membership will start accepting applications from October 1, 2023, offering additional benefits and a privilege point system.
Benefits of the Platinum Membership
The Platinum Membership offers a range of exclusive benefits, including:
- Multiple entries to Thailand
- Unlimited use of Elite Personal Assistants (EPA)
- Unlimited use of dedicated immigration lanes (Suvarnabhumi, Chiang Mai, Phuket)
- Access to premium airport lounges in Bangkok (Suvarnabhumi), Phuket International Airport, and Chiang Mai International Airport
- Thai Privilege staff will assist you with the 90-day reporting
- Stylish chauffeur-driven car services
- Investment and wealth consultation
- Membership Service Center (MCC)
- Annual health check-up (once per membership year)
- Golf and spa privileges
- Discounts at restaurants and shops
- Special birthday gift (souvenir) from Thai Privilege Limited
- Buy one get one free movie tickets in Thailand
- One-night stay at Anantara Vacation Club in Thailand (for the first year of membership only)
- Buy one get one free meals at Mos Burger chain in Thailand every month
- Personal accident insurance (180 days, for the first year of membership only)
- Access to premium lounges, parking privileges, and shopping assistants (by appointment)
- Access to shared workspace in Thailand
- And other privileges, provided you have enough points to redeem them
How to Apply for Your Platinum Privilege Card
You can apply for the Platinum Membership starting from October 1, 2023. The application process does not require you to be in Thailand; you can apply from anywhere in the world. The application process will be similar to the previous Thai Elite Visa.
Application Submission
To apply, you will need the following documents:
- Signed application form
- Signed PDPA form
- Colored photocopy of your passport
- Photo with a white background
Background Check
During the application submission, a background check will be conducted. You must meet the following criteria:
- No previous bankruptcy declaration
- No imprisonment for criminal negligence
- Not declared mentally abnormal, incapacitated, or quasi-incapacitated
Membership Fee Payment
After passing the background check and receiving approval, you will receive a welcome letter from Thai Privilege. It will provide you with the next steps, the benefits of Platinum Membership, and instructions on how to make the payment.
You can make the payment through various methods, including:
- Credit card
- Bank transfer
- Cash
- Virtual currency
Obtaining the Visa
Once your application is approved, there are several ways to have the visa stamped in your passport. We will explain them below:
- Upon Arrival: When you arrive in Thailand, you will be able to obtain the visa stamp at one of the following airports:
- Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok
- Phuket International Airport
- Chiang Mai International Airport
- Thai Embassy or Consulate: You can have the visa sticker affixed to your passport by contacting the Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country and entrusting the consular officer with the task.
- Immigration Bureau: If you are already in Thailand, you can obtain the visa at the Immigration Bureau in Bangkok. If you need any assistance, you can make an appointment with the Thai Privilege Office or your trusted Thai Privilege Visa Agent.
Additional Considerations and Limitations
Working in Thailand
The Thai Privilege Visa, including the Platinum Privilege Card, falls under the tourist category of visas. You will not be allowed to work in Thailand, but digital nomads or individuals working for overseas companies are permitted.
To work or earn income in Thailand, you must have a valid work permit. This type of permit is not available with the Thai Elite Visa. If you are interested in finding employment or starting a business in Thailand, it is advisable to contact your Thai Privilege Agent to explore the various options for obtaining a work permit.
Countries Ineligible for Thai Privilege Card Application
Not every country is eligible to apply for the Thai Privilege Visa. Citizens of the following countries will not meet the application criteria:
Asia: North Korea, Afghanistan, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka
Africa: Central African Republic, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Guinea, Ghana, Liberia, Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Sierra Leone, Somalia, and Sudan
Middle East: Algeria, Iraq, Egypt, Iran, Lebanon, Libya, Palestine, Syria, and Yemen
Contacting the Agent
If you have any questions, concerns, or need assistance with applying for the Platinum Privilege Card, it is recommended to contact an agency such as Siam Legal or fill out the inquiry form on the right.
Conclusion
With the introduction of the Platinum Membership, Thailand offers an exclusive privilege card that caters to the needs of foreigners, digital nomads, and long-term tourists. The Platinum Membership provides a range of benefits and privileges, allowing members to stay in Thailand without the hassle of frequent visa runs. Whether you’re an investor, retiree, or someone seeking a new lifestyle, the Platinum Membership offers a gateway to a world of convenience and luxury in the Land of Smiles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for the Platinum Membership if I am already in Thailand?
Yes, you can apply for the Platinum Membership even if you are already in Thailand. You can visit the Thai Privilege Office or consult your trusted Thai Privilege Visa Agent for assistance with the application process.
2. Are there any age restrictions for the Platinum Membership?
No, there are no age restrictions for the Platinum Membership. It is open to individuals of all ages who meet the eligibility criteria.
3. Can I include family members in my Platinum Membership?
Yes, you can include family members such as your partner, parents, siblings, or children in your Platinum Membership. Each additional member will require an additional payment of 1,000,000 Thai Baht.
4. Can I use the Platinum Membership for business purposes?
No, the Platinum Membership is intended for tourism purposes only. If you wish to conduct business in Thailand, you will need to obtain the appropriate work permits and visas.
5. How long does it take to process the Platinum Membership application?
The processing time for the Platinum Membership application may vary. It typically takes several weeks to complete the background check and receive approval. It is advisable to submit your application well in advance to allow for any unforeseen delays.
