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Residence & citizenship

Thai Permanent Residence

The annual quota-limited route to a permanent residence permit for long-term visa holders who meet the qualifying criteria.

Expert reviewed Official guidance referenced

Under review — check current rules

Quotas, fees, the annual application window and qualifying period change year to year; confirm the current announcement on the Immigration Bureau site before publishing.

Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Thailand government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Residence permit (Permanent Residence)
Route type
Settlement
Administered by
Immigration Bureau / Immigration Commission
Quota
Official guidance cites a maximum of 100 persons per nationality per year (50 for stateless persons)
Application fees
Official guidance cites a 7,600 Baht non-refundable application fee and 191,400 Baht permit fee on approval
Application window
A defined annual period announced by the Immigration Bureau

Who it is for

  • Long-term residents who have held qualifying non-immigrant visas with annual extensions
  • Applicants qualifying through work/investment, family ties to a Thai national, or as experts/professionals

Requirements

  • Assessed on income, assets, professional knowledge and expertise
  • Relationship with a Thai citizen where relevant
  • National security, personality, health and understanding of the Thai language
  • Holding of the required prior non-immigrant status for the qualifying period

What you can do

  • Reside in Thailand permanently without needing to renew a visa each year
  • Hold a residence certificate and (with re-entry permit) travel in and out of Thailand
  • Provide a basis toward eligibility for later naturalisation, subject to separate rules

How to apply

  • Apply during the annual application window at the Immigration Division (Chaeng Wattana, Bangkok, or provincial offices)
  • Submit the required documents and pay the application fee
  • Attend interview/assessment by the Immigration Commission
  • Pay the permit fee if approved and collect the residence book/certificate

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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