From May 2024 onwards, the Thai government has opened doors to apply for an EEC Visa in Thailand. This special type of long-term visa is for specialists, executives, and professionals planning to relocate to Thailand. Its purpose is to support the growth of specific industries in the country, including automation, robotics, aviation, logistics, and biochemicals. By providing these professionals with a long-term residency option, the EEC Visa aims to foster innovation and economic development in Thailand.
What is the EEC Visa in Thailand?
The EEC Visa program plans to draw professionals with specialized skills and experience to Thailand, particularly in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) region. This special economic zone, located on Thailand’s eastern seaboard, aims to attract qualified individuals to contribute to the development and growth of targeted industries within the region. The EEC encompasses three eastern provinces: Chachoengsao, Chonburi, and Rayong. The program plans the high-tech and industrial expansion of these three regions.
Duration and Details
The EEC Visa holds a 10-year validity. This long-term validity is made possible by the renewable 5-year multiple-entry permit system. This permit allows the holder to depart and enter Thailand multiple times without the need for repeated re-entry permit applications.
Note that the duration of stay in Thailand equals the length of the holder’s employment contract. Therefore, for a contract of one year, the visa and entry permit expires at the end of that contract. To remain in Thailand beyond that period, a different visa is applicable.
The ECC Visa comes with four categories:
- Specialists (EEC Visa “S”)
- Executives (EEC Visa “E”)
- Professionals (EEC Visa “P”)
- Spouses and Dependents (EEC Visa “O”)
Applying for an EEC work permit involves a one-time application fee of 20,000 THB. Whereas, maintenance of this visa requires an annual fee of 10,000 THB.
Benefits of Applying for the EEC Visa in Thailand
The EEC Visa not only enables the holder to stay in Thailand for ten years. Additionally, it provides several advantageous benefits as follows:
Reduced personal income tax rate
The flat tax rate of 17% is a significant advantage. It is because Thailand’s progressive income tax rates can reach as high as 35%.
Streamlined work permit processing
Holders benefit from the One-Stop Service Center in Thailand. This facility expedites work permit approvals and offers discounted fees.
Simplified online reporting
Holders are no longer required to submit in-person reports at the Thai immigration office. This makes the reporting process more convenient.
Priority access at international airports
Frequent travelers to and from Thailand enjoy an enhanced airport experience thanks to access to fast-track channels at international airports in the country.
EEC Visa Alternative: LTR Visa
Unlike the EEC Visa, which is limited to professionals working in the EEC, the Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa Thailand offers professionals the flexibility to work for companies anywhere in Thailand. It provides a 10-year stay in Thailand, a renewable 5-year multiple-entry permit, and includes comparable benefits to the EEC Visa. One unique advantage of the LTR Visa is that its validity is not tied to the holder’s employment duration.
Do you have questions about this long-term visa option? Contact us for professional assistance from our immigration specialists with any visa application in Thailand. Our experienced visa consultants in Thailand will provide comprehensive guidance throughout the application process, ensuring a smooth and efficient experience with minimal risk of delays or rejections. Email us at [email protected] to expedite your process to apply for an EEC Visa in Thailand.
