90-Day Visa Thailand

90-Day Visa Thailand. The term “90-Day Visa” in Thailand often refers to non-immigrant visas that initially grant a stay of up to 90 days. These visas are commonly used by foreigners entering Thailand for purposes such as business, education, family visits, or official duties. While the term is informal, it usually refers to the Non-Immigrant Visa (single-entry) under Thai immigration law.

1. Legal Framework

The 90-Day Visa is regulated under the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979) and relevant ministerial regulations issued by the Thai Immigration Bureau and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). Key sections include:

Section 12 — Conditions for alien entry into Thailand.
Section 35–37 — Authority of immigration officers to grant, extend, or cancel visas.
Ministerial Regulations — Stipulate types of visas, allowed purposes, and permitted length of stay.

2. Types of 90-Day Visas

2.1 Non-Immigrant Visa “B” (Business)

For conducting business, attending meetings, or employment (with subsequent work permit application).

2.2 Non-Immigrant Visa “ED” (Education)

For studying at recognized institutions or attending training programs.

2.3 Non-Immigrant Visa “O” (Others)

Covers a wide range of purposes, such as visiting Thai family members, medical treatment, or volunteering.

2.4 Non-Immigrant Visa “M” (Media)

For foreign journalists or media representatives.

2.5 Official and Diplomatic Visas

For government or international organization assignments.

3. Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must typically:

Have a valid passport with at least 6 months’ validity.
Demonstrate a legitimate purpose consistent with the visa category.
Show proof of financial means (often at least 20,000 THB for single applicants or 40,000 THB for families).
Provide evidence of onward or return travel.
Satisfy health and security requirements (no prohibited diseases, no criminal convictions that make entry inadmissible).

4. Application Process

4.1 Application Location

Applications are usually made at a Thai embassy or consulate outside Thailand.
In some cases, foreigners already in Thailand on another visa may apply for a change of visa status at the Immigration Bureau.

4.2 Required Documents

Completed visa application form (TM.87 for initial entry).
Passport and photocopies.
Recent passport-sized photographs (usually 4×6 cm).
Supporting documents depending on visa category (e.g., company invitation letter, school enrollment certificate, marriage certificate).
Proof of funds.
Visa fee (varies by embassy; single-entry non-immigrant visas are often around 2,000 THB equivalent).

4.3 Processing Time

Typically 2–5 working days, but may vary depending on the embassy and nationality.

5. Upon Arrival in Thailand

Immigration officers issue an entry stamp specifying the permitted stay — generally 90 days from the date of entry. The visa sticker itself does not determine the length of stay; the entry stamp is the controlling document.

6. Extensions of Stay

6.1 Legal Basis

Extensions are granted under Section 35 of the Immigration Act and related regulations.

6.2 Common Grounds for Extension

Transition to a long-term visa (e.g., one-year extension based on employment, retirement, or marriage).
Humanitarian reasons.
Pending application for residence or other status.

6.3 Procedure

Submit TM.7 (Application for Extension of Temporary Stay) to the Immigration Bureau before the permitted stay expires.
Provide supporting documentation for the requested extension.
Pay the extension fee (1,900 THB as of current regulations).

Extensions are not automatic — approval depends on compliance with the relevant criteria.

7. Overstays and Penalties

Overstaying a visa is a violation of Section 81 of the Immigration Act and may result in:

Fine of 500 THB per day (up to 20,000 THB).
Possible blacklisting for repeated or excessive overstays:
- Overstay > 90 days: 1-year ban.
- Overstay > 1 year: 3-year ban.
- Overstay > 3 years: 5-year ban.
- Overstay > 5 years: 10-year ban.

Overstaying also negatively affects future visa applications.

8. 90-Day Reporting vs. 90-Day Visa

A common confusion is between the 90-Day Visa and 90-Day Reporting:

90-Day Visa — Refers to an initial 90-day permitted stay.
90-Day Reporting — Obligation for foreigners staying in Thailand for 90 consecutive days to notify Immigration of their address (TM.47 form). This is a separate requirement and applies regardless of visa type if the stay exceeds 90 days continuously.

9. Real-World Case Examples

Case 1 — Business Visa to Work Permit
A German engineer entered on a 90-day Non-Immigrant B Visa to begin work at a Thai manufacturing plant. Within the 90 days, the employer obtained a work permit and supported a one-year extension of stay based on employment, avoiding the need to exit Thailand.

Case 2 — Education Visa Compliance
An Australian student entered with a 90-day Non-Immigrant ED Visa to study Thai language. The school submitted proper attendance records, enabling Immigration to grant a one-year extension tied to the academic program.

Case 3 — Misunderstanding of 90-Day Reporting
A retiree on a one-year extension believed the 90-day visa requirement did not apply to him. He failed to file his TM.47 address report after 90 days and was fined 2,000 THB upon renewal.

10. Practical Considerations

Plan Ahead — If you intend to convert your visa to a long-term stay, begin the extension process at least 30 days before expiration.
Category Consistency — Ensure your activities match the visa type; working on a Non-Immigrant ED Visa, for example, is prohibited.
Multiple-Entry Planning — If you need to leave and re-enter Thailand within the 90-day period, consider obtaining a multiple-entry visa or a re-entry permit.
Documentation Accuracy — Immigration officers may reject applications for inconsistencies between your purpose of stay and supporting documents.

11. Key Legal References

Immigration Act B.E. 2522 — Sections 12, 35–37, 81.
Ministerial Regulations — Categories of non-immigrant visas and permitted lengths of stay.
Immigration Bureau Orders — Criteria for extensions and reporting requirements.

Conclusion

The “90-Day Visa” in Thailand is not a formal legal category but an informal term for non-immigrant visas granting a 90-day initial stay. Understanding the legal framework, permitted activities, extension procedures, and compliance requirements is essential to avoid overstays, penalties, or visa cancellations. With proper planning and documentation, a 90-day visa can serve as a stepping stone to longer-term residency or specialized visa categories.