Given all the positive qualities of life in Thailand, including a low cost, yet high standard of living, many people want to reside here permanently. Obtaining the status of a permanent resident has many advantages. First, it allows you to live in Thailand indefinitely and legally (no more cumbersome visa runs), without having to apply for an extension of stay.
Secondly, as a permanent resident, you’ll be able to purchase a condo fairly easily, with your own name on the house registration document. Also, the permanent resident status makes getting a work permit easier, allows you to be the director of a Thai public company, and grants you the right to eventually
apply to be a naturalised Thai citizen. The latter requires holding permanent resident status for ten consecutive years. Moreover, the residency permit never expires, unless revoked.
All applications for permanent residency are processed by the Royal Thai Immigration Commission; the application period is usually from October to the end of December each year. There are annual quotas.
In order to apply, you must meet certain criteria, including the holding of a Thai non-immigrant visa for at least three years, with three consecutive annual extensions. You must also maintain this status at the time of application.
In addition, you must meet one of the following categories of eligibility: 1. Investment (make an investment of at least THB 3 million in Thailand); 2. Business; 3. Familial Support (be married to a Thai citizen or expat who already has a residency permit, or be the parent or guardian of a Thai child under 20 years in age); 4. Expert/Academic; and 5. Other categories determined by Thai Immigration. The required documentation for application will depend on the category under which the application is made.
Once your application is approved, you’ll be issued a residence blue book. You must register your place of residence in Thailand at your local municipal office and obtain a house card, and subsequently, a residence certificate. You can then apply for an alien book (red book) at the local police station, which is the equivalent of the Thai national ID card. You must re-register at the station every year.
