Thailand wants the rich to not just buy homes, but invest in high-end and tech sectors
The country is drumming up efforts with large scale international events and special visa scheme to boost foreign investment
Kobkarn Wattanavrangkul, Thailand’s tourism and sports minister, is on an economic mission – to draw high-net-worth individuals to the country not only to holiday, but also to live, invest and for retirement.
The drive is underscored by the Authority of Tourism’s series of large scale international events to boost the tourist dollar and its special visa scheme to allow foreigners to stay in the country for up to 20 years.
“Many foreigners already bought condominium units in Thailand. Bangkok is a popular location among them, and I have heard that foreign buyers are spreading to other provinces such as Chiang Mai, Phuket and Pattaya area,” Kobkarn said.
To capture more wealthy global citizens to live in Thailand, she said the country had made an aggressive push on extending its visa schemes, including allowing foreigners to live in the country for up to 20 years.
Since 2003, 4,800 special visas have been issued under its exclusive residence visa programme, Thailand Elite, which gives foreigners the right to live in the country for five to 20 years with a one-off fee of 500,000 Thai baht (US$15,000) to 2.14 million Thai baht. Out of the 4,800 “elite” visas, 1,200 were signed up this year.
The fee covers a concierge programme entitling members to VIP access to government agencies dealing with immigration, driving licences and work permits. Visa holders are also entitled to 24 golf and spa sessions a year and one annual health check at a local private hospital.
The increase in elite visas issued has coincided with rising tourist arrivals and spending in the country.