Visas are an essential part of relocating to Thailand, but the rules change frequently and the consequences of getting it wrong are real. This page gives you a working overview of the main visa types used in Chiang Mai. For detailed applications and current requirements, consult a specialist.
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Common Visa Types for Chiang Mai Residents
Tourist Visa (TR) -- 60 days
The standard entry visa for short-term stays. Valid 60 days from date of issue. Can be extended once for 30 additional days at an immigration office in Thailand. Good for initial arrivals while you sort out a longer-stay visa. Full Tourist Visa guide.
DTV -- Destination Thailand Visa
The 2026 headline visa for remote workers, digital nomads, and soft-power activities (language study, Muay Thai, cooking). 5-year validity, multi-entry, 180-day stays. Requires proof of 500,000 THB in savings. This is currently the most flexible long-stay option available. Full DTV guide.
Non-O Retirement Visa
For residents aged 50 and over. Requires 800,000 THB (~33,000 AUD as of 2026) in a Thai bank account, or a combination of income and savings meeting the threshold. Annual renewal. Full Retirement Visa guide.
ED Visa -- Education
Linked to enrolment at an approved school. Annual renewal tied to continued study. Popular via Thai language schools and CMU programs. The school's immigration compliance record matters enormously -- a school with problems at Immigration creates problems for its students. Full ED Visa guide.
LTR -- Long-Term Resident Visa
A 10-year visa with multiple categories: Wealthy Global Citizen, Wealthy Pensioner, Work-from-Thailand Professional, and Highly Skilled Professional. Premium requirements but the best long-term stability available. Full LTR guide.
Marriage Visa (Non-O based on marriage)
For those legally married to a Thai national. Annual renewal. Financial requirements apply. Full Marriage Visa guide.
Business Visa (Non-B)
For those employed by or operating a Thai-registered business. Requires a work permit alongside the visa. Full Business Visa guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I stay in Thailand without a visa?
Citizens of most Western countries currently receive 60 days visa-exempt entry, the scheme in place since July 2024. Thailand's Cabinet has approved a reduction to 30 days (15 days for some nationalities), but as of this update that change hasn't been published in the Royal Gazette yet, so 60 days remains standard. Always verify current exemption duration for your passport before travel.
Can I extend my visa in Thailand?
Tourist visas can be extended for 30 days at an immigration office. Other visa types have specific extension processes. Chiang Mai Immigration is currently at 71 M.3 Airport Road (Suthep) -- not Promenada.
What happens if I overstay my visa?
Fines of 500 THB per day up to a maximum of 20,000 THB. Overstays over 90 days trigger a ban from re-entering Thailand. Track your expiry date and act before it passes.
Which visa is best for digital nomads in 2026?
The DTV (Destination Thailand Visa) is currently the most flexible option. 5-year multi-entry, 180-day stays, covers remote work. The ED Visa is an alternative if you want to study Thai simultaneously.
Do I need a Thai bank account for a visa extension?
Retirement and some other visa types require funds held in a Thai bank account. Requirements vary by visa type and change periodically. Verify current requirements with immigration or a visa specialist before making banking arrangements.
Important
Visa rules change frequently. This page provides general information only. Always verify current requirements with official Thai Immigration sources or a professional visa consultant before making decisions. Information stated as of June 2026.