Why do foreigners choose Thailand for living and investing?

Long-term visas and the Thailand Elite program

Foreigners are increasingly opting for long-term visas in Thailand, wishing to work, run a business, or enjoy life in retirement. Each year, the number of people looking to participate in the Thailand Elite program is growing.

Economic changes in Thailand

Over the past forty years, Thailand's economy has undergone significant transformations. Previously considered a developing country, it has now taken its place among highly developed nations. This change is attributed to effective management, which has led to a substantial reduction in the poverty level.

Industries such as the following are developing:

• agriculture
• healthcare
• the manufacturing sector, including technology and the automotive industry
• jewelry making

In terms of GDP growth rates, Thailand ranks third among Asian countries, trailing only behind China and Indonesia. It is particularly interesting that the country's economy shows a high degree of independence from imports.

The industry accounts for 44.5% of the total economy, and about 14% of the working-age population is employed in it. Additionally, tourism contributes 17% to the country's GDP, and the number of foreign tourists wishing to visit Thailand is increasing every year.

Tourism in Thailand

For example, in 1967, the country was visited by only 400,000 tourists, while in 2016 this number reached 32.5 million! In 2017, the number of Russians who visited Thailand exceeded 1.3 million, which is 23% more than the previous year and ten times more than in 2008.

Investing in real estate

Due to the increase in tourist traffic, the Thai government has begun actively developing the tourist infrastructure in popular destinations, which has led to a rapid growth in the real estate sector. Foreigners interested in investing in this area can expect decent profits from both rental income and the future sale of properties.

However, when considering the purchase of real estate in Thailand, it is important to take into account some nuances:

• Foreigners can only own 49% of a specific real estate property.
• The remaining 51% should belong to local residents or legal entities.

At first, this arrangement may seem disadvantageous, but there is a way to bypass this limitation — by purchasing property in apartment buildings. In this case, the entire complex is considered as a whole, where foreigners can acquire 49% of all apartments, while 51% remain with locals.

Legal aspects of real estate ownership

According to the laws of the country, foreign citizens have the right to own 49% of apartments in full ownership, while 51% can be leased by local residents for a period of up to 90 years.

In practice, this scheme provides formal ownership rights, while investors have full control over their property: they have the right to sell, rent, or pass it on as an inheritance.Moreover, such apartments often cost 10-20% less, which makes this model particularly attractive to investors.

Villas and their features

As for villas, foreign buyers can fully own the house, while the land is leased for a period of 90 years. Phuket remains the most popular resort for real estate buyers in Thailand, attracting many foreign investments to the region.

The potential of real estate on the island

Real estate experts are highlighting the significant potential of this island for further development, and investments in real estate here could prove to be quite profitable. The price of apartments in this area starts from $40,000 to $45,000, and the process of finalizing a deal does not take much time.

Living conditions and rental opportunities

Considering the relatively low cost of living, you can not only rent out your property but also use it for your own residence for a certain period of time. It would also be helpful to discuss the financial conditions of living in Thailand.

Tourist visas

As for tourist visas, the rules for obtaining them can vary depending on the country of which you are a citizen. For example, Russians can visit the country without any issues and stay here for 30 days — for this, a special stamp is placed in the passport upon crossing the border, which is provided upon arrival at the airport or on land.

Ukrainian citizens, on the other hand, are allowed to stay here for only 15 days, and they need to pay about 30 dollars to get a stamp at the airport. Belarusians, however, do not have any privileges and must obtain a visa in advance for their trip.

Types of visas

The visa policy for visitors is almost the same for all foreigners:

• The most common type is a single-entry visa, valid for three months, which allows a stay in the country for up to 90 days.
• However, the maximum period that one can stay in the territory of the state is 30 days.
• If during this time there is a need to leave the country, you should contact the immigration office to obtain a re-entry permit, which will provide additional time for travel to another country for up to 30 days.
• There is also a double-entry visa, which is valid for six months and allows you to stay in Thailand for 60 days, with the possibility of extending this period for another 60 days after contacting the immigration office.

Obtaining a residence permit

If you want to stay in the country for an extended period, it's worth considering obtaining a residence permit. There are many ways to achieve this. One option is to secure a job, which can be valid for a period of one to three years. However, such a visa only allows foreigners to occupy positions that are not available to local residents.

Available professions and legalization

For example, positions such as salespeople, waiters, cooks, or guides cannot be held by foreigners, except in cases where it concerns their own businesses. A complete list of professions available to foreigners can be explored on specialized platforms. The most accessible professions include:

• Teaching English language
• Realtor's work
• Journalist on the internet
• IT specialists
• Translators
• Employees of international corporations

Business registration

Additionally, to obtain a work permit, it is possible to register your own business or purchase an existing company. This allows you to bypass the same rules that apply when buying real estate: foreigners can only own 49% of the company's shares, while the remaining 51% must be owned by Thai citizens.

This measure protects the interests of local residents.and ensures that the business remains under Thai control. Thus, for those planning to actively work and develop in the country, there are many opportunities to legalize their stay through employment or their own entrepreneurship.

Legal aspects and starting a business

In most cases, issues related to legal rights are quickly resolved through special agencies, often just a formality. One positive aspect is that there is no requirement for a minimum share capital. However, starting a business may require an amount within3000-5000 dollarsexcluding additional expenses related to its management.

Pension conditions in Thailand

When discussing retirement in Thailand, it should be noted that in50 yearsIn this country, what is considered the retirement age becomes eligible for an annual residence visa. The main requirement for obtaining it is having sufficient funds for independent living of at least25,000 dollars.

Educational opportunities

As for educational opportunities in Thailand, there are two main areas of focus:

• Teaching children.
• Getting an education for oneself.

In the case of children's education, an annual visa is issued for both the child and the parents, with the possibility of extension without leaving the country. Another option includes obtaining education in various institutions, from language courses to universities. There are no age restrictions, and both options are less costly compared to alternatives, requiring...2500 to 8500 dollars a yeardepending on the chosen educational institution and the age of the student. For example, language courses can cost as little as700 to 1500 dollars.

It's important to remember that local authorities pay close attention to adults who wish to stay in the country for an extended period, such as for language study. Therefore, if you have decided to extend your visa, be prepared for a conversation in Thai or English to discuss your learning achievements.

Marriage to a citizen of Thailand

Marriage to a Thai citizen can serve as a basis for obtaining a residence permit. Afterfive yearsIn a joint life, one can apply for citizenship. However, it is worth noting that it is significantly easier for foreign women to obtain a residence permit in such situations than for men. If a foreigner decides to marry a Thai woman, he is required to provide proof of income, which must be at least1200 US dollars per monthor have at least in an account in a Thai bank12,000 dollars.

Investments as a way to obtain residency.

Investing in a country's economy is one of the most costly, yet at the same time, one of the most reliable ways to obtain residency. To do this, it is necessary to invest a minimum of300,000 dollarswhat can be done through:

• Real estate purchase.
• Opening a bank deposit.
• Acquisition of government securities.

The visa issued for this reason will be valid from3 to 12 monthswith the possibility of extension, but does not grant the right to legal employment.

Thailand Elite Program

The Thailand Elite program is popular among foreigners. Since its launch in2003It offers the opportunity to obtain a VIP card and a long-term visa for a period of5 to 20 yearswith investments starting from15,000 dollars.Depending on the contribution amount, there are different program levels that can be found on specialized websites.

Developer projects in Vietnam

It should also be noted that currently Vietnamese developers are actively implementing large-scale projects, making the country attractive both for investors and for those seeking new living opportunities.

Buying real estate in Vietnam

Purchasing real estate in Vietnam does not guarantee automatic permanent residency status for foreign citizens. Although Vietnam's economy is classified as developing, it shows positive trends and attracts significant volumes of foreign investment. According to statistics, the number of tourists visiting the country has increased by 42% over the past year. In major cities, infrastructure is actively developing: new medical facilities are being built and language schools are opening. Foreigners are actively establishing their companies in the country, leading to an increase in job opportunities. According to World Bank forecasts, Vietnam's GDP growth rate by 2019 is expected to exceed the growth rate of China's economy.

Profitable investments in real estate

Investing in real estate in Vietnam is an attractive opportunity. The cost of housing in the country has been rapidly increasing over the past few years, with growth rates of about 3-7% annually. Rental yields range from 9 to 10% per year. Investors have the option to purchase apartments during the construction phase and then resell them at higher prices upon completion, which can lead to significant financial gains. In Nha Trang, there is the possibility to conduct transactions remotely through notarized powers of attorney. Housing prices in this region remain quite competitive within the context of Southeast Asia, with properties available starting from $40,000 to $45,000, which significantly boosts interest from foreign investors.

The housing market in Ho Chi Minh City

In Ho Chi Minh City, there is currently an active growth in the housing market, where builders are creating numerous modern residential complexes aimed at foreign buyers. This creates excellent conditions for considering investments in real estate within the country. Previously, there were many restrictions for foreigners in the Vietnamese housing market; however, since July 1, 2015, a new law has been enacted that allows foreigners in the country on a tourist visa to purchase property for 50 years, with the possibility of extending the contract for the same period. Foreign owners can freely manage their property, including selling, renting, mortgaging, or inheriting it.

Visa requirements for foreign citizens

If your plans do not involve a long-term stay in Vietnam, a tourist visa valid for one to three months will be sufficient, which can be either single-entry or multiple-entry. Additionally, citizens of certain countries have the option of visa-free entry for up to 15 days. After this period, you can extend your visa for a similar duration. However, if you plan to stay in the country for more than six months, you should consider obtaining a residence permit.

The process of obtaining a residence permit

The process of obtaining a residence permit in Vietnam is not as simple as it may seem at first glance. The country is governed by the Communist Party, which is cautious and distrustful of foreigners wishing to stay for an extended period. Amid the growing interest of foreign investors, the Vietnamese real estate market continues to expand, opening new horizons for profitable investments. However, it is crucial to thoroughly prepare for the process of obtaining all the necessary documents and to study local legislation in detail, which will ensure the success and safety of your investments.

Conclusion

Utilizing the opportunities offered by the housing market in Vietnam can be a wise decision for many foreign investors.

Job opportunities in Vietnam

It is known that there are no limits to opportunities, and the main task is to choose the right path to employment. The country has many job openings that require minimal qualifications, while there is a shortage of qualified specialists with experience and relevant education.

In light of the current industrialization, professions such as miners, oil workers, and metallurgists are particularly relevant. There is a clear need for engineers, pharmacists, chemists, as well as specialists in shipbuilding.

Work for non-residents

Moreover, there is the possibility of finding work as a translator or service staff in establishments aimed at Russian-speaking and English-speaking audiences. International companies are actively operating in the Vietnamese market, where knowledge of the local language is not a mandatory requirement. Candidates for job vacancies must meet certain conditions, such as having good health and no criminal record.

Hiring practices

Vietnamese enterprises have the right to hire foreign specialists for up to three months without special permits.

Poverty level and literacy

As of 2015, the poverty rate in Indonesia is only 11.2%, and literacy among the population has nearly reached 99%. The country is implementing a large-scale development program scheduled from 2005 to 2025, organized in a "five-year plan" format. Currently, local authorities are paying special attention to improving infrastructure in critical areas such as education and healthcare.

Real estate prices

In the real estate sector, there has been a sharp increase in residential property prices in Indonesia in recent years. This phenomenon is attributed to the growing interest from foreign investors. However, as with Thailand and Vietnam, purchasing property does not automatically grant the right to a permanent residency visa. It is important to note that the conditions for foreign citizens are significantly stricter than for local residents.

Options for property ownership for foreigners

Foreigners can take advantage of several schemes for property ownership:

• how to use— "right of use". A foreigner receives a certificate confirming their right to owned property and land for a period of 30 years, with the possibility of extending it for 20 and 30 years. To obtain hak pakai, a work visa and permanent residency in the country are required.
• copyright— "unconditional ownership" (freehold). Full ownership rights can only belong to Indonesian citizens. Foreigners can bypass this rule by entering into a credit agreement with a local citizen. However, the actual owner remains the Indonesian.
• hak sewa— "leasehold". It allows for the signing of a long-term lease agreement that is notarized.
• how to use— "right to build". This option is intended for companies engaged in construction within the country.

The cost of real estate and rental yield

The minimum cost of purchasing property in Indonesia ranges from $53,880 to $359,200, depending on the region. As for rental yields, they fluctuate between 8% and 10% per year.

Visa policy

Now let's consider the issue of visa arrangements. For citizens of several countries, Indonesia offers the possibility of visa-free entry for tourism purposes. For example:

• Russians,
• Ukrainians,
• Belarusians

They can stay in the country without a visa for 30 days, receiving the appropriate stamp in their passport upon arrival. If a longer stay is planned, a one-month visa is required, which can be obtained at the airport and then extended for another 30 days. Additionally, there are social visas, for which a sponsorship letter is required.

Obtaining a visa for residence in Indonesia

To obtain a residence permit in Indonesia, you can seek help from acquaintances who have already settled in the country, or from the landlords of the apartment you plan to rent.

A residence visa can be either single-entry or multiple-entry. A single-entry visa is valid for six months and allows you to stay in the country for up to 60 days, with the possibility of extending it for a maximum of four months, with each extension lasting one month.

A multiple-entry visa is granted for a period of one year, during which you can leave and return to the country an unlimited number of times, provided that your continuous stay does not exceed two months in a row.

Alternative ways to obtain a residence permit

If a one-year single-entry visa doesn't work for you, there are other options for obtaining a residence permit in this exotic country. One of the popular ways is to obtain a work visa.KITAS.

Legalization of workIt is a mandatory step for both employees and business owners. If you attempt to bypass the legalization process, you risk facing deportation and a ban on entering the country for up to five years, as well as a fine that can reach up to $2,000.

The process of obtaining a KITAS work visa

Work visaKITASIt is issued strictly for a specific employer and grants the right to work only under the conditions specified in the application.

The procedure for reviewing applications for foreign workers in Indonesia is significantly simplified compared to European countries, as employers do not need to prove your irreplaceability.

• Usually, the entire process takes about three to four days.
• However, the entire visa application process can take several months.

Requirements for foreign specialists

It should be noted that according to local requirements, a foreign specialist must be highly qualified, which implies having the appropriate education and/or at least five years of experience in their field.

Nevertheless, finding a job in sectors such as:

• education
• medicine
• tourism
• automobile manufacturing

It's not that difficult in Indonesia.

Conditions of residence with a KITAS visa

VisaKITASIt is issued for a period of two years, but you are required to pay for the extension of the permit every month, which can ultimately cost you more than $2000 for the entire duration of the visa.

This type of visa is also available for:

• investors
• spouses of Indonesian citizens
• repatriates
• scientists
• students

Special visas for retirees

There is a visa available for retirees over 55 years old.BOOKwhich requires the applicant to have a certain level of financial stability.

Migration to Malaysia

As for Malaysia, there are several simplified programs available for obtaining a work visa, especially for skilled professionals. There are also programs for investors.

The country is demonstrating a stable economic situation.

• The poverty level is only 0.6%.
• Unemployment is at a level of 3-4%.
• The literacy rate reaches 98.4%.

In Malaysia, there is a solid middle class, a well-developed communication and telecommunications infrastructure, and the economic growth rate remains at 5-6% per year due to strong domestic demand.

Economic structure of the country

In the country's economic landscape, the service sector dominates, accounting for approximately 56% of the total volume. The manufacturing sector makes up 35%, while agriculture represents only a small portion.

Local authorities are actively working to attract foreign investors, aiming to create favorable conditions for business initiatives. However, in some key sectors such as telecommunications, financial services, transport infrastructure, and the oil and gas industry, there are restrictions for foreign investors. This includes limitations on the percentage of share ownership.

Despite this, the country firmly maintains its position among those with the most extensive and developed financial systems.

Real estate for foreign investors

Real estate in Malaysia presents a unique opportunity for international investors, as this country is the only one in Southeast Asia where foreigners can fully own property without any time restrictions. The exceptions are Singapore and, under certain conditions, Thailand.

However, there are certain conditions for obtaining full ownership rights, related to a minimum price threshold that varies by region. For example:

• For holders of the MM2H visa, the minimum investment amount ranges from $86,000 to $740,000 in various states.
• In Kedas, there are no minimum requirements, while for other foreign citizens, this amount starts at $98,500.
• In Selangor, the minimum cost of housing can reach 740,000 dollars.

Mortgage programs and conditions for investors

Currently, there is a favorable mortgage program for foreigners in the country, which, combined with positive trends in the market, significantly increases the attractiveness of real estate purchases. Local authorities are actively attracting foreign investors to the housing market.

Foreigners have the opportunity to choose any types of residential properties; however, there are restrictions on purchasing real estate in certain segments, as well as those located on lands designated exclusively for Malaysian citizens.

The acquisition process can take place through full ownership.freeholdboth through long-term rentalleaseholdthat can last up to 99 years. Interestingly, a foreign owner cannot sell the property within the first three years after its acquisition.

Rental property yield

As for rental yields, in the long term, they can range from 7 to 10% per year, making real estate investments in Malaysia quite attractive and profitable.

Visa-free entry into the country

The visa-free entry system in Malaysia is similar to that of other countries in the Asian region and allows citizens of Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine to stay in the country for up to 30 days. Upon arrival at the international airport, a free stamp is automatically placed in the passport, confirming the right to temporary stay.

If a long-term visit is planned, it is necessary to obtain a two-month visa in advance at the consulate, which can then be extended for another two months while already in the country.

Opportunities for residency

For those considering the possibility of moving, there are various ways to obtain residency. For example, one can consider employment options, which open the doors to obtaining permanent residency.

Opportunities for highly skilled foreign professionals in Malaysia

In Malaysia, there are numerous opportunities for highly qualified foreign specialists; however, certain requirements and conditions must be taken into account. First of all, it is worth noting that the age limit for applicants is 27 years, and having at least three years of professional experience significantly increases the chances of employment.

There is a steady interest in specialists in various fields in the country, such as:

• medicine
• pedagogy
• information technology (IT)
• engineering disciplines
• tourism, including the exploration of hydrocarbon resources

For IT experts, the age requirement is 23 years, and two years of professional experience are needed.Knowledge of the English languageIt should be at a high level, as it is the language of communication in a multicultural country like Malaysia.

Visa aspects

As for visa aspects, visas are available for foreign workers for a duration of three to five years.It's important to rememberIn the case of changing employers, it will be necessary to go through the process of obtaining a new visa, which can be done without leaving the country.

Education in Malaysia

The educational opportunities are also quite diverse. The education system in Malaysia is accessible to both foreign citizens and their children. When enrolling in a local university, it is important to consider that the tuition fees can range from $5,000 to $6,000 annually. If there are questions about international education for a child, attending an international school will cost around $1,500 to $3,000.

In both cases, the visa is granted for a year with the possibility of extension. Additionally, there are language study programs where the course lasts three months and costs an average of 800 dollars, resulting in a six-month visa.

Starting a business

Starting a business can also be an attractive option, although it requires significant investments. The costs for registering a business can reach around $400, while the minimum authorized capital to start a business will be at least $40,000 per person.

ImportantIt is mandatory to have a Malaysian citizen on the board of directors, except for IT companies where full foreign management is allowed. This provides the opportunity to avoid paying taxes for several years and simplifies the visa application process for employees.

Offshore companies

For those looking to start an offshore business, there is an opportunity to register a company in Labuan, which allows for a visa valid for two years. This scheme significantly saves money: the registration fee is approximately $2,500, while the visa for the director costs $1,000, and family members only need to pay $300 for their visas.

Family matters

Those who plan to start a family should pay attention to some important aspects. Only a woman who marries a Malaysian citizen can obtain Malaysian citizenship. If the marriage is with a Malaysian woman, the foreign spouse is only entitled to a long-term visa.

HoweverIn the event of a divorce within two years of marriage, a woman may lose her citizenship. Some women may face the option of renouncing their passport from their home country and possibly converting to Islam, given the predominance of this religion in the country.

The program "My Second Home"

The "My Second Home" (MM2H) program offers a viable opportunity for obtaining long-term residency status through investments. Participants in the program and their families can acquire a ten-year visa.

The program conditions vary depending on age:

• Investors under 50 years old are required to have assets of at least $135,000 and a monthly income of $3,000.
• For individuals over 50 years old, the minimum assets should not be less than $95,000, under similar income conditions.

Thus, despite the established restrictions and requirements, Malaysia offers numerous opportunities for highly skilled professionals who are eager to work and settle in this country.

Conclusion

So, in conclusion, it can be confidently said that Thailand is becoming an increasingly attractive place to live and invest. This Southeast Asian paradise not only offers foreigners comfortable conditions for work, business, and leisure, but also delights with stable economic growth and infrastructure development. Thanks to effective management and significant investments in various sectors of the economy, such as agriculture, healthcare, and tourism, the standard of living in the country has significantly improved.

Prospects of the real estate market

The developing real estate market, especially in popular resorts, presents an excellent opportunity for investment growth. The success of the programThailand EliteIt also confirms the interest of foreigners in long-term stays in Thailand. Despite the challenges associated with purchasing real estate, alternative schemes, such as registering an apartment in a residential complex, make this process more accessible and beneficial.

Increasing flow of tourists

With each passing year, the flow of tourists is increasing, both from Russia and other countries, creating new opportunities for business and residential real estate. Moreover, the friendly atmosphere, low cost of living, and beautiful landscapes only intensify people's desire to stay here for a long time.

Benefits of living in Thailand

• Convenient conditions for work and relaxation.
• Stable economic growth.
• Developing infrastructure.
• A profitable real estate market.
• Available conditions for long-term residence.

Ultimately, for those who want to change their lives or simply gain new experiences, Thailand opens its doors. It is a place that attracts people from all corners of the world, and it's no coincidence—everything is here for comfortable living and successful business. If you haven't yet considered moving or investing in this amazing country, perhaps now is the perfect time to explore this option. For me personally, it is clear that the prospect of living in Thailand could be an exciting new chapter, full of adventures and opportunities.