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EEC Visa: A New Tool for Thailand’s Economic Transformation
This visa lets you stay in Thailand for up to 10 years and seek employment in a special economic zone called the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), located on the nation’s eastern seaboard. As a professional visa, the EEC Visa allows you to acquire a work permit and provides several other benefits designed for high-skill workers.
What Is the Thai EEC Visa?
The Thai government introduced this visa to encourage a steady flow of qualified workers to the EEC, a zone in Thailand designed to improve the country’s economic, industrial, and technological development. If you’re a foreign specialist, professional, or executive working in high-tech or heavy industries, then this visa could be a good option for you.
The 3 EEC provinces consist of Chachoengsao, Chonburi, and Rayong. To acquire this visa, you must work or have an employment offer from a company based in these 3 regions.
The different types, eligibility requirements, and cost of the EEC Visa
The EEC Visa consists of 4 different categories. Each one has slightly different requirements and benefits based on the nature of the holder’s role.
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- Specialists (S)
- Professionals (P)
- Executives (E)
- Others (O)*
- Must secure employment in either Chachoengsao, Chonburi, or Rayong
- Your position must fall under one of the targeted industries:
- Automation
- Biochemicals
- Automotives
- Electronics
- Agriculture and Biotechnology
- Food
- Tourism
- Aviation
- Digital Technology
- Medical and Healthcare
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- 5-year multiple-entry visa, renewable once for a stay of up to 10 years
- No re-entry permit needed to fly into and out of the country
- Flat personal income tax rate of 17%
- Ability to apply for an expedited Thai work permit at a reduced cost through the One-Stop Service Center
- Access to the premium lane for fast-track immigration clearance at Thai international airports