Transcript of the above video:

As the title of this video suggests, we are discussing the Thailand Elite Visa; at the same time we are also discussing work authorization. For those who are unaware, foreign nationals in Thailand are not allowed to work without being pre-authorized; they have to obtain a Work Permit or some kind of employment authorization in order to undertake an occupation here in the Kingdom, so bear that in mind. Anybody that comes to Thailand needs to have work authorization if they are going to work here.

I thought of making this video after reading a recent article from the Pattaya Mail, that is pattayamail.com, the article is titled: Thailand on the way to becoming a visa-free zone for foreign holiday makers. Quoting directly: "Meanwhile, the Tourist Authority of Thailand has been promoting the Elite Visa (5 to 20 years), although this cash up front room does not permit employment." 

As we have noted in a number of videos, there have been major changes to the Thailand Elite program most notably the price associated with Thailand Elite status has gone up substantially. In the case of the 5-year Visa, it has gone up by 50%, in the case of the 20-year visa it is my understanding it has gone up by orders of magnitude, it is like 500% or something of this nature, so it is quite a lot. The money associated with getting into Elite status is much higher than it was in the past. Now those folks that were able to get into the program and sort of "grandfather" themselves in, that's great and for retirees and things, it is probably optimal in their circumstances again so long as they have the resources to obtain the Elite Visa in the first place. 

But those who are looking to work in Thailand, look the Elite Visa is not work authorized. As we have discussed many, many times, work authorization comes from a Work Permit generally issued in association with a Business Visa here in Thailand and again that doesn't have anything to do with the Elite Visa itself. So for long-term status here in Thailand, Thailand Elite maybe optimal but as far as work authorization as previously discussed, no that's not an option associated with Elite Visa status here in the Kingdom of Thailand.