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I Bought Thailand's Most Hated Visa

Up to You

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No other visa in Thailand is as hated as Thailand Privilege. It’s the undisputed piñata of the expat internet—relentlessly trashed as an overpriced, glorified tourist visa. So why did I drop serious cash on this?

Because while most people in the comments are talking about price hikes, I actually ran the numbers.

In this video, I break down why I skipped the usual suspects—the Retirement Non-O, the DTV, and the LTR. No boring law firm slide-decks or stock footage marathons. Just simple math backed up by real behind-the-scenes receipts: golf cart pickups at the airport, VIP ringside fight nights, and full clinical diagnostics (yes, including my actual DEXA scan).

Zero sponsorships or commissions. 100% paid out of my own pocket. If you’re eyeing a move to Thailand and want ground truth instead of forum noise, this is the breakdown. Drop your own visa battle stories in the comments.

20 Comments

@UptoYou2025 Creator 2 weeks ago Pinned

So what do you think... did I get ripped off?

And if you moved to Thailand today, which visa would you get: DTV, Non-O, LTR, or Privilege?

@melissawest43 13 days ago

Congratulations for a superb presentation. I pondered my Thai Visa options for three years and finally, the Privilege Visa just clicked into place. I am now on the 15-year option.

When I compare my BKK and LHR experiences, they are worlds apart. I have had excellent service from Siam Legal and I have done everything through them.

My Thai tutor has helped me enormously with the practical details of living in Bangkok.

I am now at the end of my first 12 months which I considered to be a trial period. It went well so I am going for a better condo and I will get myself a nice 27” monitor for my laptop.

I do more physical activities, my health is better and I have lost weight.

@MsSmith-nb2yn 6 days ago

THANKS for breaking this down! I appreciate the numbers!

@WayneRead-x7f 2 hours ago

For about $100 you can get fast track, lounge, golf cart. All of this on economy fees.

@sabailifethailandployandjay 13 days ago

You had a great timing to get the Elite visa. Well done video 😊

@NHBKK 10 days ago

I applied for a 20-year Thailand Privilege Visa 10 years ago, when I was still under 40. The price was really good back then, and I’ve genuinely enjoyed using it :)

@Lamexicanaentailandia 13 days ago

Great video.

@LesserMe 10 days ago

Really up to you. I have the LTR P and have had nothing but problems. Most people don't know what it is and the BOI is just as confused.

@stefanrucman5352 11 days ago

you did right thing!!!! no regrets! happy to have you on my podcast

@patnewman1 13 days ago (edited)

Like you I have the Easy Access which I bought in 2022. I was not happy with the changes which were made in 2023 and I decided then that I would explore other options (which I did but did not like the issues of parking money and the yearly renewals) . My renewal date was fast approaching when I received an email from Privilege offering to upgrade to the Platinum card for 4000,000 baht. I was also offered a 15 year upgrade but without any of the perks which I have grown very accustomed to for the same amount of money. I did finally choose to go with the Platinum card upgrade. The whole Thailand Elite/Privilege experience works for me and since I travel in and out 2-3 times per years so the transport to and from the airport, gate meets, passport control ease, lounges etc are definitely worth the money to me. I certainly understand all of the naysayers because it is not for everyone. I live in Chiang Mai so most of the perks for shopping, wellness checks etc do not apply to me most times.🙏

@arunsakda 13 days ago (edited)

It is a great programme for Foreigner not married, under 50 and not working in Thailand.

@JohnnyRingo555 10 days ago

Thank you for posting this video. I have an older German Shepherd that I would have to take with me and would like to limit the air travel for him. Exploring my options and what visa would be the best for my situation. I was thinking I may have to rent a villa for a larger dog. Glad to hear you were able to secure a pet friendly condo. Congratulations on your move!

@chrisroberts555 10 days ago

I’m moved to Chiang Rai Thailand five years ago and got an elite 5 year visa for exactly your reasons.
This year I upgraded for another 15 years at 3/4 of my original price without all the extras as there are none in Chiang Rai but still retain airport immigration fast track lounge and airport meeting services. a great outcome and one that works for me. Can only get a drivers licence for two years but renewing is fast and easy where I am. I would definitely recommend the visa for peace of mind and I will admit that the gold passport visa sticker does fast track opportunities and opinion where I am. Stay well stay happy and value your time.

@EarthCamper 13 days ago

Peace of mind is important than anything else...i think you made good choice.

@darp007 13 days ago (edited)

Congratulations on acquiring your Privilege Visa. I sincerely wish and hope the flame stays on for 20 years which is a long time. Indeed Thailand is a great fresh experience, but over time things get boring sometimes(at least in my case). I was definitely excited over my DTV for the first couple of years and even though they stopped giving bank accounts for DTV, it still felt great considering Thailand's vibrant and friendly culture but over time, it started loosing its charm as its always the same markets, food, festivals, places, clubs and everything all over the year which gives me a feeling that such a long term visa for South East Asia region would be something I would consider in future(if they come up with it hopefully) so that there is always something new. But anyway I hope you find it really worth it because it ideally should be, considering the amount you spent for it. Cheers and best of luck!👍

@DeanBateman-911 13 days ago

"When he reached the New World, Cortez burned his ships. As a result, his men were well motivated." Captain Marko Ramius - Hunt for Red October

@WayneRead-x7f 2 hours ago

This service does not need that kind of investment.

@robwilliams2490 9 days ago

I have had the 20 year elite 5 years I only spend 6-8 months a year in Thailand but for the cost it is a great deal. Highly recommend it

@vincentchow6448 11 days ago (edited)

I previously had the Thai priviledge visa but declined to renew. I just got the DTV. Regarding fast track, luggage, etc. there is a Thai Privilege light or you can pay for the services through AOT - this is what I do. Because you go through the fast track lane, the immigration officers are much friendlier and don't ask questions. 90 day reporting isn't an issue for me, its extremely rare to stay in Thailand for 90 days and my sister in law can take care of my cats when I'm out (and vice versa). Regarding the other visas like the retirement visa - when I get to that age I'll just pay someone to deal with the paperwork.