Visa for moving from Thailand to the EU The optimal visa setup for your emigration
Anyone moving back to Austria from the “Land of Smiles” or planning a new life in the European Union (EU) as a Thai citizen faces a number of bureaucratic hurdles. While a short vacation is often uncomplicated, a permanent move from Thailand to Austria requires precise preparation of visa documents. DACHSER & KOLB provides information and support on everything from the right type of visa and the application process to the interaction between household goods and visas.
When is ESTA no longer sufficient?
Thai citizens generally require a visa to enter Austria or the EU. While a residence permit (Schengen visa type C) is sufficient for visits of up to 90 days, for anything longer than that—especially for moving or working—you will need a Red-White-Red Card or a national visa (type D).
A national visa is mandatory if you:
- want to work in Austria
- want to join your spouse
- want to get married in Austria and stay there
- want to start a course of study or apprenticeship
The most important types of visas for moving to Austria from Thailand
Spousal reunification
Target group: Spouses of persons living in Austria
Requirements: Marriage certificate, proof of statutory health insurance coverage, verifiable accommodation (rented apartment), German language skills (at least A1 level), current criminal record extract
Nonimmigrant Visa – Working and Long-Term Stays as a Goal
Target group: Engaged couples planning to get married in Austria
Requirements: Registration at the registry office, proof of statutory health insurance coverage, verifiable accommodation (rented apartment), German language skills (at least A1 level), current criminal record extract
Work visa
Target group: Qualified employees or skilled workers
Requirements: Recognized vocational qualification, concrete job offer, proof of statutory health insurance coverage, verifiable accommodation (rented apartment), German language skills (at least A1 level)
EU Blue Card
Target group: Highly qualified academics
Requirements: Minimum salary, university degree (minimum three years' duration), proof of statutory health insurance coverage, German language skills (minimum A1 level), employer's declaration
Student visa
Target group: Students & language learners
Requirements: Letter of admission, proof of financial support, high school diploma and degree certificate, proof of personal health insurance or co-insurance.
Important formalities for Thai documents
Thai documents (birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc.) are only accepted by Austrian authorities if they:
✓ Have been pre-certified by the Thai Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).
✓ Have been legalized by the Austrian Embassy in Bangkok or an honorary consulate.
✓ Have been translated into German by a sworn translator (recognized by the embassy).
6 steps to a visa: Your guide from Thailand to the EU
The path to obtaining an Austrian visa in Thailand inevitably leads through the Austrian Embassy in Bangkok.
Determine purpose & collect documents
Identify your visa category and gather documents (passport, photos, certificates).
Translation & Legalization
Thai documents must be translated into German by certified translators and often need to be legalized.
Provide proof of language proficiency
The A1 certificate from the Goethe Institute is usually required for family visas.
Appointment scheduling
Book an appointment at the embassy in Bangkok well in advance.
Application & Interview
Personal submission of documents and collection of biometric data.
Visa issuance & entry
After the review (which takes approximately 4–12 weeks), you will receive your passport back with the visa.
Common mistakes when applying for a visa to enter the EU – and how to avoid them
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Incomplete documents: Even a missing check mark or an uncertified document will result in rejection.
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Incorrect visa category: As a rule, a Schengen visa cannot be converted into a permanent residence permit in Austria.
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Funding gaps: Proof of sufficient funds must be provided (declaration of commitment or blocked account).
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Underestimating time requirements: Language tests and certifications in particular require long lead times.
How DACHSER & KOLB supports you with visa setup for your move to the EU
Strategic preliminary check
Before the first box is packed, an analysis of the legal framework is carried out.
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Status check: Which visa is right for your plans (e.g., skilled worker, family reunification, or remigration)?
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Deadline management: DACHSER & KOLB creates a schedule so that the visa issuance and the arrival of your moving goods (container) are perfectly coordinated.
Document Management & Administration
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Document check: Assistance in gathering the necessary information, certificates, and evidence in Thailand.
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Application service: Help with preparing applications for entry visas (national visa type D) and, if necessary, work permits, the Red-White-Red Card, or the EU Blue Card.?
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Certification & translation: Coordination of the necessary legalization of Thai documents by the respective embassies.
Synchronization of visa and customs
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Customs regulations: Duty-free importation of personal effects into the EU is strictly linked to visa status and change of residence. DACHSER & KOLB ensures that the documents for both authorities (visa office and customs) are consistent.
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Avoidance of storage costs: Precise coordination avoids expensive demurrage charges for containers in the port, which would arise if the visa has not yet been issued but the goods have already arrived.
Support after arrival (settling in)
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Administrative procedures: Registration with the relevant registration office.
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Residence permit: Assistance with converting the entry visa into a permanent residence permit at the local immigration office.
Visas & Customs – Why your status is relevant for your household goods
An often underestimated aspect of moving from Thailand to Austria is the importation of household goods. Certain conditions must be met in order for your furniture and personal belongings to be imported as relocation goods free of customs duties and taxes:
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Change of residence: You must prove that you are moving your habitual residence to Austria (e.g., by obtaining a national visa and deregistering in Thailand).
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Previous ownership: The goods must have been in your possession in Thailand for at least six months.
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Deadlines: As a rule, the goods must be imported within 12 months of the change of residence.
Important: Without the appropriate visa (type D), customs may classify the import as a normal import, which can result in high import duties.
Legal notice
Important note: The information provided on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Visa and customs regulations are subject to change at short notice and vary greatly between individual EU member states. We strongly recommend that you obtain official information from the relevant consulates or a specialist lawyer. A removal company can provide advice, but is not permitted to give legally binding visa advice.
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about visas for Thailand and Austria
Can I get married and stay in Austria on a tourist visa?
Marriage is theoretically possible, but for the subsequent stay, you will usually have to return to Thailand and apply for the correct visa for family reunification.
How long does it take to process a national visa?
Please allow for a processing time of approximately 8 to 12 weeks, as the local immigration office in Austria often has to give its approval.
Do I need a German language test for every visa?
As a rule, yes. Exceptions apply to children under the age of 14, persons with health restrictions, family members of certain residence permit holders or asylum rights.
Why is a Schengen visa not sufficient for relocation?
A Schengen visa (type C) is intended exclusively for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period (e.g., for tourism or visits). Since moving constitutes a permanent change of residence, this visa is not legally permissible. To relocate, you must apply for a national visa (type D) for the respective destination country or the Red-White-Red – Card.
What is the difference between a national visa and a residence permit?
The national visa (type D) is merely an “entry ticket.” It is issued by the embassy in Bangkok and allows you to enter the country legally for the purpose of taking up residence. After arriving in the EU (e.g., in Austria), you must convert this visa into a long-term residence permit (e.g., a residence permit, the Red-White-Red Card, or the EU Blue Card) at the local immigration office.
What visa options are available for Thai professionals (2026)?
Thai citizens with recognized qualifications can use the following options:
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EU Blue Card: For academics and skilled workers with a minimum salary.
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Red-White-Red Card: For workers in shortage occupations and family members who meet certain criteria (German language skills level A1, etc.).
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ICT Card: For intra-company transfers from Thai locations to the EU branch (max. 1-3 years, depending on position and qualifications).
Why DACHSER & KOLB is the right choice
Personalized consultation
Detailed needs analysis for customized relocation solutions.
Relocation planning from A to Z
Complete relocation planning: from packing to unloading, all from a single source.
Reliable network
Global network for secure, seamless transport.
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