Thailand has long been a favorite destination for international travelers and expatriates with its tropical climate, affordable cost of living, and rich culture. Recognizing the growing demand for long-term residency options, the Thai government introduced the Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa in 2022. This visa is specifically designed to attract wealthy individuals, retirees, skilled professionals, and remote workers who wish to live in Thailand for extended periods of time throughout the year.

If you’re planning to apply for an LTR Visa in Thailand, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the eligibility requirements, application process, and key steps to successfully secure your visa.

What is the LTR Visa in Thailand?

The LTR Visa is part of Thailand’s new initiative to draw high-potential foreigners to live, work, or retire in the country. Introduced in 2022, this visa aims to stimulate Thailand’s economy by attracting wealthy residents, retirees, skilled professionals, and digital nomads. The LTR Visa allows foreign nationals to live in Thailand for up to 10 years, with various tax and work benefits. This visa also provides a streamlined residency process, making it one of the most appealing long-term visas in Southeast Asia. More info on the official BOI website here.

Key Benefits of the LTR Visa

Applying for the LTR Visa in Thailand offers numerous advantages, including:

• 10-Year Visa: LTR Visa holders can stay in Thailand for up to 10 years, making it a long-term residency solution.
• Work Authorization: The visa allows holders to work legally in Thailand, a significant advantage for professionals and remote workers. Includes a digital work permit.
• Tax Benefits: There are tax incentives for certain categories, including reduced income tax rates for highly skilled professionals.
• Multiple Entry: The visa allows unlimited multiple entries into Thailand during its validity period.
• Dependents Included: The visa covers spouses and children under 20 years of age, making it family-friendly.
• Expedited Services: LTR Visa holders receive priority services at Thai immigration and airports.

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Eligibility Criteria for the LTR Visa

The LTR Visa is available under several categories. Each category has specific requirements that must be met for successful application:

1. Wealthy Global Citizens

• Must have assets of at least $1 million USD.
• Requires proof of an annual personal income of at least $80,000 USD over the past two years.
• Must invest at least $500,000 USD in Thai government bonds, real estate, or foreign direct investment.

2. Wealthy Pensioners

• Must be 50 years or older.
• Requires proof of an annual income of at least $80,000 USD. If income falls between $40,000-$80,000 USD, applicants must invest $250,000 USD in Thai government bonds, real estate, or FDI.

3. Work-from-Thailand Professionals (Digital Nomads and Remote Worker)

• Must work for a company that is registered abroad or for their own company based outside of Thailand.
• Requires proof of an annual income of at least $80,000 USD for the past two years (or $40,000 USD if holding a Master’s degree or higher).
• The company should be publicly traded or have a turnover of at least $150 million USD annually.

4. Highly Skilled Professionals

• Requires employment in target industries such as tech, engineering, or healthcare.
• Must earn at least $80,000 USD annually for the past two years. If income is between $40,000-$80,000 USD, a Master’s degree or relevant work experience is required.
• Must have at least five years of professional experience in the relevant field.

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Documents Needed for the LTR Visa Application

Once you’ve determined which category you fall into, the next step is to gather the necessary documentation. Each category may have different requirements, but generally, the following documents are needed:

• Valid Passport: Your passport must have at least six months of validity remaining.
• Proof of Income: This could include salary slips, tax returns, or a letter from your employer showing you meet the income requirements.
• Proof of Assets or Investments: Bank statements, investment portfolios, or documents showing your assets or investments in Thailand.
• Health Insurance: Proof of valid health insurance with coverage of at least $50,000 USD.
• Criminal Background Check: A clean criminal record from your home country is mandatory.
• Medical Certificate: Some applicants may need to provide a medical certificate showing they are in good health.

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Step-by-Step Process to Apply for the LTR Visa

1. Determine Your Eligibility and Category

The first step in the application process is determining which category you fall into: Wealthy Global Citizen, Wealthy Pensioner, Work-from-Thailand Professional, or Highly Skilled Professional. This will dictate the specific documents and application process you’ll need to follow.

2. Prepare and Gather Your Documents

Once you have determined your category, begin gathering the required documents. Be meticulous in collecting the correct paperwork, including translations into English or Thai if necessary.

3. Submit Your Application Online

Thailand has introduced an online platform to simplify the LTR Visa application process. Here’s how to do it:

• Visit the Official Website: Go to the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) portal to start your visa application.
• Create an Account: Register for an account and complete the online application form by providing personal information and uploading your supporting documents.
• Pay the Application Fee: The visa application fee is around 50,000 Thai Baht (approximately $1,500 USD), payable online or in-person at the BOI office.

4. Attend an Interview (If Required)

Depending on your visa category, you may be asked to attend an interview at the Thai consulate or embassy in your home country or in Thailand. The interview usually involves verifying your documents, income sources, and intent for staying in Thailand.

5. Wait for Visa Approval

After submitting your application, the waiting time can vary but typically takes between one to three months. During this time, Thai immigration authorities will review your application and may ask for additional documents if needed.

6. Receive Your LTR Visa and Travel to Thailand

Once your visa application is approved, you will receive your LTR Visa, allowing you to live and work in Thailand for up to 10 years. When traveling to Thailand, make sure to carry your visa approval letter and all necessary documentation.

Watch my full explainer video on YouTube to learn how to apply for the LTR Visa.

Maintaining Your LTR Visa Status

To maintain your LTR Visa, certain conditions must be met during your stay in Thailand:

1. Annual Reporting

LTR Visa holders are required to report their residence status to Thai immigration every year. This is a relatively simple process but must be completed to maintain legal residency status.

2. Maintaining Income or Assets

You must continue to meet the income or asset requirements that qualified you for the visa. Failure to maintain the required income level or investments could result in visa revocation.

3. Health Insurance

LTR Visa holders must maintain valid health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay. Ensure that your insurance policy meets the minimum coverage requirements of $50,000 USD.

Conclusion

The Long-Term Resident Visa is an excellent option for those looking to live and work in Thailand for an extended period. With the right preparation and understanding of the application process, you can take advantage of Thailand’s welcoming environment, tax benefits, and long-term residency perks. Whether you’re a wealthy individual, retiree, digital nomad, or highly skilled professional, the LTR Visa offers a clear pathway to making Thailand your home.

Any questions? Schedule a consultation call on my website here.

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FAQs About the LTR Visa

1. Can I bring my family with me on the LTR Visa?

Yes, the LTR Visa allows you to bring your spouse and children under the age of 20. They will be included as dependents on your visa.

2. Is the LTR Visa renewable?

The LTR Visa is valid for up to 10 years, with an initial period of five years and an option to renew for an additional five years.

3. Can I work in Thailand on the LTR Visa?

Yes, the LTR Visa permits holders to work legally in Thailand. Work permits are streamlined under this visa category, making it easier for professionals and remote workers to operate in the country.

4. What are the tax benefits of the LTR Visa?

Tax incentives vary depending on the category but may include reduced income tax rates for highly skilled professionals.

5. Do I need to invest in Thailand to qualify for the LTR Visa?

Not all categories require investment, but wealthy global citizens and retirees must make investments in Thai assets or government bonds to qualify.

6. What happens if I fail to report to immigration annually?

Failure to report could result in fines or the cancellation of your visa, so it’s important to comply with annual reporting requirements.