What is the LTR Visa?
The Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa is Thailand's premium visa program designed to attract wealthy individuals, remote workers, retirees, and highly skilled professionals. Launched in 2022, it offers a 10-year visa with numerous benefits that make it one of the most attractive visa options for qualifying individuals.
Key Benefits of the LTR Visa
- •10-year validity - No more annual renewals
- •Multiple re-entry permit included
- •Work permit included (for relevant categories)
- •Fast-track services at international airports
- •No 90-day reporting - Only annual reporting required
- •17% personal income tax cap for highly skilled professionals
- •Ability to own land (up to 1 rai for residential purposes)
Four Categories of LTR Visa
1. Wealthy Global Citizens
For high-net-worth individuals looking to make Thailand their base.
- •Minimum assets of USD 1 million
- •Personal income of at least USD 80,000 per year
- •Investment of at least USD 500,000 in Thai government bonds, foreign direct investment, or Thai property
2. Wealthy Pensioners
For retirees aged 50 and above with substantial retirement income.
- •Personal income of at least USD 80,000 per year at time of application
- •In case of lower income (minimum USD 40,000/year), must invest at least USD 250,000 in Thai government bonds, foreign direct investment, or Thai property
3. Work-from-Thailand Professionals
For remote workers and digital nomads employed by established companies.
- •Personal income of at least USD 80,000 per year
- •Reduced to USD 40,000 per year if holding a Master's degree or above, own intellectual property, or received Series A funding
- •Current employer must be a public company or private company in operation for at least 3 years with combined revenue of at least USD 150 million over the last 3 years
- •At least 5 years of work experience in current field
4. Highly Skilled Professionals
For experts working in targeted industries in Thailand.
- •Personal income of at least USD 80,000 per year
- •Reduced to USD 40,000 per year with Master's degree or above in science & technology
- •Current employment or service agreement with a company in Thailand
- •At least 5 years of work experience in targeted industries
Application Process
- 1.Check Eligibility - Review requirements for your chosen category
- 2.Prepare Documents - Gather all required documentation including financial statements, employment contracts, and educational certificates
- 3.Online Application - Submit through the Board of Investment (BOI) website
- 4.BOI Review - Initial screening by the BOI (typically 20 working days)
- 5.Endorsement Letter - Receive BOI endorsement if approved
- 6.Visa Application - Apply at Thai embassy/consulate or immigration office
- 7.Visa Issuance - Receive your 10-year LTR visa
Required Documents
Common documents across all categories include:
- •Passport with at least 18 months validity
- •Proof of income (tax returns, payslips, bank statements)
- •Health insurance with at least USD 50,000 coverage
- •Criminal background check from home country
- •Employment verification letter
- •Educational certificates (if claiming reduced income requirement)
- •Investment proof (if applicable)
Costs
- •Application fee: THB 50,000 (non-refundable)
- •Multiple re-entry permit: Included (normally THB 3,800)
- •Work permit: Included for relevant categories
- •Total cost: THB 50,000 for 10 years
Important Considerations
- •The visa is valid for 10 years but passport stamps are given in 5-year increments
- •Must maintain qualifying criteria throughout the visa period
- •Family members (spouse and children under 20) can apply for dependent visas
- •Land ownership is limited to 1 rai (1,600 square meters) for residential purposes only
- •Must report to immigration once per year instead of every 90 days
Comparison with Other Long-Term Visas
The LTR visa offers significant advantages over other options like the Elite visa or retirement visa:
- •Includes work permit (Elite visa doesn't)
- •Only annual reporting (vs 90-day for others)
- •Fast-track airport services included
- •Potential land ownership rights
- •Tax benefits for highly skilled professionals
Who Should Consider the LTR Visa?
The LTR visa is ideal for:
- •High-earning remote workers wanting a stable base in Thailand
- •Wealthy retirees seeking premium benefits and convenience
- •Professionals in tech, finance, and other targeted industries
- •Investors looking to establish deeper ties with Thailand
- •Anyone wanting to avoid the hassle of annual visa renewals
Conclusion
The LTR visa represents Thailand's most comprehensive attempt to attract global talent and investment. While the financial requirements are substantial, the benefits – particularly the 10-year validity, included work permit, and reduced reporting requirements – make it an attractive option for those who qualify. The program continues to evolve, with the Thai government showing commitment to making the country a hub for remote workers and international professionals.