SMART VISA THAILAND

WHAT IS THE THAILAND SMART VISA?

The Thailand Smart Visa is a special visa designed to attract highly skilled professionals, investors, executives and start-up entrepreneurs to work or invest in targeted industries in Thailand.

The SMART Visa Program offers long-term residence and special privileges to qualified applicants. SMART visa holders may be granted permission to stay in Thailand for up to 4 years, along with additional benefits such as exemption from the standard work permit requirement.

Benefits of The Thai SMART Visa

SMART S (Startup)

• Renewable visa valid for up to 2 years.

• No work permit required for work in a certified business; job changes require additional endorsement.

• 90-day reporting is extended to once a year at the One Stop Service Centre.

• No re-entry permit required.

• Spouse and children may stay for the same period as the Smart visa holder, and the spouse may work without a work permit.

• Fast-track service available at international airports in Thailand, where applicable.

SMART O (Other)

• Spouse and children may stay for the same duration as the Smart visa holder.

• Spouse may work without a work permit.

• Children of Smart “T” holders may work without a work permit if they are at least 18 years old and the job is not prohibited for foreigners.

• Work is allowed only with endorsed companies; job changes require additional endorsement.

• 90-day reporting is extended to once a year at the One Stop Service Center.

• No re-entry permit is required.

• Fast-track service is available at international airports in Thailand, where applicable.

Thailand SMART Visa Categories

1. SMART S (Startup)

For foreign startup founders and entrepreneurs who establish or develop a technology-based business in Thailand within an approved industry.

2. SMART O (Other)

For the legal spouse and children of a SMART Visa holder who wish to stay in Thailand as dependants under the same visa framework.

The Thailand Smart Visa Program supports professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs involved in technology-based businesses within Thailand’s targeted industries.

Thailand SMART Visa Requirements

1. SMART S (Startup)

• Established a startup in Thailand certified by a relevant agency, such as NIA or DEPA, as operating in a targeted industry.

• Holds at least 25% of the company’s registered capital or serves as a director.

• Maintains a deposit of at least THB 600,000, or equivalent, for at least 3 months.

• If accompanied by spouse or children, an additional THB 180,000 per person, or equivalent, is required for at least 3 months.

• Holds health insurance covering the full stay in Thailand for the applicant and accompanying family members.

2. SMART O (Other)

• Must be legal dependents (spouse or children) of a Smart “S” 2-year visa holder.

• Children must be under 20 years old, except for eligible children of Smart “T” holders under specific conditions.

• Spouse and children must each maintain an additional deposit of at least THB 180,000, or equivalent, for at least 3 months.

• Health insurance must cover the full duration of the applicant's stay in Thailand and that of accompanying family members.

Thailand SMART Visa Application Process

1. Online Application

• Applicants must register and submit their SMART Visa application online, including supporting documents.

2. Qualification Review

• Relevant Thai authorities review the application to confirm eligibility under the Thailand Smart Visa program.

3. Visa Issuance

• Approved applicants can obtain the Thailand Smart Visa at:

  • Royal Thai Embassies or Consulates abroad, or

  • The One Stop Service Center for Visa and Work Permit in Bangkok.

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