Which Thailand Visa is Right for You? A Complete Guide for Foreign Investors, Expats, and Business Owners
Published by Fig Tree Thailand
Thailand offers a variety of visa options for foreigners who wish to live, work, invest, or retire in the country. Understanding the right visa type is essential to ensure compliance with Thai law and to make your stay smooth and secure. Below is a practical guide to the main visa categories available:
1. Non-Immigrant “B” Visa (Business Visa)
Ideal for Business owners, company directors, and foreign employees.
- Purpose: Starting or working in a Thai company
- Initial Duration: 90 days (extendable to 1 year)
- Work Permit Required: Yes
- Common Users: Company directors, managers, and foreign staff
Note: To obtain a one-year extension, the company must meet requirements such as a minimum paid-up capital and employment of Thai nationals.
2. BOI-Sponsored Visa
Issued to Employees of companies promoted by Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI)
Ideal for Tech startups, manufacturers, R&D businesses
- Purpose: Encourage foreign investment in targeted industries.
- Work Permit: Streamlined via BOI privileges.
- Benefits: Fast-track visa processing, no Thai-employee ratio requirement
3. SMART Visa
Designed for high-skilled professionals, investors, executives, and startup founders in Thailand target industries (e.g., tech, health, renewable energy).
SMART Visa Types:
- SMART “T” – Talent
- SMART “I” – Investor
- SMART “E” – Executive
- SMART “S” – Startup
Benefits:
- Valid for up to 4 years
- No work permit required
- Includes family members
- Access to fast-track immigration services
4. Non-Immigrant “O” Visa (Other / Spouse / Retirement)
For: Foreigners with Thai family connections or retirees
Subtypes:
- Marriage Visa: For those married to a Thai citizen
- Retirement Visa: For individuals 50+ with financial proof
- Guardian Visa: For parents of Thai children or students
- Work Permit: Not allowed (unless upgraded to “B” visa)
- Common Users: Expats living with family in Thailand
5. Long-Term Resident Visa (LTR Visa)
A new visa offering 10-year residency to high-potential foreigners.
Categories:
- Wealthy Global Citizens
- Wealthy Pensioners
- Work-from-Thailand Professionals
- Highly-Skilled Professionals
Requirements: Vary by category (e.g., investment, health insurance) )
Highlights:
- 10-year renewable residency
- Fast-track services and immigration lanes
- Reduced personal income tax (as low as 17% for skilled professionals)
- Permission to work with no separate Work Permit
6. Tourist Visa & Visa Exemption
For short stays, exploration, or preliminary business visits.
- Tourist Visa (TR): 60 days, extendable by 30 days
- Visa Exemption: For passport holders from specific countries (30–60 days)
- Work Permission: ❌ Not allowed
Tip: Useful while preparing for a Non-B Visa or company setup
📌 Which Visa is Right for You?
Choosing the correct visa depends on your purpose of stay, your role in the business, and your long-term plans in Thailand. At Fig Tree Thailand, we provide expert visa consulting, business setup services, and tailored compliance solutions to help you start and grow your business with ease.
📩 Contact Us
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