The Thailand SMART Visa: Everything to Know

Thailand’s SMART Visa comes with a variety of appealing benefits. Its purpose is to encourage high caliber talent from a range of “targeted industries” to bring their expertise, ideas, and businesses to Thailand. The requirements can be strict, but if you can prove significant expertise, you may in fact qualify.



We can help you determine your eligibility.

The Thailand SMART Visa: Everything to Know

The Thailand SMART Visa: Everything to Know

Thailand’s SMART Visa comes with a variety of appealing benefits. Its purpose is to encourage high caliber talent from a range of “targeted industries” to bring their expertise, ideas, and businesses to Thailand. The requirements can be strict, but if you can prove significant expertise, you may in fact qualify.



We can help you determine your eligibility.

The Thailand SMART Visa: Everything to Know

Thailand’s SMART Visa comes with a variety of appealing benefits. Its purpose is to encourage high caliber talent from a range of “targeted industries” to bring their expertise, ideas, and businesses to Thailand. The requirements can be strict, but if you can prove significant expertise, you may in fact qualify.



We can help you determine your eligibility.

SMART-T Image

SMART-T

Highly-Skilled
Experts

SMART-T Icon
SMART-I Image

SMART-I

Investors

SMART-L Icon
SMART-E Image

SMART-E

Business
Executives

Smart-E Icon
SMART-S Image

SMART-S

Startup Owners & Entrepreneurs

Smart-S Icon
SMART-T Image

SMART-T

Highly-Skilled
Experts

SMART-T Icon
SMART-I Image

SMART-I

Investors

SMART-L Icon
SMART-E Image

SMART-E

Business
Executives

Smart-E Icon
SMART-S Image

SMART-S

Startup Owners & Entrepreneurs

Smart-S Icon
SMART-T Image

SMART-T

Highly-Skilled
 Experts

SMART-T Icon
SMART-I Image

SMART-I

Investors

SMART-L Icon
SMART-E Image

SMART-E

Business
Executives

Smart-E Icon
SMART-S Image

SMART-S

Startup Owners & Entrepreneurs

Smart-S Icon

The official purpose of the SMART Visa is to attract highly-talented individuals involved in emerging technologies to Thailand. These include experts in science and technology, tech company executives, investors, and startup founders.
Thailand SMART Visa applicants must be working or investing in one of 18 so-called “S-Curve” or “Targeted” Industries.

If you’re serious about pursuing any of these visa options and in need of a qualified local expert in visa & business law who can help expedite and simplify the process for you, reach out to us so we can personally advise you. Your initial consultation is 100% free.

Targeted Industries in the SMART Visa Program

Automotive 
Industry
Transportation Logistics
Environment Management Renewable Energy
Electronics Industry
Petrochemical
Targeted Technology Development
Affluent Tourism Industry
National
Tech innovation
Agricultural
Circular Economy Supporting Industries
Human Resources in Science
Digital
Medical

International Business Center
Automation
Aviation, Aerospace
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Automotive 
Industry
Transportation Logistics
Targeted Technology Development
Environment Management Renewable Energy
Petrochemical
Electronics Industry
International Business Center
Affluent Tourism Industry
Tech innovation
Agricultural
Circular Economy Supporting Industries
Digital
Medical

Automation
Aviation, Aerospace
Human Resources in Science
Alternative Dispute Resolution

The 4 Different Types of SMART Visa

There are four basic categories of Thailand SMART Visa, plus a fifth type for their qualifying dependents. Each type has its own specific requirements and comes with its own list of benefits.

SMART-T Image

SMART-T

Highly-Skilled
Experts

SMART-T Icon

SMART-T: Highly-Skilled Experts

Who Is This Type of SMART Visa Meant For?

This category is intended for scientists, engineers, researchers, and highly-skilled technicians.

Benefits for Visa Holders

1
Up to 4 years of validity (but no longer than your employment contract) & renewable.
2
No work permit needed to work in your approved company or government agency.
3
Your spouse & children are also permitted to live and work in Thailand.
4
Once per year reporting
instead of reporting once every 90 days.
5
No re-entry permit required to
exit and re-enter the country.
6
Get airport fast-track service
for arrivals & departures.

Requirements for Eligibility

Proven expertise in one of the targeted industries with an endorsement by a relevant government agency. This typically (but not always) means having an advanced degree or 10 years of experience.
Employment or service contract for minimum of 1 year with a company or government agency in Thailand.
Your employing entity must also receive certification of engagement in a targeted industry by a relevant government agency.
Minimum salary of THB 100,000 per month (roughly USD 2,900).

Do you fit the definition of a Highly-Skilled Expert based on the description and requirements above? If so get in touch with us so we can help you get your SMART Visa without the risk and stress of applying by yourself.

SMART-T Image

SMART-T

Highly-Skilled
Experts

SMART-T Icon

SMART-T: Highly-Skilled Experts

Who Is This Type of SMART Visa Meant For?

This category is intended for scientists, engineers, researchers, and highly-skilled technicians.

Benefits for Visa Holders

1
Up to 4 years of validity (but no longer than your employment contract) & renewable.
2
No work permit needed to work in your approved company or government agency.
3
Your spouse & children are also permitted to live and work in Thailand.
4
Once per year reporting
instead of reporting once every 90 days.
5
No re-entry permit required to
exit and re-enter the country.
6
Get airport fast-track service
for arrivals & departures.

Requirements for Eligibility

Proven expertise in one of the targeted industries with an endorsement by a relevant government agency. This typically (but not always) means having an advanced degree or 10 years of experience.
Employment or service contract for minimum of 1 year with a company or government agency in Thailand.
Your employing entity must also receive certification of engagement in a targeted industry by a relevant government agency.
Minimum salary of THB 100,000 per month (roughly USD 2,900).

Do you fit the definition of a Highly-Skilled Expert based on the description and requirements above? If so get in touch with us so we can help you get your SMART Visa without the risk and stress of applying by yourself.

SMART-T Image

SMART-T

Highly-Skilled
 Experts

SMART-T Icon
SMART-T Image

SMART-T

Highly-Skilled
Experts

SMART-T Icon

Who Is This Type of SMART Visa Meant For?

This category is intended for scientists, engineers, researchers, and highly-skilled technicians.

Benefits for Visa Holders

1
Up to 4 years of validity (but no longer than your employment contract) & renewable.
2
No work permit needed to work in your approved company or government agency.
3
Your spouse & children are also permitted to live and work in Thailand.
4
Once per year reporting
instead of reporting once every 90 days.
5
No re-entry permit required to
exit and re-enter the country.
6
Get airport fast-track service
for arrivals & departures.

Requirements for Eligibility

Proven expertise in one of the targeted industries with an endorsement by a relevant government agency. This typically (but not always) means having an advanced degree or 10 years of experience.
Employment or service contract for minimum of 1 year with a company or government agency in Thailand.
Your employing entity must also receive certification of engagement in a targeted industry by a relevant government agency.
Minimum salary of THB 100,000 per month (roughly USD 2,900).

Do you fit the definition of a Highly-Skilled Expert based on the description and requirements above? If so get in touch with us so we can help you get your SMART Visa without the risk and stress of applying by yourself.

SMART-I Image

SMART-I

Investors

SMART-L Icon

SMART-I: Investors

Who Is This Type of SMART Visa Meant For?

The SMART I version aims to attract those willing to invest significant capital in companies using technology for delivering services or manufacturing products.

Benefits for Visa Holders

1
Up to 4 years of validity (but no longer than your employment contract) & renewable.
2
No work permit needed to work in your approved company or government agency.
3
Your spouse & children are also permitted to live and work in Thailand.
4
Once per year reporting
instead of reporting once every 90 days.
5
No re-entry permit required to
exit and re-enter the country.
6
Get airport fast-track service
for arrivals & departures.

Requirements for Eligibility

Minimum investment of THB 20 million (roughly USD $640,000) in one or more companies in the targeted industries in Thailand.
Investment must be held for the entire duration of the visa validity.
The company or companies invested in must receive certification of engagement in a valid industry by a relevant government agency.

If you’re a qualified investor, the SMART Visa may be an ideal option for you to come live and work in Thailand. If you’re not sure if you qualify for the SMART-I Visa, get in touch with us. We’ll help you figure out the best option and the easiest path forward.

SMART-I Image

SMART-I

Investors

SMART-L Icon

SMART-I: Investors

Who Is This Type of SMART Visa Meant For?

The SMART I version aims to attract those willing to invest significant capital in companies using technology for delivering services or manufacturing products.

Benefits for Visa Holders

1
Up to 4 years of validity (but no longer than your employment contract) & renewable.
2
No work permit needed to work in your approved company or government agency.
3
Your spouse & children are also permitted to live and work in Thailand.
4
Once per year reporting
instead of reporting once every 90 days.
5
No re-entry permit required to
exit and re-enter the country.
6
Get airport fast-track service
for arrivals & departures.

Requirements for Eligibility

Minimum investment of THB 20 million (roughly USD $640,000) in one or more companies in the targeted industries in Thailand.
Investment must be held for the entire duration of the visa validity.
The company or companies invested in must receive certification of engagement in a valid industry by a relevant government agency.

If you’re a qualified investor, the SMART Visa may be an ideal option for you to come live and work in Thailand. If you’re not sure if you qualify for the SMART-I Visa, get in touch with us. We’ll help you figure out the best option and the easiest path forward.

SMART-I Image

SMART-I

Investors

SMART-L Icon
SMART-I Image

SMART-I

Investors

SMART-L Icon

Who Is This Type of SMART Visa Meant For?

The SMART I version aims to attract those willing to invest significant capital in companies using technology for delivering services or manufacturing products.

Benefits for Visa Holders

1
Up to 4 years of validity (but no longer than your employment contract) & renewable.
2
No work permit needed to work in your approved company or government agency.
3
Your spouse & children are also permitted to live and work in Thailand.
4
Once per year reporting
instead of reporting once every 90 days.
5
No re-entry permit required to
exit and re-enter the country.
6
Get airport fast-track service
for arrivals & departures.

Requirements for Eligibility

If you’re a qualified investor, the SMART Visa may be an ideal option for you to come live and work in Thailand. If you’re not sure if you qualify for the SMART-I Visa, get in touch with us. We’ll help you figure out the best option and the easiest path forward.

SMART-E Image

SMART-E

Business
Executives

Smart-E Icon

SMART-E: Business Executives

Who Is This Type of SMART Visa Meant For?

This category of visa is available to senior executives and management of companies engaged in one of the targeted industries.

Benefits for Visa Holders

1
Up to 4 years of validity (but no longer than your employment contract) & renewable.
2
No work permit needed to work in your approved company or government agency.
3
Your spouse & children are also permitted to live and work in Thailand.
4
Once per year reporting
instead of reporting once every 90 days.
5
No re-entry permit required to
exit and re-enter the country.
6
Get airport fast-track service
for arrivals & departures.

Requirements for Eligibility

Minimum salary of THB 200,000 per month (roughly USD $6,400).
Employment contract for minimum of 1 year with a Thai company or a foreign company with a Thailand-based job post.
Hold a position in senior management.
The employing company must also receive certification of engagement in a target industry by a relevant government agency.

If this sounds like you then the SMART Visa could be your ticket to a luxurious long stay in Southeast Asia’s most appealing and in-demand nation. To get the highest odds of approval, let us do the work for you. Book a free consultation to review your qualifications and get started with your application today.

SMART-E Image

SMART-E

Business
Executives

Smart-E Icon

SMART-E: Business Executives

Who Is This Type of SMART Visa Meant For?

This category of visa is available to senior executives and management of companies engaged in one of the targeted industries.

Benefits for Visa Holders

1
Up to 4 years of validity (but no longer than your employment contract) & renewable.
2
No work permit needed to work in your approved company or government agency.
3
Your spouse & children are also permitted to live and work in Thailand.
4
Once per year reporting
instead of reporting once every 90 days.
5
No re-entry permit required to
exit and re-enter the country.
6
Get airport fast-track service
for arrivals & departures.

Requirements for Eligibility

Minimum salary of THB 200,000 per month (roughly USD $6,400).
Hold at least a bachelor’s degree and have a minimum of 10 years experience in the relevant industry.
Employment contract for minimum of 1 year with a Thai company or a foreign company with a Thailand-based job post.
Hold a position in senior management.
The employing company must also receive certification of engagement in a target industry by a relevant government agency.

If this sounds like you then the SMART Visa could be your ticket to a luxurious long stay in Southeast Asia’s most appealing and in-demand nation. To get the highest odds of approval, let us do the work for you. Book a free consultation to review your qualifications and get started with your application today.

SMART-E Image

SMART-E

Business
Executives

Smart-E Icon
SMART-E Image

SMART-E

Business
Executives

Smart-E Icon

Who Is This Type of SMART Visa Meant For?

This category of visa is available to senior executives and management of companies engaged in one of the targeted industries.

Benefits for Visa Holders

1
Up to 4 years of validity (but no longer than your employment contract) & renewable.
2
No work permit needed to work in your approved company or government agency.
3
Your spouse & children are also permitted to live and work in Thailand.
4
Once per year reporting
instead of reporting once every 90 days.
5
No re-entry permit required to exit and re-enter the country.
6
Get airport fast-track service
for arrivals & departures.

Requirements for Eligibility

Minimum salary of THB 200,000 per month (roughly USD $6,400).
Employment contract for minimum of 1 year with a Thai company or a foreign company with a Thailand-based job post.
The employing company must also receive certification of engagement in a target industry by a relevant government agency.
Hold a position in senior management.

If this sounds like you then the SMART Visa could be your ticket to a luxurious long stay in Southeast Asia’s most appealing and in-demand nation. To get the highest odds of approval, let us do the work for you. Book a free consultation to review your qualifications and get started with your application today.

SMART-S Image

SMART-S

Startup Owners & Entrepreneurs

Smart-S Icon

SMART-S: Startup Owners & Entrepreneurs

Who Is This Type of SMART Visa Meant For?

The S-type SMART Visa is for entrepreneurs building startups that fall into one of the specially-designated industries of Thailand. It’s unfortunately not for just any business founder. Those hoping to gain access to Thailand’s SMART Visa program in this category by opening a restaurant or a small shop will fall short of the qualification endorsement requirements.

Benefits for Visa Holders

1
Up to 2 years of validity renewable.
2
No work permit needed to work in your approved company or government agency.
3
Your spouse & children are also permitted to live and work in Thailand.
4
Once per year reporting
instead of reporting once every 90 days.
5
No re-entry permit required to
exit and re-enter the country.
6
Get airport fast-track service
for arrivals & departures.

Requirements for Eligibility

Must hold a fixed savings account with a balance of no less than THB 600,000 (roughly USD $20,000) with a minimum 1 year remaining on the maturity term.
An additional amount of THB 180,000 (USD $5,800) included in the fixed savings account per person in the case of accompanying spouse and children.
Possess health insurance for the applicant and any accompanying spouse and/or children that covers the entire visa duration.
Participating in a business accelerator or incubator program with relevant government agency endorsement—OR—receiving joint venture funding from a relevant government agency or be endorsed by the agency.
Must set up a company engaged in one of the targeted industries within 1 year, with certification by a relevant government agency.
Hold a minimum 25% share of the company or be a board member.

If you’ve got a startup in one of Thailand’s targeted industries and you’ve either been accepted into a startup accelerator or recognized by one of Thailand’s government agencies, you may very well be a good fit for the SMART-S Visa. We’ll help you sift through the details on your free consultation call.

SMART-S Image

SMART-S

Startup Owners & Entrepreneurs

Smart-S Icon

SMART-S: Startup Owners & Entrepreneurs

Who Is This Type of SMART Visa Meant For?

The S-type SMART Visa is for entrepreneurs building startups that fall into one of the specially-designated industries of Thailand. It’s unfortunately not for just any business founder. Those hoping to gain access to Thailand’s SMART Visa program in this category by opening a restaurant or a small shop will fall short of the qualification endorsement requirements.

Benefits for Visa Holders

1
Up to 2 years of validity renewable.
2
No work permit needed to work in your approved company or government agency.
3
Your spouse & children are also permitted to live and work in Thailand.
4
Once per year reporting
instead of reporting once every 90 days.
5
No re-entry permit required to
exit and re-enter the country.
6
Get airport fast-track service
for arrivals & departures.

Requirements for Eligibility

Must hold a fixed savings account with a balance of no less than THB 600,000 (roughly USD $20,000) with a minimum 1 year remaining on the maturity term.
An additional amount of THB 180,000 (USD $5,800) included in the fixed savings account per person in the case of accompanying spouse and children.
Possess health insurance for the applicant and any accompanying spouse and/or children that covers the entire visa duration.
Participating in a business accelerator or incubator program with relevant government agency endorsement—OR—receiving joint venture funding from a relevant government agency or be endorsed by the agency.
Must set up a company engaged in one of the targeted industries within 1 year, with certification by a relevant government agency.
Hold a minimum 25% share of the company or be a board member.

If you’ve got a startup in one of Thailand’s targeted industries and you’ve either been accepted into a startup accelerator or recognized by one of Thailand’s government agencies, you may very well be a good fit for the SMART-S Visa. We’ll help you sift through the details on your free consultation call.

SMART-S Image

SMART-S

Startup Owners & Entrepreneurs

Smart-S Icon
SMART-S Image

SMART-S

Startup Owners & Entrepreneurs

Smart-S Icon

Who Is This Type of SMART Visa Meant For?

The S-type SMART Visa is for entrepreneurs building startups that fall into one of the specially-designated industries of Thailand. It’s unfortunately not for just any business founder. Those hoping to gain access to Thailand’s SMART Visa program in this category by opening a restaurant or a small shop will fall short of the qualification endorsement requirements.

Benefits for Visa Holders

1
Up to 2 years of validity renewable.
2
No work permit needed to work in your approved company or government agency.
3
Your spouse & children are also permitted to live and work in Thailand.
4
Once per year reporting
instead of reporting once every 90 days.
5
No re-entry permit required to
exit and re-enter the country.
6
Get airport fast-track service
for arrivals & departures.

Requirements for Eligibility

Must hold a fixed savings account with a balance of no less than THB 600,000 (roughly USD $20,000) with a minimum 1 year remaining on the maturity term.
An additional amount of THB 180,000 (USD $5,800) included in the fixed savings account per person in the case of accompanying spouse and children.
Possess health insurance for the applicant and any accompanying spouse and/or children that covers the entire visa duration.
Participating in a business accelerator or incubator program with relevant government agency endorsement—OR—receiving joint venture funding from a relevant government agency or be endorsed by the agency.
Must set up a company engaged in one of the targeted industries within 1 year, with certification by a relevant government agency.
Hold a minimum 25% share of the company or be a board member.

If you’ve got a startup in one of Thailand’s targeted industries and you’ve either been accepted into a startup accelerator or recognized by one of Thailand’s government agencies, you may very well be a good fit for the SMART-S Visa. We’ll help you sift through the details on your free consultation call.

Spouses & Children of SMART Visa Holders

Spouses & Children of SMART Visa Holders

They are Eligible for Their Own SMART Visas

A SMART Visa holder’s spouse and children are eligible for a visa of equal duration. Spouses are allowed to work without a Work Permit provided that the job does not fall into one of the occupations or industries prohibited to foreigners.
In the case of the “SMART T” type visa for highly-skilled experts, their children above the age of 18 are also eligible to work in non-reserved fields without a Work Permit.

How to Apply for The SMART Visa

After you’ve fully understood everything you’ll need to qualify for the SMART Visa you wish to obtain, you can send what you have to us so we can help you review it and make sure you qualify. To do that, start by getting in touch so we can give you a free consultation.

In all cases, the applicant must have their qualifications verified by a relevant government agency in Thailand. These agencies include the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA), National Innovation Agency (NIA), and National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA).

In some cases, multiple government agency endorsements will be required. For example, a Biochemical Engineer applying for the “SMART T” visa to work at a private research lab must obtain one certification to show they have expertise in their scientific field and a second endorsement must be obtained from their employer to show that it operates in one of the specified industries.

Applicants should expect the government agency endorsements to take up to one month. If residing outside Thailand, the requested documents can be submitted at Royal Thai Embassies or Royal Thai Consulates.

If already residing in Thailand, the applicant can submit their documents to the SMART Visa Unit of the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) at Immigration’s One-Stop Service Center (OSS) in Bangkok.

Within 30 working days, the applicant should receive the result of their qualification endorsement application.

If the applicant is currently residing in Thailand on a non-immigrant visa, they must submit their qualification documents to the OSS at least 90 days before their visa expires. When it comes time to renew a SMART Visa, you have to re-apply for qualification endorsements with at least 90 days remaining on your current visa.

Once you have received a letter of qualifying endorsements from the BOI, you can apply for the actual Thailand SMART Visa at any of the Thai Embassies or Royal Consulates (assuming you’re not already in Thailand). If you are residing in Thailand, you can submit the application form and required documents at the one-stop service center for visa and work permits.

The Right Agent Can Make it Possible

And a whole lot easier…

Many people exploring long-term visas for Thailand quickly get discouraged when they encounter the long and complex lists of strict requirements for obtaining one. What they don’t realize, though, is that true eligibility can often be a matter of interpretation. Visa applications sent directly by individuals to the government also have high rejection rates regardless of a candidate’s actual qualifications.

When you connect with an experienced agent in Thailand you gain the help of knowledgeable, qualified professionals whose job it is to know visa law and help get applicants approved, plus key advantages like:

Identifying (often easy) paths you can take to become eligible, if not already
Clarity on exactly what many requirements mean and how most people meet them
The guarantee that all of your important application documents are complete and error-free, prior to submission
Reliable advice on your realistic chances of being approved
Real, attainable alternative options if you’re not eligible for your preferred visa

If you’re serious about getting your long-term visa (of any kind), don’t leave it to chance. A professional agent with a legal background and years of experience getting professionals the results they want is worth having on your side.

Calling All Highly-Skilled Experts

If you’re someone who meets the requirements for any of the types of SMART Visa outlined above, we have corporate clients and business partners that are always looking for capable new talent.

If you’re a tech or tech-adjacent professional with experience looking to live and work in Thailand, drop us a message so we can talk about your options.

SMART Visa Not For You? Consider These Other Options

The LTR Visa or Non-B (Business) Visa Can be Excellent Choices

The LTR Visa or Non-B (Business)

Explore your choices, gain clarity on requirements and make the process simple with professional legal help from some of Bangkok’s leading expat experts.

If you’re not sure where to start or need help getting from points A to B in pursuit of your SMART, LTR, Business or Elite Visa, our team at Siam Visa and Business Law is ready and able to help.

Check out our other recent article all about the best visa options for living and working in Thailand, or schedule your free initial consultation today!

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