The SMART Visa is a special type of visa for foreign professionals and investors who wish to work or invest in Thailand in 10 targeted industries, which include next-generation automotive, smart electronics, medical and wellness tourism, agriculture and biotechnology, robotics, aviation and logistics, biofuels and biochemicals, digital, creative, and tourism.
To be eligible for a SMART Visa, applicants must meet certain criteria depending on the targeted industry, such as having a certain level of income, educational background, work experience, or investment capital. The requirements for each industry are determined by the Board of Investment of Thailand (BOI).
The SMART Visa offers several benefits, including a longer duration of stay of up to 4 years, no work permit required, and no re-entry permit required. SMART Visa holders can also bring their spouses and children to Thailand, and their spouses can work in Thailand without having to apply for a work permit.
To apply for a SMART Visa, applicants must submit their application to the designated agencies, such as the BOI, the Thailand Science Park, or the National Innovation Agency. The processing time for a SMART Visa application can vary depending on the designated agency.
It is important to note that the SMART Visa is only available to applicants who meet the specific criteria for each targeted industry and have been approved by the designated agency.