Published by Settle in Abroad – Your Trusted Relocation Partner in Thailand
Thailand’s Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa is designed to welcome global professionals, wealthy individuals, and retirees who want to enjoy life in Thailand for up to 10 years. At Settle in Abroad, we’re here to make your application process smooth and stress-free, so you can focus on your plans without getting lost in bureaucracy.
Below, you’ll find a clear overview of each LTR Visa category, the eligibility requirements, and how we can help.
What is the LTR Visa?
The LTR Visa is a special Thai visa allowing eligible foreigners to stay in Thailand for up to 10 years, in two 5-year increments. This visa also offers significant benefits, such as streamlined reporting requirements and the option to include your spouse and children under dependent visas.
Categories of LTR Visa
There are four main types of LTR Visas. Here’s a detailed look at who qualifies for each:
1. Work from Thailand Professional
This category is ideal for remote employees working for large, reputable companies abroad who want to live in Thailand while maintaining their overseas employment.
Requirements:
Income: You must have earned at least $80,000 USD per year over the last 2 years.
If your income falls between $40,000 and $80,000, you can still qualify if you meet one of these additional criteria:
Hold a Master’s degree or higher
Have Series A funding (a formal round of venture capital investment)
Own registered intellectual property
Employer Qualifications:
The company must be listed on a public stock exchange (you’ll need to provide the stock symbol), or
Be a private company operating for at least 3 years with combined revenues of $150 million USD over that period. Private companies must supply an audited financial report as proof.
Work Experience:
You need at least 5 years of professional experience in your field within the past 10 years, documented through reference letters or contracts.
2. Highly Skilled Professional
This option is for individuals currently employed in Thailand in specialized fields.
Requirements:
Current Employment: You must already be working for a Thai company, institution, or government agency.
Income: Annual income of at least $80,000 USD for the past 2 years.
If your income is between $40,000 and $80,000, you must either hold a Master’s degree in a relevant area or have specialized expertise connected to your role.
Experience:
At least 5 years of experience in your field, or
A PhD in a targeted industry.
3. Wealthy Global Citizen
If you are a high-net-worth individual who wants residency privileges in Thailand, this category may suit you best.
Requirements:
Assets: A minimum of $1 million USD in total assets.
Income: Personal income of at least $80,000 USD annually over the last 2 years.
Investment: You must invest at least $500,000 USD in Thailand. Qualifying investments include:
Thai real estate (such as condominiums)
Government bonds
Other approved investments
This investment counts toward your $1 million in total assets.
4. Wealthy Pensioner
This visa is designed for retirees seeking to enjoy their golden years in Thailand.
Requirements:
Age: You must be at least 50 years old.
Income: Annual passive income or pension of $80,000 USD or more.
If your income is between $40,000 and $80,000, you can still qualify by investing $250,000 USD in one of the following:
Thai real estate (condominiums)
Thai government bonds (with a maturity of over five years)
Equity in a limited or public Thai company, or in a registered venture capital firm (excluding investments in the Stock Exchange of Thailand)
Bringing Your Family
Dependents—your spouse and children—are eligible for visas linked to your LTR, making it easier to move your household together.
Our LTR Visa Services
Settle in Abroad offers complete assistance with your LTR Visa.
Our services include:
Pre-screening your documents with Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) to ensure nothing is missing and you meet all qualifications before submitting.
Preparing and managing all paperwork and applications.
Communicating on your behalf with the BOI and the LTR Visa team.
Booking appointments, troubleshooting any issues, and providing regular updates so you’re never left wondering what’s happening.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get the LTR Visa?
The process typically takes around 30 days once your documents are submitted.
Do I need to be in Thailand to apply?
No. You can apply either from within Thailand or from abroad. When your visa is approved, you can collect it at Bangkok Immigration or at a Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
When do I pay the visa fee?
The ฿50,000 visa fee is paid directly to Immigration or the Embassy when you collect your visa. If you will have an employer in Thailand, you’ll also pay an annual ฿3,000 work permit fee.
How long is the visa valid?
The initial visa is valid for 5 years. After that, you must re-submit updated documents to prove you still meet the requirements to receive the second 5-year extension.
What if my income or job situation changes?
It’s very important to notify us immediately if you experience any changes to your financial situation or employment so we can update the LTR Unit and ensure you remain compliant.
Do I need to do 90-day reporting like other visa holders?
No. One of the benefits of the LTR Visa is annual reporting instead of every 90 days. You will only need to check in with Thai Immigration once per year either by mail or in person.
Additional Notes for LTR Applicants
Changes in income, employment, or investments must be reported immediately
Passive income and investment types for retirees must meet government criteria
We offer assistance with supporting services such as condo purchases, Thai insurance, and banking solutions
