LTR Visa Thailand (Thailand Long-Term Resident Visa) offers a simple way for you to live and work in Thailand legally for up to 10 years. The Thai government introduced this visa to attract wealthy global citizens and skilled international experts, aiming to boost the country’s economic growth.
Thailand, a key player in the ASEAN region, wants more talented foreign professionals to live, work, and invest within its borders. If this describes you, then the LTR Visa might be a perfect solution to your needs. Unlike other long-term Thai visas, the LTR Visa lets you stay in Thailand for several years without frequent border runs or immigration check-ins. Plus, it allows you to work legally with a work permit and other special privileges.
Let’s take an in-depth look as to why you should consider Thailand’s Long-Term Resident LTR Visa.
Why Apply for an LTR Visa?
An LTR Visa may have stricter requirements than other long-term Thai visas, but it offers more benefits and advantages for those who qualify.
- A 10-year, multiple-entry visa
- Free access to immigration fast-tracking services at Thai international airports
- Report to Thai Immigration once a year instead of every 90 days like other visas
- Certain tax incentives
- A flat 17% tax rate on personal income for LTR Visa holders in the Highly-Skilled Professionals category
- Facilitated work permit and immigration services at the One Stop Service Center
- The opportunity to work legally for a Thai company
LTR Visa holders face fewer immigration hassles and enjoy several financial perks. This makes it a great option for working professionals, investors, entrepreneurs, wealthy retirees, and digital nomads.
Who Is Eligible for the LTR Visa?
There are four different LTR Visa categories each with its own set of requirements. Which one you apply for depends on what you plan to do in Thailand. The four distinct visa categories are:
- LTR Visa for Wealthy Global Citizens
- Must have had an annual income of at least 80,000 USD over the past two years.
- Must own assets worth 100,000 USD.
- Must have invested at least 500,000 USD in Thai government bonds, foreign direct investments, or real estate.
- LTR Visa for Wealthy Pensioners (retirees)
- Must be at least 50 years old.
- Must have an annual passive income of 80,000 USD (excluding employment earnings)
- If you earn between 40,000 to 80,000 USD yearly, you will need to have invested a minimum of 250,000 USD in Thai government bonds, foreign direct investments, or property.
- LTR Visa for Work-From-Thailand Professionals
- Must have had an annual income of at least 80,000 USD for the past two years.
- If you earn between 40,000 to 80,000 USD, you must hold a master’s degree or higher, own intellectual property, or have Series A funding of no less than 1,000,000 USD.
- Must have 5 years of relevant professional experience in the last 10 years.
- Your current employer must either be publicly listed on the International Stock Exchange or a private company in operation for at least 3 years with a combined revenue of at least 150,000,000 USD in the last 3 years.
- LTR Visa for Highly-Skilled Professionals
- Must have had an annual income of at least 80,000 USD for the past two years
- If you earn between 40,000 to 80,000 USD, you must hold a master’s degree or higher in science or technology or possess unique expertise relevant to your role in Thailand.
- Must have 5 years of experience in a specific industry.
- Your current employer must be in an industry targeted by the Thai government, such as government agencies, higher education institutions, specialized training institutions, and research centers.
You must meet all requirements to apply, or your application could be rejected, wasting your time and money. Besides the specific criteria for each category, all applicants need health insurance with at least $50,000 in coverage or a minimum deposit of $100,000 in a Thai bank account.
You can include up to four immediate family members on your Thailand LTR Visa if they meet basic requirements. This option is for legal children under 20 years old and spouses, as long as you can prove the relationship through birth or marriage certificates. Each family member must also have health insurance coverage of at least $25,000.
Applying for an LTR Visa
The processing time for LTR Visa applications usually takes between 1 to 2 months. This depends on your situation, the visa category, and the accuracy of your application. Errors or incomplete information can cause delays or even lead to rejection.
To start the application process, you first need to gather several documents.
- Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa application form (TM94)
- Criteria and Conditions Acknowledgement Form (STM.8)
- Color photocopy of your passport, valid for at least 6 months after the date of application
- A recent, passport-size photo in color against a white background
- Proof of income, such as recent tax returns, bank statements, and pay slips from your employer
- Additional documents (if applicable) like employment contracts and education certificates
A Viable Alternative: The Thailand Elite Visa
If you are unable to meet the above requirements or do not need employment rights in Thailand and just want to relax with luxurious perks, the Thailand Elite Visa is the best alternate option for a long-term stay. This visa is available in durations ranging from 5 to 20 years, and offers a wealth of VIP benefits to enhance your lifestyle. While the Elite Visa does not allow for local employment, it does provide the most convenient and rewarding way to stay in the Land of Smiles.
Contact Siam Legal for Your LTR Visa Application
For a quick, stress-free Thailand Elite or LTR Visa application, Siam Legal International is your best choice in Thailand. With over 20 years of experience, our immigration attorneys and visa consultants offer exceptional, personalized support and application preparation services.
We handle everything from the consultation and document review to submission and dealing with the Thailand Board of Investment. Once approved, we assist in collecting your visa, ensuring you can start enjoying the benefits right away.
The above article is a paid advertorial.