How to Get a Thai Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa

Thailand’s Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa is a special visa designed to attract wealthy and highly skilled foreigners who want to live in Thailand for an extended period. It offers a 10-year visa with multiple benefits, including reduced tax rates and, in some cases, work permit privileges.

Let’s look into the Long-Term Resident Visa shortly the LTR visa.

1. What is the Thai LTR Visa?

The LTR Visa is a 10-year multiple-entry visa, divided into two renewable 5-year terms. It is designed for wealthy individuals, retirees, skilled professionals, and investors who want to stay in Thailand long-term.

2. Who is Eligible for the LTR Visa?

There are five categories under the LTR Visa program:

1. Wealthy Global Citizens

Must have at least $1 million in assets
Minimum $80,000 annual income for the past two years
Invest at least $500,000 in Thailand (real estate, bonds, or companies)

2. Wealthy Pensioners (Retirees)

Must be 50 years or older
Minimum $80,000 annual pension or retirement income
If income is between $40,000–$80,000 per year, must invest $250,000 in Thailand

3. Work-from-Thailand Professionals (Digital Nomads & Remote Workers)

Must work for a foreign company with at least $150 million in revenue over the past 3 years
Minimum $80,000 annual income (or $40,000 if holding a Master’s degree or working in tech fields)
At least 5 years of work experience in a relevant field

4. Highly Skilled Professionals

Must work in targeted industries (e.g., technology, healthcare, renewable energy)
Minimum $80,000 annual salary (or $40,000 with a Master’s degree in a relevant field)
At least 5 years of work experience

5. Dependents (Spouse & Children)

Spouse and children (under 20 years old) of an LTR Visa holder can apply
Maximum 4 dependents per applicant

3. Benefits of the LTR Visa

10-year multiple-entry visa (renewable after 5 years)
Work permit included (no need for a separate work permit application)*
Tax benefits (flat 17% income tax for certain professionals)
Fast-track immigration service
No need for 90-day reporting (unlike other long-term visas)

Other post: Thailand’s new ‘Digital Nomad Visa’: Opportunities for remote workers, students

4. How to Apply for the LTR Visa

1. Prepare required documents

Passport
Proof of income/assets (bank statements, tax returns)
Employment contract (for professionals)
Investment documents (if applicable)

2. Submit Application Online

Apply through Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI) website
Processing time: Around 1–3 months

3. Get Approval & Obtain Visa

Once approved, applicants receive a pre-approval letter
The visa can be stamped at a Thai embassy/consulate or at the BOI One Stop Service Center in Thailand

4. Apply for a Work Permit (if needed)

Work permit applications are processed through BOI
Can be done online or at the One Stop Service Center

5. Costs & Fees

Application Fee: 50,000 THB per person
Work Permit Fee: Additional 3,000 THB per year (if applicable)

6. Common Questions & Issues

Can I work in Thailand with an LTR Visa?
Yes, but only if you are under the “Work-from-Thailand” or “Highly Skilled Professional” categories.
Do I need health insurance?
It is not mandatory, but it’s recommended for medical coverage.
Can I bring my family?
Yes, but only up to 4 dependents (spouse and children under 20).

5. Conclusion

The LTR Visa is a great option for foreigners who meet the financial and professional requirements. It provides a long-term stay, work privileges, and tax benefits, making it ideal for retirees, remote workers, and investors who want to make Thailand their home.

*Can everyone work with an LTR Visa?

No, not everyone with an LTR Visa can work in Thailand. Work permission depends on the visa category. Here’s how it works:

Who Can Work with an LTR Visa?

Work-from-Thailand Professionals (Remote Workers/Digital Nomads)
Highly skilled Professionals
These categories include a digital work permit, meaning holders can legally work in Thailand.
The work permit is tied to their job (remote work or employment in a targeted industry).

Who CANNOT Work with an LTR Visa?

🚫 Wealthy Global Citizens
🚫 Wealthy Pensioners (Retirees)
🚫 Dependents (Spouse & Children)

These categories do not include work permission.
If they want to work, they must apply for a separate work permit (if eligible).

Important Notes on Work Permits

Work permits under the LTR Visa are issued through Thailand’s Board of Investment (BOI).
LTR Visa holders don’t need a traditional work permit, but they must register through BOI to work legally.
The work permit is digital and linked to the visa.

How Closer Law Can Help

Getting familiar with these new regulations can be complex, and that’s where our expertise at Closer Law comes in. Our team of experienced immigration lawyers can:

Provide detailed guidance on which visa option best suits your situation
Assist with the application process for the new DTV or other visa types
Help you understand the implications of these changes for your long-term plans in Thailand
Offer support in meeting the requirements for various visa options

Whether you’re a digital nomad looking to make Thailand your base, a business owner navigating employee visas, or a retiree planning your long-term stay, we’re here to ensure you have the most up-to-date information and expert support.

At Closer Law, we are committed to ensuring your time in Thailand is safe and enjoyable. Whether you’re here for a short visit or planning to stay long-term, our team is ready to assist you with any legal challenges you may face. Contact us today for reliable and professional legal support.

Stay Informed with Closer Law

As these changes are relatively new, we expect further clarifications and possibly additional updates in the coming months. At Closer Law, we’re committed to keeping our clients informed about any developments that may affect their stay in Thailand.

For personalized advice on how these changes impact your specific situation, or for assistance with any aspect of Thai immigration law, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Our team is ready to help you make the most of these new opportunities in Thailand. This expanded blog post provides more detailed information, includes sections addressing different aspects of the immigration updates, and offers insights into how these changes might affect various groups of expats.

It also reinforces your law firm’s expertise and availability to assist clients with these new regulations.