Long Term Visa Thailand – LTR Residency Made Easy

TL;DR: The Long Term Visa Thailand (LTR) is a streamlined residency program for those looking to immigrate to Thailand without annual renewals. Open to wealthy retirees, investors, skilled professionals, and remote executives, it offers a Thailand 10 year visa with multiple-entry privileges, tax benefits, and legal work rights without capital or staffing quotas. Applicants must meet category-specific income, asset, and insurance requirements, with options available for the Thailand long term visa for US citizens.

For many years, Thailand has been a favourite for vacations, retirement, digital nomads, and entrepreneurs. Yet, despite its popularity with travellers and expats, visa options remained limited until recently.

The introduction of Thailand’s Long Term Residency (LTR) visa is a welcome introduction for those who are looking to relocate long term to Thailand without the hassle of annual visa renewals. 

Designed to attract high-value foreign residents, from wealthy retirees to highly skilled professionals, the LTR visa offers a 10-year stay, multiple-entry privileges, tax incentives, and even the possibility to work in Thailand and apply for a Digital Work Permit.

Whether you’re planning to immigrate to Thailand for work, retirement, or investment, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know: eligibility criteria, required documents, costs, benefits, and how to apply. 

Why is Thailand Such a Popular Destination for International Expats?

Thailand combines modern infrastructure, skilled talent, and pro-investment policies to create an ideal environment for business growth. Government initiatives, including BOI incentives, make it easier for foreign investors to establish operations and tap into regional opportunities.

As well as its business appeal, Thailand’s world-class tourism industry attracts millions of visitors each year, adding to its global connectivity and vibrant economy.

Tourism

In 2024, Thailand received 32.40 million international tourists, a 15.1% increase from 2023, though still about 18.8% below the 2019 peak of nearly 40 million. In the first four months of 2025, 12.09 million foreign tourists visited, a slight 0.26% decrease year-on-year, while tourism revenue grew by 5.24%, reaching 576.85 billion baht.

Digital Nomads

Thailand is the world’s third most popular destination for digital nomads overall, however, Bangkok is considered one of the top spots globally.

Thailand’s appeal is based upon its attractive mix of affordability, reliable infrastructure, and high quality of life. According to Instagram data, Thailand has been tagged over 124,000 times with #digitalnomad, with Bangkok alone generating more than 20,000 posts.

Apart from Bangkok, other popular locations for Digital Nomads include Chiang Mai, Koh Phangan, and Krabi.

Entrepreneurship and Startups

Thailand is becoming a leading South East Asian hub for foreign investment. Bangkok’s startup ecosystem grew by 15.1% in 2025, ranking 81st globally, and fintech leads as the largest startup sector in the country. 

Thailand offers well developed infrastructure, a highly educated workforce, and a government that actively welcomes foreign investment. Government support is highlighted through attractive incentives from agencies such as the Board of Investment (BOI), making it easier for businesses to establish and grow in the country.

What is the Long Term Residency Visa in Thailand (LTR)?

The Long Term Visa Thailand, officially known as the Long Term Residency Visa, is a government initiative aimed at attracting high-potential foreign residents who can contribute to the country’s economy, innovation, and global competitiveness. 

To achieve this goal, the LTR is available to four main categories, that have been designed to meet the requirement of different profiles:

1. Wealthy Global Citizens: High-net-worth individuals who invest in Thailand or hold significant assets, helping to stimulate the economy through capital inflows, real estate purchases, and long-term spending.
2. Wealthy Pensioners: Retirees with substantial pension income who bring consistent foreign earnings into the country, supporting the local economy through sustained living and leisure expenditure.
3. Work-from-Thailand Professionals: Remote workers and executives employed by overseas companies who contribute to Thailand’s service sector and enhance international business networks.
4. Highly Skilled Professionals: Experts in targeted industries such as technology, healthcare, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing. Such individuals offer the ability to boost innovation, support high-value industries, and promote knowledge and technology transfer to Thai workers, businesses and institutions.

What are the Benefits of the Thailand Long Term Residency (LTR) Visa?

The Thailand Long Term Residency (LTR) Visa is more than just a way for holders to stay in Thailand longer, it offers security, convenience, and significant advantages that aren’t available to any other types of visa holders in Thailand. 

The main advantages of the LTR Visa include:

10-Year Validity

Granted in two consecutive five-year terms, the LTR Visa offers long-term stability and peace of mind, eliminating the need for frequent renewals.

Multiple-Entry Privileges

Come and go as you please without jeopardising your visa status. This flexibility is ideal for business travellers, investors, and globally mobile professionals.

Work Permit Eligibility

Qualifying applicants can obtain a work permit through a simplified, expedited process, reducing administrative delays and allowing them to start working sooner. 

LTR holders are also exempted from the minimum capital (2 million THB per foreign work permit) and Thai staff ratio (4 Thai employees for each foreign work permit). This removes significant hurdles to foreigners looking to work in Thailand.

Please note, Work from Thailand professionals are not eligible for a Work Permit, as it is not required. 

Attractive Tax Incentives

Holders of the Wealthy Global Citizen, Wealthy Pensioner and Work From Thailand categories are eligible to receive an exemption of all Personal Income Tax remitted into Thailand. 

Highly skilled professionals in targeted industries are not eligible for the exemption of foreign sourced income, but may instead benefit from a flat 17% personal income tax rate, a significant reduction from Thailand’s standard progressive rates.

Family Inclusion

The LTR Visa allows you to include your spouse and up to four dependents, ensuring your family can share in the benefits of living in Thailand.

Streamlined Immigration Services

Enjoy a smoother travel and residency experience with priority lanes at airports and simplified reporting requirements compared to standard visa holders. LTR visa holders are also eligible to use the Thailand Investment and Expat Service Center (TIESC) at One Bangkok. The TIESC offers a much more efficient service compared to the regular immigration departments, meaning LTR holders save more time.

LTR Visa Eligibility Requirements

The LTR Visa is offered under four distinct categories, each with its own specific eligibility criteria. Each category has been designed to target a specific individual and the application requirements reflect this.

While the specific financial and professional thresholds vary between categories, all applicants must demonstrate strong credentials, stable income or assets, and the ability to support themselves and their dependents during their stay. 

The eligibility requirements for the 4 categories of the LTR are as follows:

Wealthy Global Citizens

This category targets high-net-worth individuals who can bring substantial assets and investments into Thailand.

Key Requirements:

• Minimum net worth: USD 1 million in assets, which may include property, investments, or savings. The USD 1 million can be invested anywhere in the world, including Thailand. Proof of your assets will be required as part of the application process
  
• Annual income: At least USD 80,000 over the past two consecutive years.
  
• Investment in Thailand: A minimum of USD 500,000 in one or more of the following:
  
  • Thai government bonds.
  • Freehold property in Thailand.
  • Foreign direct investment in Thai companies.

The USD 500,000 investment in Thailand may be counted as part of the USD 1 million net worth requirement.

Wealthy Pensioners

This category has been designed for retirees who want to immigrate to Thailand and enjoy a long-term, comfortable lifestyle.

Key Requirements:

• Age requirement: 50 years or older at the time of application.
  
• Annual income: At least USD 80,000 from pensions or other passive income sources.

If your pension or passive income is between USD 40,000–80,000 annually, applicants are required invest at least USD 250,000 any or a combination of the following:

• Thai government bonds.
• Freehold property.
• Eligible foreign direct investments.

Important note: Applicants should be aware that any earned income and salaries WILL NOT be eligible for consideration as personal income. Only pensions and passive income will be considered.

Applicants may continue working and are permitted to work in Thailand once their LTR Visa is approved; however, income earned from employment is not counted towards the BOI’s qualifying income requirements.

Work-from-Thailand Professionals 

Aimed at remote executives and skilled specialists who wish to base themselves in Thailand while working for overseas employers.

Key Requirements:

• Employment: The applicant must be employed by any of the following:
  
  • A public company listed on a recognised stock exchange,
    
  • A private company with at least USD 50 million in combined revenue over the past three years.
  • A wholly owned subsidiary of a public company listed on a stock exchange or a wholly owned subsidiary that holds 100% of the shares of a private company. Both options require the company to have at least 3 years of operation and a combined revenue of USD 50 million over the past 3 years.
    
• Professional experience: Minimum of five years’ experience in your field within the last decade.
  
• Income threshold: At least USD 80,000 annually.
  
  • Applicants earning between USD 40,000–80,000 may still qualify if they hold a master’s degree, own registered intellectual property, or work in a targeted industry.

Highly Skilled Professionals

Aimed to experts in key industries that Thailand has identified as a priority and is actively developing.

Key Requirements:

• Industry focus: The applicant must be employed in sectors such as:
  
  • Next-generation automotive.
    
  • Smart electronics.
    
  • Digital and robotics.
    
  • Renewable energy and sustainability.
    
  • Healthcare, biotech, and food processing.
    
• Professional experience: At least five years of relevant industry experience.
  
• Income threshold: Same as for Work-from-Thailand Professionals, USD 80,000 annually, or USD 40,000 if holding a master’s degree, registered intellectual property, or industry-specific qualifications. Please note, any higher level qualifications must be in sciences and technology

Requirements that Apply to all Applicants and Criteria

Regardless of which category you apply under, you must also meet the following baseline criteria:

• Valid passport with at least six months’ validity remaining (longer is recommended).
  
• Proof of health insurance covering at least USD 50,000 in medical expenses OR currently receiving social security benefits in Thailand OR deposit and maintain at least USD 100,000 in bank account balance under the applicant’s name for no less than 12 months throughout your stay in Thailand.
  
• No criminal record in Thailand or your home country.
  
• All documentation must be in English or Thai, and legalised by the relevant authorities.

How to Apply for the Long Term Visa Thailand

For applicants seeking the Long Term Visa Thailand (LTR), the process begins with securing a Qualification Endorsement Letter (QEL) from the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI). This document is highly important as it confirms that you meet the government’s eligibility criteria for this visa type and is required before your LTR visa application can be submitted.

Step 1 – Submitting Your Application and the QEL

Applicants must register and submit their application online, uploading all required documentation. 

As well the completed application form, applicants will be required to provide supporting documents such as:

• Your professional résumé (CV).
• Academic qualifications (diplomas, certificates).
• Proof of employment or relevant industry experience.
• Proof of finances and investments

Once received, the BOI will coordinate with all the relevant government bodies applicable to the application category, such as Immigration, the Department of Consular Affairs, and other agencies to verify your eligibility.

You will typically receive a result within 20 working days, though additional documentation requests can extend the processing time. It’s important to note that decisions on LTR visa qualification endorsements are final and binding.

Step 2 – LTR Visa Issuance

If your eligibility has been approved, the application will move to the pre-approval stage, which generally takes 1–3 working days (or longer if further documents are required). Once completed, the applicant will receive a pre-approval letter from the BOI

Once the pre-approval has been issued, the applicant can apply for their LTR visa at:

• A Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate overseas, or
  
• Thailand Investment and Expat Service Center (TIESC) at One Bangkok.
  

Applications must be made within 60 days of the QEL’s issue date. 

Step 3 – Work Permit Issuance

For Highly Skilled Professionals or holders of the Wealthy Global citizen and pensioner categories (who have found a job or have their own company in Thailand), obtaining a work permit.

Key Points About the LTR Work Permit:

Eligibility – Work permits are available to applicants under the Highly Skilled Professionals category, as well as eligible applicants in the Wealthy Global Citizens and Wealthy Pensioners categories who meet BOI criteria. Work-from-Thailand Professionals under the LTR scheme are exempt from this requirement.

Please note: Holders of the Work-from-Thailand Professional category do not require a work permit.

Application Venue – Work permits can be obtained at theThailand Investment and Expat Service Center (TIESC) at One Bangkok or at designated provincial labour offices.

Required Documents

• Passport with a valid LTR Visa.
• Qualification Endorsement Letter (QEL) issued by the BOI.
• Employment contract with a Thai company, government agency, or BOI-approved organisation.
• Company registration documents (if employed by a Thai entity).
• Recent medical certificate issued in Thailand.

Processing Time – Typically 1–3 working days, although additional documentation requests or verification may cause delays.

Advantages of the LTR Work Permit for Highly Skilled Professionals

The LTR work permit process is considerably more streamlined than standard work permits, reducing both administrative steps and paperwork. Its validity matches with the duration of your Long Term Visa Thailand, meaning fewer renewals and long-term convenience. 

Perhaps most importantly, the usual requirements for a minimum capital investment of THB 2 million per work permit and the quota of four Thai employees per foreign hire are waived. This gives LTR visa holders far greater flexibility to work in Thailand without the constraints of traditional labour regulations.

Pro Tip: To avoid processing delays, make sure all employer documents are current and that the company is ready to provide any additional paperwork requested by the Department of Employment. If you are applying under the Highly Skilled Professional category, obtaining your work permit promptly after your visa is issued will ensure you can begin your role in Thailand without interruption.

Required Documents for the LTR Visa

When applying for the Long Term Visa Thailand, preparing a complete and accurate set of documents is essential to avoid unnecessary delays or rejection. 

Whether you’re a retiree, an investor, or a highly skilled professional looking to immigrate to Thailand, the LTR visa requires proof of identity, financial stability, and adequate health coverage, along with category-specific evidence to confirm eligibility. 

Below is a breakdown of the key documentation you’ll need.

Identity and Financial Evidence

All applicants must present a valid passport with sufficient remaining validity, along with proof of income and/or asset statements. Depending on your category, this may include:

• Wealthy Global Citizens / Wealthy Pensioners – Bank statements to verify net worth, tax returns to confirm annual income, or proof of passive income or investment records showing funds placed in Thai government bonds, freehold property, or foreign direct investment.
  
• Highly Skilled Professionals – An employment contract or offer letter from a Thai company, government agency, or BOI-approved organisation, along with supporting documents such as company registration papers and evidence of relevant qualifications or experience. Education and relevant industry certificates will also be required.
  
• Work-from-Thailand Professionals – Proof of ongoing overseas employment, such as an employment contract, recent payslips, or company reference letters.

Health Insurance Proof

A mandatory requirement for every LTR visa applicant is valid health insurance covering at least: 

• USD 50,000 in medical expenses or, 
• Be currently receiving social security benefits in Thailand or, 
• deposit and maintain at least USD 100,000 in bank account balance under the applicant’s name for no less than 12 months

This coverage must be maintained throughout your stay in Thailand and should be backed by official documentation from your insurer. The requirement applies whether you are applying from overseas or already in the country, and it is particularly important for those who plan to immigrate to Thailand for the long term.

Additional Documents by Category

Each LTR visa category has its own specific requirements. For example, Wealthy Global Citizens may need to submit proof of asset ownership and investment records, Wealthy Pensioners must provide pension statements, Work-from-Thailand Professionals will need an employment contract with an eligible overseas company, and Highly Skilled Professionals must present evidence of their expertise and collaboration with BOI-approved industries or organisations. 

Applicants seeking the long term visa for Thailand or Thailand long term visa for US citizens should ensure these documents are in English or Thai and properly legalised before submission to avoid any processing delays.

Life in Thailand on a Long Term Visa

Living in Thailand under the Long Term Visa Thailand (LTR) offers far more than just the ability to remain in the country for up to a decade. It offers the opportunity of legal employment, a wide variety of housing options, world-class healthcare, and a high quality lifestyle at a fraction of the cost in many Western countries. 

For those looking to immigrate to Thailand, whether for work, retirement, or family, the LTR visa provides stability and flexibility unavailable to other types of visas in Thailand.

Employment Opportunities

One of the most attractive benefits of the LTR visa is the option for qualified categories, such as Highly Skilled Professionals, Wealthy Global Citizens and Wealthy Pensioners to obtain a legal work permit without the restrictions found in traditional employment visas. 

LTR work permits remove the usual minimum capital and Thai employee quota requirements, allowing greater freedom to work in Thailand. 

Property Ownership and Rentals

While foreigners cannot directly own land in Thailand, foreigners are able to obtain full ownership of condominiums and long-term lease agreements (up to 30 years). 

For many, the ability to rent luxury apartments, family homes, or beachfront villas provides the ideal balance between comfort and financial sense. Investors under the Thailand visa long term scheme often combine rental arrangements with property investment to meet both lifestyle and visa requirements.

Access to Healthcare and Education

Thailand is well-known for its high-quality, affordable healthcare system, which is available to long term Thai visa holders in both private and public facilities. 

Major cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket host internationally accredited hospitals with English-speaking staff, making them a top choice for expats. 

For families, access to international schools offering British, American, and IB curricula ensures children receive a world-class education while living abroad. These advantages are particularly appealing for those looking to immigrate to Thailand with their spouse and dependents under the LTR program.

Lifestyle and Cost of Living

Thailand offers an excellent quality of life, whether you prefer the fast pace of Bangkok, the cultural charm of Chiang Mai, or the tropical beaches of the south. The Thailand 10 year visa allows you to enjoy your ideal destination without the disruption of frequent visa renewals. 

Living costs are also surprisingly low compared to Western countries, with affordable housing, dining, and transport, though high end and luxury options are also widely available. 

Conclusion

The Long Term Visa Thailand is a streamlined, 10-year residency option for wealthy retirees, investors, skilled professionals, and remote executives looking to immigrate to Thailand without annual renewals. Offering multiple-entry rights, the ability to legally work without capital or staffing quotas, and access to world-class healthcare and education, the LTR visa is ideal for both lifestyle and business. Whether you’re retiring, investing, or working, the long term visa in Thailand offers stability, flexibility, and the ability to make Thailand your long-term home.

Frequently Asked Questions – Long Term Visa Thailand

What is the Long Term Visa Thailand (LTR) and how does it work?

The Long Term Visa Thailand, officially known as the Long Term Residency Visa (LTR), is a government initiative aimed at attracting high-potential foreign residents who can contribute to the country’s economy, innovation, and global competitiveness. The LTR visa offers a 10-year stay with multiple-entry privileges, tax incentives, and work permission eligibility. Immigration Lexicon provides comprehensive information about this streamlined residency program for educational purposes.

Who is eligible for the LTR visa in Thailand?

The LTR visa is available to four main categories: Wealthy Global Citizens (USD 1M net worth + USD 500K Thai investment), Wealthy Pensioners (50+ years, USD 80K annual pension), Work-from-Thailand Professionals (employed by qualifying overseas companies), and Highly Skilled Professionals (experts in targeted industries). All applicants must have valid health insurance, no criminal record, and meet category-specific requirements. Immigration Lexicon helps you understand these eligibility criteria in detail.

How long can I stay in Thailand with the Long Term Visa Thailand?

The Long Term Visa Thailand allows you to stay up to 10 years, granted in two consecutive five-year terms. This eliminates the need for frequent renewals and provides long-term stability and peace of mind. The visa also offers multiple-entry privileges, allowing you to come and go as you please without jeopardizing your visa status. Immigration Lexicon provides detailed information about visa validity and renewal processes.

Can I work in Thailand on an LTR visa?

Yes, qualifying LTR visa categories can obtain a work permit through a simplified, expedited process. LTR holders are exempted from the minimum capital requirement (2 million THB per foreign work permit) and Thai staff ratio (4 Thai employees for each foreign work permit). However, Work-from-Thailand Professionals are not eligible for a work permit as it is not required for their category. Immigration Lexicon explains the work permit process and exemptions available to LTR visa holders.

What are the income requirements for the LTR visa?

Income requirements vary by category: Wealthy Global Citizens need USD 80,000+ annually for the past two years, Wealthy Pensioners require USD 80,000+ from pension/passive income (or USD 40,000-80,000 with USD 250,000 Thai investment), Work-from-Thailand Professionals need USD 80,000+ (or USD 40,000 with master’s degree/IP/targeted industry role), and Highly Skilled Professionals follow similar thresholds. Immigration Lexicon provides comprehensive information about financial requirements for each category.

What are the main benefits of the Long Term Visa Thailand?

Key benefits include 10-year validity, multiple-entry privileges, work permit eligibility with exemptions from capital and staffing requirements, attractive tax incentives (income tax exemption for some categories, 17% flat rate for others), family inclusion (spouse and up to 4 dependents), and streamlined immigration services with priority lanes. Immigration Lexicon details all the advantages and benefits available to LTR visa holders.

How much does the LTR visa cost and what is the application process?

The application fee for the Long Term Visa Thailand is THB 50,000 per applicant. The process involves obtaining a Qualification Endorsement Letter (QEL) from the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI), which typically takes 20 working days, followed by visa issuance at a Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate or Thailand Investment and Expat Service Center (TIESC). Immigration Lexicon provides step-by-step guidance on the application process and required documentation.

Is health insurance mandatory for the LTR visa?

Yes, all LTR visa applicants must have valid health insurance covering at least USD 50,000 in medical expenses, OR currently receive social security benefits in Thailand, OR deposit and maintain at least USD 100,000 in a bank account for no less than 12 months throughout your stay. This coverage must be maintained throughout your stay in Thailand. Immigration Lexicon explains the health insurance requirements and alternatives available.

Can US citizens apply for the Long Term Visa Thailand?

Yes, the Thailand long term visa for US citizens (LTR) offers the same benefits as for other nationalities, provided you meet the eligibility criteria for at least one of the four categories. US applicants can submit their documents through a Royal Thai Embassy, Consulate, or the Thailand Investment and Expat Service Center (TIESC) in Bangkok. Immigration Lexicon provides country-specific guidance for US citizens applying for the LTR visa.

Can I buy property in Thailand with the LTR visa?

While foreigners cannot directly own land in Thailand, LTR visa holders can fully own freehold condominiums and enter into long-term lease agreements (up to 30 years) for other types of property. Many investors under the Thailand visa long term scheme combine rental arrangements with property investment to meet both lifestyle and visa requirements. Immigration Lexicon provides detailed information about property ownership rules and investment options.

What makes Thailand attractive for long-term residency and immigration?

Thailand combines modern infrastructure, skilled talent, pro-investment policies, world-class tourism industry, and is the third most popular destination for digital nomads globally. In 2024, Thailand received 32.40 million international tourists, and Bangkok’s startup ecosystem grew by 15.1% in 2025. The country offers excellent quality of life, affordable healthcare, international education options, and low cost of living compared to Western countries. Immigration Lexicon provides comprehensive information about living in Thailand on a long-term basis.

Where can I find reliable information about the LTR visa application?

Immigration Lexicon provides comprehensive, educational information about the Long Term Visa Thailand (LTR) application process, eligibility requirements, and benefits. Please note that Immigration Lexicon is not a law firm or immigration agency – all content is purely informative. For official applications and legal advice, consult with qualified immigration attorneys or contact the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) directly.