In today’s globalized world, many people seek opportunities to live and work in foreign countries for extended periods. One visa option that caters to this need is the Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa. Designed to provide a flexible pathway for individuals who wish to reside in a country for a significant period, the LTR visa has become an increasingly popular choice for many expatriates. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of the LTR visa and summarize the qualifications required to obtain it.
What is the LTR Visa?
Thailand is offering Thailand Long-Term Resident Visa, a program designed to provide a range of tax and non-tax incentives, making the country a more attractive regional hub for both living and business opportunities for high-potential foreigners.
The LTR visa program aims to draw in foreign residents, talent, and technologies that will contribute to domestic spending and investment, while also supporting overall economic growth. The visa offers a stay of up to 10 years, along with a host of attractive benefits for its holders.
Benefits of the Thailand LTR Visa
The LTR Visa provides several advantages over traditional visa options:
- 10-Year Validity: Unlike other visas, the LTR Visa is valid for a decade, reducing the hassle of frequent renewals.
- Multiple Entries: Visa holders can travel in and out of Thailand freely during their visa validity.
- Fast-Track Services: At airports, LTR Visa holders enjoy expedited services.
- 90 day report extended to 1 year
- Permission to work in Thailand: Except for Work-From-Thailand Professional
- Tax exemption for overseas income: Except for Highly-Skilled Professional type
- 17% personal tax rate for Highly-Skilled Professionals
- Family Inclusion: Immediate family members of the LTR visa holders, including spouses and children under 20, can also apply for LTR Visa under “Dependent” type.
Types and Criteria for the LTR Visa
The Thailand Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa offers four categories for foreign individuals. Each category has its own eligibility criteria and applications are evaluated based on its specific requirements.
1. Wealthy Global Citizens
- Owning at least USD 1 million in assets
- Minimum investment of USD 500,000 in Thai government bonds, real estate, or direct investment in company registered in Thailand.
- Minimum annual income of $80,000 over the past two years.
2. Wealthy Pensioners
- Age 50 or older.
- Annual unearned income of USD 80,000
- In case that unearned income is lower than USD 80,000 but not less than USD 40,000, the applicant is to provide the proof of USD 250,000 in Thai government bonds, real estate, or direct investment in company registered in Thailand.
3. Work-From-Thailand Professionals
- Minimum annual income of USD 80,000 over the past two years
- In case of annual income is lower than USD 80,000 but not less than USD 40,000, the applicant is to provide proof of qualification, i.e. a certificate for master’s degree or higher
- Employment with a public company listed on a stock exchange or a private company that has been operating for at least 3 years and generates a minimum of USD 150 million in revenue.
- A minimum of 5 years of work experience within the last 10 years in a field related to the current job position or area of expertise.
4. Highly Skilled Professionals
- The applicant must be employed with either a Thai or foreign company whose activities align with the targeted industries, or they must provide proof of expertise in the fields specified by the BOI.
- Minimum annual income of USD 80,000 over the past two years
No minimum personal income for professionals working for Thai government agencies
- In case annual income is lower than USD 80,000 but no less than USD 40,000 in the past two years, applicants must have a master’s degree or above in science and technology or special expertise relevant to his/her job assignment in Thailand
- At least 5 years of work experience in targeted industries (except for applicants with a PhD in the targeted industries or applicants working for Thai government agencies)
All types above must have health insurance with at least USD 50,000 coverage or social security benefits insuring treatment in Thailand or at least USD 100,000 deposit no less than 12 months.
All LTR visa holders can bring their legal spouses and children under the age of 20 to live in Thailand under the “Dependent” category.
Dependent must have health insurance with at least USD 50,000 coverage or social security benefits insuring treatment in Thailand or at least USD 25,000 deposit no less than 12 months.
Timeline for Application and Approval
Once a complete set of documents has been submitted to the BOI LTR Visa system, the processing time is typically no more than 20 working days.
Government Fee of LTV visa
The government fee for the LTR Visa is THB 50,000, which covers a 10-year period. The visa fee is non-refundable under all circumstances.
LTR Visa vs. Thailand Retirement Visa
The LTR Visa offers more benefits than the Thailand Retirement Visa, including work opportunities and tax incentives. Unlike the Retirement Visa, which requires annual renewal and doesn’t allow employment, LTR Visa offers a more sustainable long-term solution, making it a more attractive option for retirees.
LTR Visa vs. Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)
LTR Visa offers more benefits compared to DTV, including work opportunities and tax incentives. Unlike DTV, which requires frequent renewals, the LTR Visa provides a longer-term solution, making it more convenient for professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs.
Let Thai Relo Services Simplify Your Move
Relocating to a new country can be challenging, but Thai Relo Services makes it easy. Our expert team provides tailored support for a smooth transition to Thailand, guiding you through each LTR visa category’s unique eligibility, benefits, and requirements.
As one of only four Certified Agents (CAs), we specialize in the LTR visa application process. From document consultation to finalizing your application, we offer expert advice every step of the way. Trust Thai Relo Services for personalized support in securing your long-term residence visa in Thailand.
If you’re interested in learning more or need assistance navigating Thailand’s visa possibilities, reach out to us. We’re here to make your transition to living in Thailand as effortless as possible.
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