Dreaming of living and working in Thailand? The country’s Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa programme, a 10-year residency initiative, just became more accessible with new changes approved by Thailand’s cabinet. Designed to attract skilled professionals, wealthy foreigners, and investors, the revised rules aim to reduce barriers and encourage more applicants.

The LTR visa, launched in 2022, offers benefits such as a digital work permit, tax privileges, and now includes fewer restrictions on eligibility.

Are Indians eligible for the visa? Yes, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

One key change is the removal of the minimum annual income requirement for the wealthy global citizens category, making it easier for applicants with cumulative wealth or significant investments to qualify.  

Corporate requirements have also been eased, with the minimum revenue threshold for sponsoring foreign companies reduced from $150 million to $50 million over the past three years. Employees of multinational subsidiaries are now eligible, provided the parent company’s financial stability is demonstrated.

In addition, highly skilled professionals benefit from expanded target sectors, which now include disaster management and integrated innovation. A prior condition requiring five years’ work experience in a relevant field has also been dropped.

The programme has also become more family-friendly, with no limits on the number of dependents visa holders can bring. Parents and legal dependents can now live in Thailand alongside the primary applicant, compared to the earlier restriction of four dependents.

“Smooth visa procedures are an essential part of our focus on the ease of doing business,” said Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary-General of the Board of Investment in a statement. “These changes will position Thailand as a global hub for investment and talent.”

For Indian applicants, the process is straightforward:  

1. : Categories include wealthy global citizens, wealthy pensioners, work-from-Thailand professionals, and highly skilled professionals.  

2. These include a valid passport, proof of income or assets, health insurance covering Rs 43 lakh or more, and proof of investment where applicable.  

3. Visit the official Board of Investment portal (https://ltr.boi.go.th), create an account, upload documents, and pay the Rs 1.2 lakh processing fee.  

4. : Applications are reviewed within 20 business days, and successful candidates receive pre-approval via email.  

5. After pre-approval, visit a Thai consulate or Immigration Office in Thailand to complete the process and pay the fee.  

Applications can also be processed locally if you’re already in Thailand on another visa. The programme has already attracted over 6,000 applicants, with Europeans leading the pack. By easing the application process and reducing barriers, Thailand hopes to boost investment and secure its place as an attractive destination for global talent.

Thailand's Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa categorises applicants into groups like Wealthy Global Citizens, Wealthy Pensioners, Work-from-Thailand Professionals, and Highly Skilled Professionals. Each category has specific criteria and financial requirements that applicants must meet.

This category targets affluent individuals who can contribute significantly to the Thai economy. Eligibility criteria include:

: At least $1 million in assets.

A minimum of $500,000 invested in Thai government bonds, real estate, or a similar asset class.

An annual income of $80,000 or more for the past two years.

: A coverage of at least $50,000 or proof of self-insurance.

Designed for retirees who wish to spend their later years in Thailand, this category requires:

: 50 years or older.

: At least $80,000, or $40,000 annually with an additional investment of $250,000 in Thai bonds or real estate.

: Coverage of $50,000, or alternative proof of self-insurance.

This category is for remote workers employed by well-established international companies. The requirements include:

: Work for a public company listed on a stock exchange or a private company generating at least $150 million annually.

: At least $80,000 annually for the past two years or $40,000 annually with a Master’s degree, intellectual property, or relevant work experience.

: A minimum of five years in the same industry.

Coverage of at least $50,000.

Aimed at specialists in targeted industries such as technology, healthcare, or infrastructure, the criteria are:

At least 10 years in a relevant field.

: At least $80,000 or $40,000 with a Master’s degree in the relevant field.

: Must work for a company in a targeted industry or a Thai government agency.

: Coverage of $50,000 or equivalent proof of self-insurance.