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Includes the complete LTR vs DTV comparison, step-by-step BOI application guide, January 2025 reform summary, and tax benefits explained.
thaibk.com/visas • Updated March 2026
Thailand's Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa is the most significant visa reform the country has introduced in a generation. Launched in September 2022 and substantially reformed in January 2025, it offers wealthy individuals, retirees, remote workers, and highly skilled professionals a 10-year residency pathway with tax advantages that no standard visa category can match.
This guide covers everything you need to know as of March 2026: the four LTR categories and their updated eligibility criteria, the January 2025 reforms and what changed, the complete LTR versus DTV comparison, the step-by-step BOI application process, and the tax benefits that make the LTR genuinely transformative for the right applicant.
This guide is accurate to March 2026. Thailand's BOI updates LTR criteria periodically. Always verify current requirements at ltr.boi.go.th and seek independent legal advice before applying.
The Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa is a 10-year, multiple-entry non-immigrant visa administered by Thailand's Board of Investment (BOI). It is issued in two consecutive five-year terms and targets four groups of high-potential foreign nationals: wealthy global citizens, wealthy pensioners, work-from-Thailand professionals, and highly skilled professionals.
Unlike standard long-stay visas, the LTR carries a package of benefits that go far beyond simply the right to remain in Thailand. These include a flat-rate or zero tax treatment on qualifying income, a streamlined digital work permit, annual reporting instead of 90-day reporting, fast-track airport immigration, and family inclusion for an unlimited number of dependants.
Two consecutive 5-year periods. Multiple entry. No minimum physical stay requirement.
Replaces the standard 90-day TM47 requirement. File once per year via the BOI portal.
Exempt from Thai Personal Income Tax on foreign-sourced income — regardless of when it is remitted.
Highly Skilled Professionals pay a flat 17% rate on Thai-sourced employment income.
The foreign income tax exemption under Royal Decree 743 is the LTR's most commercially significant benefit for British expats. It directly protects pension income, investment returns, and rental income remitted from the UK from Thai personal income tax — regardless of when that income was earned.
Previously needed USD 80k/yr. Now only USD 1 million in worldwide assets (incl. USD 500k in Thai assets like bonds or property).
Minimum revenue threshold for employers reduced from USD 150M to USD 50M. Series A startups now recognised.
Prior work experience no longer required. Academic degrees and professional certifications are now sufficient.
The previous cap of 4 dependants was removed. Same-sex marriages officially recognised for LTR applications.
As of March 2026, the LTR programme is stable. Applications continue under the framework confirmed in February 2025.
USD 1M+ worldwide assets
USD 500k in Thai assets
0% tax on foreign income
Age 50+
USD 80k/yr income OR
USD 40k + USD 250k investment
0% tax on foreign income
USD 80k/yr income
Employer revenue USD 50M+
0% tax on foreign income
BOI-targeted industry
USD 80k/yr income
Master's or PhD
17% flat tax rate
The LTR visa requires health insurance covering at least USD 50,000 per policy year. Pacific Cross international health insurance meets this requirement, is OIC-approved, and is accepted for LTR applications. Contact our partner for a tailored quote.
| Feature | LTR Visa | DTV Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 10 years (5+5) | 5 years |
| Stay per entry | Annual reporting only | 180 days (extendable) |
| Tax on Foreign Inc. | Exempt (Decree 743) | Taxable if 180+ days here |
| Work Permit | Included (Digital) | Foreign clients only |
Choose the LTR if you plan to spend 180 or more days per year in Thailand, have significant foreign-sourced income you want to remit tax-free, or want the stability of a 10-year residency without 90-day reporting.
visa.boi.go.th — upload all documents digitally. Full process averages 4 to 8 weeks.
Wait ~20 working days for review. BOI will notify you by email once endorsed.
Receive pre-approval and collect at TIESC Bangkok (now at One Bangkok) or a Thai Embassy.
Fast-track process after visa issued. LTR holders are exempt from the 4:1 Thai employee ratio rule.
Document preparation errors are the most common cause of rejection. Isaan Lawyers and Anglo Siam Legal offer fixed-fee LTR application support.
Browse Vetted FirmsEntirely exempt from Thai Personal Income Tax on foreign-sourced income remitted to Thailand, regardless of when it was earned. Directly protects pensions and UK investment returns.
Fixed 17% rate instead of up to 35% on Thai-sourced employment income in BOI-targeted industries. Significant for high earners in tech and healthcare.
THAIBK recommends consulting Carl Turner at Expat Tax Thailand for independent tax advice.
Choosing the right visa is a critical decision. Use the THAIBK advisory tocompare your options and find your path.