How to get a Visa Long-Term Resident in Thailand as a foreigner ?

What is an Visa LTR ?

Certain countries, including Thailand, offer a Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa, allowing foreign nationals to stay in the country for an extended period, usually longer than one year. The visa LTR is designed for individuals who want to establish long-term residence for reasons such as retirement, employment, investment, or family reunification.

In Thailand, the Long-Term Resident Visa is known as the Non-Immigrant Visa “O-A” (Long Stay). This visa caters to foreigners aged 50 and above who wish to retire in the country. It permits the holder to stay for one year, with the possibility of extension for additional one-year periods, provided the visa requirements are fulfilled.

Applicants for the Thai Non-Immigrant Visa “O-A” (Long Stay) must show financial stability, usually through proof of sufficient funds or a pension, and meet health insurance requirements. Additionally, applicants may need to undergo medical exams and provide other supporting documents during the application process.

The Long-Term Resident Visa enables eligible individuals to establish a long-term presence in Thailand and fully enjoy the country’s cultural richness, natural beauty, and lifestyle offerings.

Who is eligible for a visa LTR ?

The eligibility criteria for obtaining a Long-Term Resident visa vary depending on the country issuing the visa and the type of LTR visa being applied for. Below is a general overview of the typical eligibility requirements for a Long-Term Resident visa in Thailand:

• Age requirement: In Thailand, the Non-Immigrant Visa “O-A” (Long Stay) is available to individuals aged 50 or older who wish to retire in the country. This age requirement is specific to retirement visas and may differ for other types of extended stay visas.
• Financial requirements: Applicants must show sufficient financial resources to support themselves in Thailand. For retirement visas, they typically need to provide proof of a certain monthly income or savings. This ensures retirees can live in Thailand without relying on employment.
• Health Insurance: Applicants for the Non-Immigrant Visa “O-A” (Long Stay) must have health insurance that meets minimum standards. This ensures retirees can access necessary medical care during their stay.
• Clean criminal record: LTR visa applicants must provide a police clearance certificate or similar documentation to confirm they have no criminal record.
• Medical examination: Some countries, including Thailand, require applicants to undergo a medical examination to ensure they are healthy and pose no public health risk.
• Other requirements: Depending on the LTR visa type and the issuing country, applicants may need to meet additional requirements, such as those related to employment, investment, family reunification, or other factors.

It is important to note that eligibility criteria for LTR visas vary by country and visa type. Individuals interested in applying should review the requirements and procedures outlined by the immigration authorities of the country they wish to visit or reside in.

How do you qualify for the LTR visa in Thailand?

To qualify for the Long-Term Resident Visa in Thailand, applicants must meet specific criteria based on their category. Each category has distinct eligibility requirements, all of which must be satisfied. Applicants must also submit all supporting documents with their application. Furthermore, all applicants, regardless of category, must have health insurance coverage of at least US$50,000 or maintain at least US$100,000 in a Thai bank account.

For Wealthy Global Citizens:

• The current regulations do not set a minimum personal income requirement.
• The applicant must invest a combined total of at least USD 500,000 in Thai government bonds, direct investments in Thai companies, or Thai real estate.
• The applicant must also own at least USD 1,000,000 in assets under their name.
• Additionally, the applicant must have health insurance with a minimum coverage of USD 50,000, receive social security benefits in Thailand, or maintain a minimum balance of USD 100,000 in a personal bank account for at least 12 months before applying.

For Highly Skilled Professionals:

• The applicant must have earned an average personal income of USD 80,000 per year over the last two years.
• If the income falls between USD 40,000 and USD 80,000, the applicant must provide additional documentation, such as a Master’s degree or higher in science and technology fields.
• This income requirement does not apply to applicants working for Thai government agencies.
• The applicant must have an employment contract with a Thai or foreign entity in the targeted industries or show evidence of specialized expertise in fields recognized by the Board of Investment.
• The revenue threshold for eligible companies has been lowered from USD 150 million to USD 50 million.
• There is no minimum work experience requirement under the current BOI regulations.
• ⁠The list of eligible industries has recently expanded to include new sectors, such as disaster and risk management, and integrated innovation.
• The applicant must have health insurance with at least USD 50,000 in coverage, receive social security benefits in Thailand, or maintain at least USD 100,000 in a personal bank account for the past 12 months.

For Work-from-Thailand Professionals: 

• The applicant must have earned an average personal income of USD 80,000 per year over the last two years.
• If the income is between USD 40,000 and USD 80,000, the applicant must submit additional documentation, such as a Master’s degree or an equivalent qualification.
• The applicant must have a valid employment contract with one of the following: (1) a public company listed on a stock exchange; (2) a private company with at least three years of operation and combined revenue of USD 50 million over the past three years; (3) a wholly owned subsidiary of a listed public company or a wholly owned subsidiary of a qualifying private company.
• There is no work experience requirement for this category.
• The applicant must have health insurance with a minimum coverage of USD 50,000, receive social security benefits in Thailand, or maintain at least USD 100,000 in a personal bank account for the 12 months before applying.

For Wealthy Retirees: 

• The applicant must earn a passive income of at least USD 80,000 per year at the time of application. Passive income includes, but is not limited to, pension, rental income, capital gains, dividends, and interest payments.
• If the applicant’s passive income is between USD 40,000 and USD 80,000, they must make an additional investment of USD 250,000 in Thai government bonds, direct investments in Thai companies, or Thai property.
• The applicant must have health insurance with at least USD 50,000 in coverage, receive social security benefits in Thailand, or maintain a minimum balance of USD 100,000 in a personal bank account for the 12 months before applying.

For Spouses and Dependents: 

• Eligible dependents include the applicant’s spouse (including same-sex spouses), parents, and children under 20 years of age.
• There is no longer a limit on the number of dependent family members who may accompany the primary LTR visa holder.
• Each dependent must meet visa documentation requirements and undergo background checks and standard approval procedures.

These criteria serve as guidelines for determining eligibility for the LTR visa in Thailand. Each category is tailored to specific circumstances and qualifications.

What are the requirements to obtain a Long-Term Resident Visa in Thailand?

To obtain a Long-Term Resident Visa (commonly known as the Non-Immigrant Visa “O-A” or Long Stay) in Thailand, applicants must meet specific requirements and provide necessary documentation:

• Age requirement: Applicants must be 50 years or older, primarily for retirees wishing to stay in Thailand long-term.

• Financial requirements: Applicants must prove financial stability, often through monthly income or savings. The exact requirements vary but are designed to ensure that retirees can support themselves without working in Thailand.

• Medical insurance: Health insurance is required, covering medical expenses, inpatient, and outpatient care for the entire stay in Thailand.

• Medical certificate: A certificate from a registered medical practitioner is needed, confirming the applicant is free from infectious diseases such as leprosy, tuberculosis, drug addiction, elephantiasis, and tertiary syphilis, and does not have a condition that could endanger public health.

• Police clearance certificate: A criminal record check or police clearance from the applicant’s home country (or a country of long-term residence) is required to prove no criminal history.

• Passport validity: The passport must be valid for at least 18 months from the date of entry into Thailand.

• Visa Application: Applicants must submit their visa application and supporting documents to the Thai embassy or consulate in their home country or residence.

• Other supporting documents: Additional documents, such as proof of accommodation and marriage certificates, may be required depending on the applicant’s situation.

It’s crucial for applicants to verify the latest requirements with the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate to ensure compliance with the visa application process.
You can learn more about the government’s LTR visa requirements on the Thailand Board of Investment’s official website.

What is the procedure for obtaining a Long-Term Resident Visa in Thailand?

The process for obtaining a Long-Term Resident Visa (Non-Immigrant Visa “O-A” or Long Stay) in Thailand involves several steps:

Step 1. Preparation and Documentation: Gather all required documents, such as proof of financial stability, medical insurance, a medical certificate, police clearance, and a valid passport. Ensure the documents meet the specific requirements of the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your country.

Step 2. Submit your application: Submit your application and documents to the nearest Thai Embassy or Consulate. Some locations may require an appointment in advance.

Step 3. Processing your application: The embassy or consulate will process your application. Processing times vary based on the location and application volume.

Step 4. Visa Issue: If approved, the embassy or consulate will issue your visa, which will be stamped in your passport, stating the length of your stay in Thailand.

Step 5. Travel to Thailand: Once you have your visa, you can travel to Thailand within the visa’s validity period.

Step 6. Arrival in Thailand: Present your passport with the Long-Term Resident Visa to Thai immigration officials upon arrival. You may be asked to complete an Arrival/Departure Card and undergo a brief interview.

Step 7. Notification of address: Within 24 hours of arrival, report your address to the nearest immigration office or local police station. Failure to do so may result in fines.

Step 8. Extending your stay: If you wish to stay longer, apply for an extension at the Immigration Office. Extensions are usually granted in one-year increments.

Stay updated on any changes by consulting the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate for the most current information.

What is the cost of a LTR visa in Thailand?

The cost of a Long Stay Visa in Thailand depends on several factors, including the type of visa, the applicant’s nationality, and the specific application requirements. The Non-Immigrant Visa “O-A” (Long Stay), one of the most common LTR visas for retirees, has specific fees.

The fees for the Non-Immigrant Visa “O-A” (Long Stay) are approximately as follows:

• Visa Fee: The Non-Immigrant Visa “O-A” fee is around 5,000 Thai Baht (THB) for most nationalities. However, fees may vary slightly based on the applicant’s country, so it is important to confirm the exact fee with the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

• Health insurance: Applicants for the Non-Immigrant Visa “O-A” (Long Stay) must have health insurance that meets the standards set by the Thai Immigration Department. The cost of health insurance depends on factors such as age, coverage limits, and pre-existing conditions.

• Other expenses: In addition to the visa fee and health insurance, applicants may incur additional costs, such as document certification, translation services, and transportation to the Thai embassy or consulate for visa submission.

Visa fees and requirements may change over time, so it is recommended to check the latest information on the official website of the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in your country or contact them directly for the most up-to-date details regarding the cost of a Visa LTR in Thailand.

Conclusion 

The LTR Visa provides a unique opportunity for foreign investors, professionals, retirees, and their families to settle in Thailand under favorable conditions. With a 10-year validity, simplified immigration procedures, work authorization, and tax incentives (such as a 17% flat rate for experts), the visa is designed to attract talent and capital from around the world.

By easing requirements for work experience and expanding eligible sectors, Thailand is positioning itself as a competitive destination in Asia. For those planning to live, work, or invest in the Kingdom, the LTR Visa offers both stability and appeal.

For support with your application, our team at Benoit & Partners is here to guide you through every step of the process.

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