The four ways to qualify

TypeWho it fitsThe core test
Wealthy Global CitizenPeople with significant wealthAt least US$1 million in assets and US$500,000 invested in Thailand (bonds, property or a business), plus income of around US$80,000 a year
Wealthy PensionerRetirees aged 50+Pension or passive income of US$80,000 a year, or US$40,000 plus US$250,000 invested in Thailand
Work-from-Thailand ProfessionalRemote employees of established foreign companiesIncome of around US$80,000 a year (lower with a master's degree or other qualifications), from a sizeable overseas employer
Highly-Skilled ProfessionalSpecialists in targeted industriesIncome of around US$80,000 a year, or less with a master's degree or for some research and government roles

Every applicant also needs health insurance (or a deposit) at the level the BOI sets. The criteria were eased in January 2025, so thresholds differ from many older articles. Check your figures against the BOI's current list.

What you get

  • 10 years of residence, renewed after the first 5 if you still qualify.
  • An annual address report instead of 90-day reports.
  • A digital work permit for the job the visa is based on.
  • Fast-track lanes at major airports.
  • A flat 17% personal income tax rate for Highly-Skilled Professionals.
  • Visas for a spouse and children under 20.

How the application works

  1. Pick your category and gather income, asset and insurance evidence.

  2. Apply online through the BOI's LTR system, which pre-screens eligibility.

  3. After BOI endorsement, collect the visa at a Thai embassy or at the One Stop Service Center in Thailand.

  4. Pay the 50,000 THB fee and register your digital work permit if you will work.

YOUR NEXT STEP

Cost of living