What is smart visa in Thailand and the process to get it

The SMART Visa is a special visa program introduced by the Thai government to attract highly skilled professionals, investors, executives, and entrepreneurs to contribute to the development of Thailand’s targeted industries. The SMART Visa program aims to facilitate the entry and stay of these individuals by providing various privileges and streamlined processes.

The SMART Visa offers four categories, each with its own specific requirements:

SMART Visa for Talents (T Visa): This category is for highly skilled professionals in targeted industries such as technology, science, research, and development. Eligible applicants must have a minimum monthly salary requirement or hold a specific position in a qualifying company.

SMART Visa for Investors (I Visa): This category is for investors who make significant investments in targeted industries in Thailand. The investment must meet certain criteria, such as minimum investment amounts and investment in qualifying industries.

SMART Visa for Executives (E Visa): This category is for high-level executives of qualifying companies investing in targeted industries. The company must meet specific criteria, including a minimum paid-up capital requirement.

SMART Visa for Startups (S Visa): This category is for entrepreneurs who have successfully established startups in Thailand that are endorsed by government-supported agencies or organizations.

The process to obtain a SMART Visa generally involves the following steps:

Eligibility Check: Determine which category of the SMART Visa you qualify for and ensure you meet the specific requirements.

Application Submission: Prepare the required documents and submit the application to the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) or the relevant government agency for endorsement.

Endorsement and Approval: The application will be reviewed by the relevant government agency, and if approved, an endorsement letter will be issued.

Visa Application: With the endorsement letter, apply for the SMART Visa at the Thai embassy or consulate in your home country or at the One-Stop Service Center for Visas and Work Permits in Thailand.

Visa Issuance: If the application is successful, you will be issued a SMART Visa allowing you to enter and stay in Thailand for the specified period.

Benefits of SMART Visa:

Longer stay: SMART Visa holders can stay in Thailand for a duration of up to four years without the need for visa runs or extensions.

Multiple entries: The visa allows for unlimited entries and exits during the visa validity period.

Family benefits: Eligible dependents, such as spouses and children, can also obtain SMART Visas.

Work without a work permit: SMART Visa holders are exempt from obtaining a separate work permit.

Convenient visa extensions and re-entry permits: SMART Visa holders enjoy simplified processes for extending their stay and obtaining re-entry permits.