Since 18 February 2025, the SMART visa covers only startup founders (SMART S) and their families (SMART O).
The Talent, Investor and Executive categories (T, I, E) are closed to new applicants. Skilled professionals: see the LTR visa (Highly-Skilled Professional) or the Non-B work visa. Investors: see the LTR visa.
Who qualifies.
- Your startup is in Thailand and certified. It's set up in Thailand and certified as a startup in a targeted industry by a government agency, such as the National Innovation Agency (NIA) or the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (depa).
- You own or run it. You hold at least 25% of the registered capital, or you're a director.
- Funds. At least THB 600,000 in a bank account (Thai or abroad), held for at least 3 months. Plus THB 180,000 for each family member, also held for 3 months.
- Health insurance for the whole stay, for you and your family.
How to apply.
- Apply to the BOI for an endorsement, at the One Stop Service Center in Bangkok or through a Thai embassy or consulate.
- The BOI decides within 30 working days of a complete file.
- With the endorsement letter, get the visa within 60 days, in Thailand or at an embassy.
What you get.
- Up to 2 years per grant. Renew at least 60 days before it ends.
- Work in your certified startup without a separate work permit, in jobs not closed to foreigners.
- A yearly status report to the BOI.
Older BOI pages also list yearly address reporting and no re-entry permit. We confirm the current rules for your case.
Family (SMART O).
- Your legally married spouse and your children can join you.
- Your spouse may work, within your own work rights.
- Health insurance must cover the whole family's stay.
What it costs.
Immigration fee: THB 10,000 per year of visa permission.
How we help with SMART.
- Free eligibility check. About 3 minutes. See which route fits, and any gaps. Preliminary only.
- Talk to a lawyer. A 40-minute video call about your case.
- Document Review · ฿5,000. Our team checks your documents, and a lawyer signs off. Then you apply yourself.
- Full Legal Service · Request a quote. We manage the application. Fixed written quote within 2 business days, before you pay for the service.
Common questions
Who qualifies for the Thailand SMART visa?
Since February 2025, only founders of a certified tech startup in Thailand (SMART S), with at least 25% of the shares or a director role and THB 600,000 in funds, plus their families (SMART O). The Talent, Investor and Executive categories are closed to new applicants.
How long is the SMART visa?
Up to 2 years per grant, renewable while you still qualify.
Do I need a work permit with a SMART visa?
Not to work in your own certified startup, in jobs not closed to foreigners.
How much does the SMART visa cost?
THB 10,000 per year of visa permission (Immigration fee).
Last updated from official sources: 13 October 2026. Preliminary information, subject to lawyer review and the authorities' decision.