Thailand's Long-Term Resident (LTR) visa program has approved 12,010 high-potential foreigners over the past four years, generating an estimated USD 1.28 billion (THB 43 billion) in economic value, according to the Board of Investment (BOI). The visa, introduced in September 2022, is designed to attract executives and highly skilled personnel to reside and conduct economic activities in Thailand, thereby increasing purchasing power and stimulating domestic spending. On average, each recipient has contributed more than USD 107,000 (THB 3.6 million) in economic value, a calculation that includes visa fees, spending in Thailand, direct investment, and tax revenue from highly skilled professionals.
The program's success comes amid intensifying global competition for top talent. As Thailand prepares for a new wave of investment in advanced-technology industries such as semiconductors, advanced electronics, digital technology and AI, humanoid robotics, aviation, and biotechnology, the LTR visa serves as a strategic mechanism to bring global expertise into the country. "The LTR visa is a strategic pillar to attract global talent as Thailand absorbs a new wave of advanced technology investments," said Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary General of the BOI. "Drawing top-tier executives and technical specialists from around the world is vital to strengthening our national competitiveness and securing technology transfers from international partners."
Approved recipients hail primarily from leading economies, with the United States accounting for the largest group at more than 2,400 approvals, followed by Japan with over 1,300 and the United Kingdom with more than 1,000. Japanese nationals are particularly prominent in the specialist bracket, reflecting Japan's deep involvement in Thailand's automotive and precision-electronics supply networks. The 12,010 approved applicants fall into five categories: 1,779 Highly-Skilled Professionals; 1,043 Work-from-Thailand Professionals; 737 Wealthy Global Citizens; 4,561 Wealthy Pensioners; and 3,891 Dependents. Among the Highly-Skilled Professionals and Work-from-Thailand Professionals, 54% hold executive-level positions, 36% are professionals, and the remainder are at the technical level.
To manage rising application volumes and eliminate administrative bottlenecks, the BOI launched an integrated digital processing portal in September 2026. The platform centralizes review procedures across four key state agencies: the Department of Consular Affairs, the Immigration Bureau, the Department of Employment, and the Revenue Department. Complementing the portal is the Thailand Investment and Expat Services Center (TIESC), a one-stop service center located on floors 6-7 of the Parade Zone at One Bangkok. "The center is intended to strengthen Thailand's competitiveness in continuously attracting high-potential talent from around the world," said Mr. Narit.
Beyond the LTR visa, the BOI facilitates visas and work permits for executives and personnel in BOI-promoted businesses through the BOI Visa, and offers the Smart Visa for startups. The agency also supports skills development for Thai personnel through the Skill Bridge measure and helps Thai entrepreneurs adopt modern technology via the Business Transformation measure. These initiatives work together to attract international experts, develop local talent, and upgrade Thai businesses, enhancing Thailand's readiness for a technology- and innovation-driven economy. For more information on BOI services, visit https://www.boi.go.th/en/index/. The announcement was distributed via Media OutReach Newswire.
