Thailand•Asia1 month
Free
2 years
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
No dependents
PR Pathway
None
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Renewable 2-year visa for foreign tech startup founders in Thailand, with spouse work rights.
The SMART Visa Startup is Thailand's work visa for entrepreneurs founding certified startups in digital technology, robotics, and biotechnology. Issued by the Board of Investment, it requires at least 25% ownership and a 600,000 THB savings deposit. Unlike traditional Thai work visas, it eliminates requirements for a local partner or high minimum capital.
The visa grants up to 2 years per issuance and is renewable. No work permit is required for the certified venture, and administrative reporting occurs only once yearly. Spouses and children receive the same duration and may work without separate permits. Processing takes approximately 30 days.
This visa is ideal for tech founders relocating to Thailand with a certified S-Curve industry venture, seeking long-term residence and spousal work rights.
| Initial grant | 2 years |
Must be a founder of a technology-based startup in one of Thailand's targeted industries.
Startup must be certified by relevant government agencies (e.g., NIA, DEPA).
Must hold at least 25% ownership or be a director of the company.
Minimum bank deposit of 600,000 THB (or equivalent) held for at least 3 months (additional 180,000 THB per dependent).
Valid health insurance covering the entire period of stay for the applicant and any accompanying family.
Must be at least 18 years old.
Min. Savings
600,000 EUR
Valid passport (at least 6 months validity).
Official endorsement letter from the relevant government agency.
Proof of startup certification.
Company registration documents (e.g., shareholder list, director appointment).
Bank statements showing the required deposit held for 3+ months.
Health insurance policy document.
Completed application forms.
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