🇹🇭business Visa

Smart S Startup Visa

Thailand

Last updated: December 29, 2025

Duration

2 years (renewable)

Visa Fee

$290

Time

45 days

Complexity

Medium

About this Visa

This visa is for foreign entrepreneurs who already have a startup company in Thailand. You must own at least 25% of the company or be a director. The company must be in specific tech industries and officially certified by the Thai government. You can work in your startup without getting a separate work permit. Your spouse can also work without a permit. You and your family can stay in Thailand for 2 years at a time. This visa is ONLY for established companies that are already running. If you just have a business idea, you cannot apply yet. You must register your company first and get government approval.

Key Benefits

  • Work without a work permit
  • Spouse can work without a permit
  • Bring spouse and children with their own visas
  • Only one annual report to government required
  • No travel re-entry permits needed
  • 2-year renewable visa with easy renewals
  • Path to permanent residence after 3+ years

Eligibility & Requirements

Eligibility Criteria

  • Have an already-established and operating startup in Thailand
  • Own at least 25% of the company OR be a company director
  • Company must be in approved tech industry
  • Have 600,000 THB in bank account for 3+ months
  • Have valid health insurance
  • Be 18 years old or older
  • Have no criminal record
  • Company must be registered less than 2 years ago

Financial Requirement

Must have 600,000 THB ($19,000 USD) in a bank account for at least 3 months before applying. Additional 180,000 THB ($5,750 USD) per spouse or child. Valid health insurance required that covers entire stay in Thailand. Bank money stays in your account and is not a fee.

Documents

  • Completed application formOfficial BOI form
  • Valid passport copyAll pages required
  • Bank statementsShowing 600,000 THB held for 3+ months
  • Health insurance policyValid coverage for entire stay
  • Business plan or pitch deck1+ page describing your startup
  • Company owner listList of owners and ownership percentages
  • Company registration certificateNot more than 3 months old
  • Company information or annual reportDemonstrates operational status
  • Police clearance certificateRequired for certain nationalities only - check with Thai Embassy
  • Marriage or birth certificatesIf bringing spouse or children

Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.