Smart S Visa
Thailand
Last updated: December 29, 2025
2 years (renewable)
$300
3 months
High
About this Visa
The Smart S Visa is for foreign entrepreneurs who start tech companies in Thailand. You get a 2-year work visa to run your startup and live in the country legally. You need to own at least 25% of a startup company or be a director. Your company must be new (less than 2 years old) and work in tech, digital, automotive, or other approved industries. You must have about $19,000 saved. You can work at your company without needing a separate work permit. You can bring your spouse and children. You don't have to report to immigration every 90 days. You get fast-track at airports. In February 2025, Thailand cancelled other visa types but kept this one for startups only.
Key Benefits
- Work at your startup without a separate work permit
- Spouse can work in Thailand
- Bring children under 20 years old
- Travel in and out of Thailand freely - no re-entry permit needed
- Annual reporting only (not every 90 days)
- Fast-track at airports
- After 3 years, apply for permanent residence
- After 5 more years, apply for Thai citizenship
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Already started a real company in Thailand (not just planning)
- Own at least 25% of company OR listed as director
- Company is less than 2 years old
- Company works in approved industry (tech, digital, automotive, medical, food, renewable energy, etc.)
- Have $19,116 saved for 3+ months
- Have health insurance
- No serious criminal record
- Company must be certified by Thai government
Financial Requirement
Bank deposit: $19,116 (600,000 Thai baht). The money must sit in your bank account for at least 3 months before you apply. You can keep it in your home country or Thailand. If you bring a spouse or children, add $5,735 (180,000 baht) per person.
Documents
- Valid passportCurrent and valid
- Bank statementShowing $19,116 held for 3 months
- Company registrationNot older than 3 months
- Ownership proofShowing you own 25%+ or are director
- Financial statementsCompany financial records
- Government certificationProof your company is approved by Thai government
- Health insuranceMinimum $15,900 coverage
- Business planPitch deck or business overview
- Criminal record certificateFrom your country of origin
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.