Thailand's LTR visa draws 12,010 high-potential foreigners, generating £970 million
Thailand's Long-Term Residence visa program has approved 12,010 applicants in four years, creating about £970 million in economic value.
Since its introduction in September 2022, Thailand’s Long-Term Residence (LTR) visa has granted approvals to 12,010 high-potential foreigners, generating an estimated £970 million in economic value, according to the Board of Investment. The average contribution per recipient is about £80,000, covering visa fees, domestic spending, direct investment and tax revenue. Most approved applicants are from the United States (over 2,400), Japan (more than 1,300) and the United Kingdom (over 1,000), and they are classified into five groups such as highly-skilled professionals, remote workers, wealthy global citizens, pensioners and dependents.
To manage rising demand, the BOI launched a digital portal in September 2026 that consolidates reviews by the Department of Consular Affairs, Immigration Bureau, Department of Employment and Revenue Department, supported by the Thailand Investment and Expat Services Center at One Bangkok. Officials describe the visa as a strategic tool for drawing executives and specialists needed for upcoming investments in semiconductors, AI, robotics, aviation and biotechnology. Narit Therdsteerasukdi called the LTR visa a “strategic pillar” for boosting Thailand’s competitiveness and securing technology transfers.
Why it matters
The visa program shows Thailand's push to attract skilled migrants and boost its economy ahead of major tech investments.
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