Thailand opens its doors to foreign professionals

As part of its strategy to strengthen economic leadership, the Thai government is taking steps to make the country a key center of attraction for skilled expatriates and professionals in priority sectors of the economy. This innovation aims to strengthen the competitive advantage of the national economy and create a favorable environment for investors and talent from around the world.

In support of this initiative, the Board of Investment in Thailand (BOI) is working with the Immigration Department (IB) and the Ministry of Labor to establish the One-Start-One-Stop Shop (OSOS) Investment Center. The center will offer a simplified registration and permit system that will not only make it easier to do business in Thailand, but also make the country more attractive to the international professional community.

Thailand already has visa programs that attract foreign professionals and investors:

• The Smart Visa is designed to attract experts and investors working in priority sectors and to support startups, mainly from countries such as the US, Russia, the UK, Japan and Germany. The program is part of Thailand's strategy to foster innovation and strengthen economic growth by attracting international talent and capital.
• The LTR (Long-Term Resident) visa aims to attract four categories of foreigners with high potential: highly skilled professionals, professionals working remotely from Thailand, high-income earners, and retirees who may come to the country with their spouses or local partners. The LTR visa grants the right to reside in Thailand for up to ten years, with the possibility of unlimited entries and the right to work, making it one of the most attractive visa programs in the region.

In addition, the introduction of a new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is being discussed, which will simplify the registration process for foreign nationals with digital skills. This visa will grant them the right to visit Thailand multiple times for a period of five years. During each year, the stay is limited to 180 days. If necessary, the stay can be extended for another 180 days without leaving the country, after paying a visa fee of 10,000 Thai Baht.

Thailand is thus opening its doors to people of all ages, offering permanent residency opportunities to those who can contribute to the country's economy, whether through investment, professional skills or other valuable resources. This strategic decision is aimed at enhancing the country's economic, innovation potential and Thailand's social well-being.