🧐 Startup visa
✨ Extendable
SMART Visa S (Startup)
Updated:
Duration
180 days
Required income
Flexible
Program cost
$ 185
Processing
20–60 days
The SMART S Visa is strictly tied to an innovative startup in BOI-promoted sectors. You must remain actively involved in day-to-day management, submit annual progress reports and maintain the minimum capital level. Failure to comply, closure of the company or shift to non-approved activities will result in visa cancellation. The program does not automatically grant permanent residency or citizenship. Family members receive dependent visas with work restrictions. Rules are subject to change; always check the latest BOI guidelines.
Thailand stands out as an ideal hub for startups with its thriving ecosystem in Bangkok, featuring world-class accelerators like Techsauce and Startupbootcamp, active local and international investors, and strong government support via the Board of Investment (BOI) and Digital Economy Promotion Agency (DEPA). The SMART 'S' Visa is tailored for innovative entrepreneurs, offering long-term residency options, access to co-working spaces, networking events, and BOI tax incentives that can reduce effective tax rates to zero for qualifying projects. Low operational costs, a strategic ASEAN location, abundant tech talent, and programs promoting Thailand 4.0 make it highly attractive for scaling technology-driven businesses.
Official program link:
https://www.boi.go.th/index.php?page=smart_visa
✔ List of required documents to obtain Startup visa
- Completed application form of qualification endorsement for smart visa “S”
- Copy of valid passport
- Medical certificate issued from the country of which the applicant is a national or a permanent resident or where the application is submitted, showing no prohibited diseases ( Leprosy, Tuberculosis, drug addiction, Elephantiasis, third phase of Syphilis) as indicated in the Ministerial Regulation No. 14 B.E. 2535 (not more than 3 months old)
- Company’s annual report, brochures and catalogues. (if any)
- Evidence of the incubation or accelerator program acceptance evidence
- Power of attorney if the application is submitted by a representative
- A letter of verification issued from the country of his or her nationality or residence stating that the applicant has no criminal record, certificate of incorporation, memorandum of association in Thailand, may be requested on a case-by-case basis.
📋 How to apply
-
Prepare Business Plan & Secure Endorsement
Develop a comprehensive innovative business plan and obtain an official endorsement from a BOI/DEPA-approved accelerator, incubator or qualified venture investor. -
Submit Application to BOI
File the SMART Visa application package online or in-person at the BOI One-Stop Service Center together with all supporting documents. -
Approval & Visa Issuance
After BOI review and approval (usually 20–60 days), receive an approval letter and apply for the SMART S visa stamp at a Royal Thai Embassy or request change of status within Thailand. -
Entry & Compliance
Enter Thailand, report your address within 15 days, register the company (if not already done), obtain a work permit exemption letter and fulfill annual BOI reporting requirements.
✅ Approval tips
- Align your startup with Thailand 4.0 priority sectors: digital technology, biotechnology, advanced manufacturing, robotics or creative economy
- Secure a strong endorsement letter from a recognized accelerator or at least THB 2 million in committed investment
- Emphasize job creation for Thai nationals and technology/knowledge transfer in the business plan
- Provide evidence of your previous entrepreneurial or industry experience to demonstrate capability to execute the plan
- Prepare financial projections showing realistic path to revenue within 12–18 months
❌ Common rejection reasons
- Business plan lacks clear technological innovation or sufficient differentiation from existing solutions
- Absence of official endorsement from an approved accelerator or qualified investor
- Insufficient proof of funding or paid-up capital meeting the minimum threshold
- Application documents are incomplete, inconsistent or not translated when required
- Startup operates in a non-promoted sector with no clear benefit to Thailand’s digital economy
💸 Tax information
Effective tax rate: 0–20%
Startups promoted by BOI under the SMART S program can enjoy 0% corporate income tax for 3–8 years depending on innovation level and sector. Standard corporate tax is 20% after exemptions expire. Founders classified as tax residents face progressive personal income tax (0–35%), but significant deductions and incentives often lower the effective rate.
❓ FAQ
Qualified projects receive BOI promotion with 0% corporate income tax for up to 8 years, exemption from import duties on machinery and raw materials, and additional deductions. After the holiday period the standard 20% corporate tax applies.
Yes. It can be extended every 12 months (up to 4 years total) provided the startup remains active, annual BOI reports are submitted and minimum business activity is maintained.
Yes. An official endorsement letter from a BOI/DEPA-approved accelerator, incubator or qualified investor is a core requirement for the SMART S category.
Yes. The company can hire Thai staff freely. Foreign key personnel can be sponsored for additional SMART visas or work permits. The program encourages employment of locals.
Applicants must demonstrate at least THB 1,500,000 in funding or paid-up capital. Higher amounts (THB 2–5 million) significantly improve approval chances.
The visa is linked to active management of the approved startup. Failure or closure usually requires changing to another visa type within 30–60 days or leaving Thailand.