Thailand – Update on Long-Term Resident Visa – Targeted Industries

Issue 158: May 2026

The Board of Investment of Thailand (BOI) has published an update on its website regarding revisions to the industrial categories applicable to the Highly-Skilled Professional category under the Long-Term Resident (LTR) Visa program promoted by the Thai government.

Under this update, several targeted industries have been reclassified using broader and more inclusive industry definitions. This revision may be viewed, practically, as a relaxation and expansion of the eligibility criteria.

As a result, a wider range of industries and companies is now expected to qualify for, and benefit from, the LTR Visa scheme, enhancing accessibility for foreign professionals, and supporting Thailand’s long-term objectives in attracting talent.

In addition to (i) the right to reside in Thailand for up to 10 years and (ii) exemption of foreign‑sourced income from personal income tax for other LTR Visa categories, individuals certified as highly-skilled professionals under the LTR Visa framework with intention to work or reside in Thailand on a long-term basis are eligible for a preferential Thai personal income tax rate at a flat rate of 17% (instead of progressive rates up to 35%).

Under this revision, the scope and designations of several targeted industries relevant to the Highly-Skilled Professional category have been materially expanded. Whereas the previous framework relied on more narrowly defined or highly specialized industry terminology, the revised approach adopts broader and more inclusive industry classifications, thereby widening the range of qualifying activities and sectors.

This revision appears to align with the Thai government’s strategic objective of attracting a larger number of skilled expatriates from overseas. Not only does the qualified individual save significant tax cost through the preferential 17% flat rate, the employer can also save tax costs through the significant gross up reduction.

From the perspective of optimizing these clear tax and cost advantages, companies operating within, or closely aligned to, the revised industry categories are strongly encouraged to consider the LTR Visa as part of their workforce and tax management strategy.

Our goal is to help your company benefit from the expanded LTR scope, easily and efficiently.

Please feel free to reach out if you would like us to review your current immigration and personal income tax strategy and/or explore new opportunities under the updated LTR criteria. We are always here to support you.