Written by the Thai Legal & Immigration legal team · Last reviewed · Editorial policy
What changed
The Cabinet amended the SMART measure to reduce overlap with the Long-Term Resident visa. BOI Announcement No. Por 5/2568 repealed the 2018 criteria. Only the special temporary residence route for start-up entrepreneurs, plus their lawful spouse and children, remains.
Who still qualifies
Start-up entrepreneurs whose business activity is established in Thailand and certified as a start-up in a targeted industry by a relevant government agency, such as the National Innovation Agency, within the time limits and conditions set in the announcement. Check the official SMART portal for the full criteria before you apply.
Not sure this route fits you?
Get a Free Preliminary Eligibility Review from our licensed team.
Where experts, investors and executives go now
- Highly skilled employees of Thai companies in targeted industries: LTR Highly Skilled Professional.
- Remote employees of established foreign companies: LTR Work-from-Thailand Professional or DTV.
- Investors and wealthy individuals: LTR Wealthy Global Citizen.
- Employees outside targeted industries: Non-B visa with a work permit.
Existing SMART holders
People who already hold SMART status should check how the transition affects their renewal or change of employer. Do not assume a renewal will follow the old criteria.
How we help
We confirm whether your start-up certification and business activity fit SMART S, compare it with the LTR, and choose the stronger route before filing. BOI decides eligibility.
Related services
Frequently asked
Can I still get SMART T as a specialist?
Can my family join me on SMART S?
Is SMART or LTR better for a start-up founder?
Sources & references
- BOI SMART Visa portal — checked 2026-11-03
- BOI Long-Term Resident visa portal — checked 2026-11-03
- Thailand Board of Investment — checked 2026-11-03
General information only, not legal advice. Immigration decisions rest with the Thai authorities.