Thailand Board of Investment (BOI) Smart Visa Program

Thailand BOI Smart Visa Programme

The Smart Visa is a special visa category introduced by the Board of Investment (BOI) to attract highly skilled professionals, investors, executives, and startup founders to Thailand. For AI companies and training providers, the Smart Visa facilitates bringing international AI experts into Thailand without the restrictions of traditional work permits.

Smart Visa Categories

Smart T (Talent)

For highly skilled professionals in target industries including AI and digital technology.

• Duration: Up to 4 years (renewable)
• Work permit: Not required (authorized to work under Smart Visa)
• Minimum salary: THB 100,000/month (approx. USD 2,800)
• Spouse and dependents: Can work in Thailand without separate work permits

Smart I (Investor)

For investors putting capital into Thai AI and technology companies.

• Duration: Up to 4 years
• Minimum investment: THB 20 million in a BOI-promoted company
• Additional benefit: Can serve as a director without a separate work permit

Smart E (Executive)

For senior executives of companies operating in target industries.

• Duration: Up to 4 years
• Minimum salary: THB 200,000/month
• Company requirement: Must be a BOI-promoted company or a company in a target industry

Smart S (Startup)

For founders of technology startups including AI ventures.

• Duration: Up to 2 years (renewable for 2 more)
• Requirements: Endorsed by a government agency (NIA, DEPA, or NSTDA) or a partnering incubator/accelerator
• Benefit: Can incorporate and operate a startup in Thailand

Smart O (Other)

For spouses and dependents of Smart Visa holders.

Relevance for AI Training Delivery

The Smart Visa is particularly valuable for AI training companies because:

1. International trainers: Bring AI experts from overseas to deliver in-person training programmes without navigating Thailand's complex work permit process
2. Knowledge transfer: BOI considers training delivery as technology transfer, which strengthens BOI promotion applications
3. Multi-site delivery: Smart Visa holders can work across multiple locations in Thailand without geographic restrictions
4. Speed: Smart Visa processing takes 30 working days vs. 60-90 days for traditional work permits

Application Process

1. Determine eligibility: Verify that your role or business activity qualifies under one of the target industries (AI and digital technology are explicitly included)
2. Prepare documentation: Gather qualifications, employment contracts, company registration documents, and salary verification
3. Submit to BOI: Apply through BOI's Smart Visa website or at a BOI office in Thailand
4. Endorsement: For Smart S applicants, obtain endorsement from NIA, DEPA, or an approved incubator
5. Processing: BOI coordinates with immigration for visa issuance (30 working days)
6. Issuance: Receive Smart Visa stamp and digital certification

Smart Visa vs Work Permit Comparison

Combining Smart Visa with BOI Promotion

Companies that obtain BOI promotion for AI-related activities gain:

• Simplified Smart Visa processing for employees
• Corporate tax exemptions (3-8 years) for AI operations
• Import duty exemptions on AI equipment
• Smart Visa eligibility for key personnel automatically