We check whether your start-up fits the SMART S track, prepare the evidence and coordinate with the Board of Investment. Family cover runs under SMART O. If you are an investor or executive, we tell you honestly that the LTR visa or a B visa fits better. The details and reported figures are in our SMART guide.
The SMART visa is built for founders of technology-based start-ups in selected industries. It offers a multi-year stay with lighter reporting. People who used to apply as investors, executives or specialists are now usually pointed elsewhere, so every SMART visa Phuket enquiry starts with a pre-check that finds out whether SMART is still the right door for you.
Approval depends on your category, your evidence and the industry. We run a pre-check first, then prepare the documents and coordinate with the programme so the application is complete.
This is for you if
- You run or plan to run a technology-based start-up in a targeted Thai industry.
- You hold a director role or at least 25 percent of the company shares.
- Your start-up is, or can be, endorsed by a Thai government agency.
- You want a longer stay with less paperwork.
This may not fit if
- You are an investor, executive or specialist. The LTR visa or a B visa with a work permit usually fits better.
- You work in an industry that is not targeted. We will suggest another route.
- You are a remote worker only. See the DTV visa.
How we handle a SMART visa
- 1
Eligibility pre-check
We check your category, industry and documents and tell you if you qualify.
- 2
Evidence and company documents
We prepare your personal file and coordinate the documents the company or investment provides.
- 3
Application
We guide the BOI submission and respond to follow-up requests.
- 4
After approval
We explain your reporting duties and, where relevant, the work permit aspects.
Targeted industries
The programme focuses on selected technology and innovation industries. Whether your activity counts depends on the approved list and the specific project. Check eligibility before you plan the application.
Tracks
Reports from 2026 describe two open tracks: SMART S for start-up founders and SMART O for a founder's spouse and children. The former investor, talent and executive tracks are reported as discontinued. We could not confirm this on an official page, so we check the current position with the Board of Investment in your pre-check.
Stay and reporting
Duration, renewal and the reporting duty differ by track and are reported differently by different sources. In your pre-check we confirm the position for your track with the programme and tell you which dates to watch.
Typical SMART visa documents
Documents depend on the category:
- Passport with long validity (reports mention at least 18 months)
- Company registration and proof of your director role or share of at least 25 percent
- Proof of a Thai bank balance of about THB 600,000 held for three consecutive months (reported)
- Endorsement or support from a Thai government agency such as BOI, NIA or DEPA (reported)
- Business plan, traction evidence and health insurance for the stay
- Photos and application forms
What affects your quote
This service is quoted on request, with our fee and the government fees shown separately. See how our quotes work. No payment until you qualify. Government fees are charged at cost.
- Category and industry
- Company and investment documents
- Family members included
- Reporting support after approval
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying before confirming the industry is targeted.
- Planning around an investor, talent or executive track that is reported as closed.
- Moving the deposit in too late for the holding period.
- Assuming the visa gives unlimited work rights.
Frequently asked questions
Who qualifies for the SMART visa?
Currently reported: founders of technology-based start-ups in targeted industries (SMART S) and their spouse and children (SMART O). Investors, executives and experts are reported to be directed to the LTR visa.
Do you check eligibility before payment?
Yes. We check your profile before you pay, so a failed submission does not cost you fees.
Can my family come with me on a SMART visa?
Yes, a spouse and children can be added under SMART O when they meet the conditions.
Where is the SMART visa applied for?
Applications go through the Board of Investment process. We coordinate with it from Phuket.
Can I work on a SMART visa?
Founders working in a certified business are reported not to need a separate work permit. We explain your exact scope.
Visa help across Phuket
Our office is in Wichit and we serve clients all over the island. Choose your area to see local details.
Official sources
Last reviewed on . Thai immigration rules and fees change. We confirm the current requirements for your case in your free pre-check.