LTR Visa is Now available for Long Term Residency

[khunjeff]

3 hours ago, hcvc said:

For those who already have a BOI LTR Visa for Wealthy Pensioners - were you required to wear a suit and tie – or did you happen to observe any one denied a BOI LTR Visa for a dress code violation?

 

Like others, I just wore long pants and a short-sleeved collared shirt, with boat shoes.

 

On two occasions (I accompanied some friends to BoI as well), I did see applicants sent downstairs to the little retail mall at Chamchuri to buy long trousers, because they had come to the office in shorts. I'm fairly certain those two were there for some kind of investment visa rather than the LTR, but it's still a good idea to avoid shorts on LTR day. No suit or tie required, though.

[ThailandRyan]

Wore a nice pair of golfing pants and a polo shirt, dressed like I do for Informal business meetings.  

[Misty]

3 hours ago, ThailandRyan said:

Wore a nice pair of golfing pants and a polo shirt, dressed like I do for Informal business meetings.  

 

Yes, basic rules of common decency apply:  be clean, shave if needed, comb hair, wear clean well-mended clothes, brush teeth. A collared shirt and long pants. No flip flops - closed toe shoes.

Probably all the folks who qualify for LTR visas know how to dress decently already. 

 

From many years doing annual NonB extensions in CW immigration that may not be the case for expats there, but don't let that place be a guideline of acceptibility.

[sabaiguy]

On 5/12/2024 at 10:12 PM, hcvc said:

I have an appointment to receive a LTR Visa for Wealthy Pensioners at One Stop Service Center (OSS).

 

On the BOI website under the heading Wealthy Pensioner - Application Process – Visa Issuance – Dress Code Guidelines for Appointment Date - a pictorial displays a cartoon of a man wearing a suit and tie. Individual cutouts of a cartoon suit and pants are also shown.

 

Above the pictorial is a message (warning) stating - * Remarks: * Please dress politely in proper formal clothes and shoes. The immigration officer reserves the right to refuse service if inappropriate clothing is observed.

 

I am a large framed fashionably challenged individual living on a rural farm and do not have a suit or tie. I have made several fruitless attempts to purchase a suitable suit online.

 

For those who already have a BOI LTR Visa for Wealthy Pensioners - were you required to wear a suit and tie – or did you happen to observe any one denied a BOI LTR Visa for a dress code violation?

 

Any help would be much appreciated.

Just received my LTR this week.  No suit and tie.  Just think they don't want  you to show up in baggies, flip flops and tank top.  Trousers and decent shirt will do the trick.

[SHA 2 BKK]

9 hours ago, sabaiguy said:

Just received my LTR this week.  No suit and tie.  Just think they don't want  you to show up in baggies, flip flops and tank top.  Trousers and decent shirt will do the trick.

Congratulations on your LTR! 

[Ben Zioner]

10 hours ago, sabaiguy said:

Just received my LTR this week.  No suit and tie.  Just think they don't want  you to show up in baggies, flip flops and tank top.  Trousers and decent shirt will do the trick.

Yep, and a Kippah...

[tomm12]

I flew in to Chiang Mai last night 16/5/2024. I did not look for a fast lane as I was number three off the plane. It did take them awhile to sort through my LTR (four people looking at it trying to decide what to do) but in the end they stamped it correctly. So it is still fairly new to some of the immigration people. I would guess as more of us go in and out of the different airports in Thailand it will get quicker. 

Fyi

 

Regards,

 

[Eddie45]

My understanding with the LTR Visa, you dont need to file a tax return if you stay in Thailand for more than 183 days a year in a tax year. You dont pay tax on your overseas earnings and you wont need to pay tax on the money you bring into Thailand to pay for your living expenses. Is this also the case with the Elite Visa as trying to workout best option for me. I did look on the Elite Visa website but this information was not covered.

[SHA 2 BKK]

3 hours ago, Eddie45 said:

My understanding with the LTR Visa, you dont need to file a tax return if you stay in Thailand for more than 183 days a year in a tax year. You dont pay tax on your overseas earnings and you wont need to pay tax on the money you bring into Thailand to pay for your living expenses. Is this also the case with the Elite Visa as trying to workout best option for me. I did look on the Elite Visa website but this information was not covered.

My understanding of your information on the LTR is the same - though there is a discussion whether you are only entitled to remit previous years income into Thailand and pay no tax.  No Tax Return needed (this was posted by another member some time ago).  
 

The Thailand Elite (having had one previous) was considered a Tourist Visa.  Therefore it would be my understanding that under the new RD Directive you would be liable to file and pay taxes (after deductions) on remitted monies earned post 2023.  
 

However I’m not Lawyer or Accountant and could be wrong but that’s how I see the state of things. 

[sabaiguy]

12 hours ago, Ben Zioner said:

Yep, and a Kippah...

What's a Kippah.  Pardon my ignorance.

[Mike Teavee]

13 hours ago, Eddie45 said:

My understanding with the LTR Visa, you dont need to file a tax return if you stay in Thailand for more than 183 days a year in a tax year. You dont pay tax on your overseas earnings and you wont need to pay tax on the money you bring into Thailand to pay for your living expenses. Is this also the case with the Elite Visa as trying to workout best option for me. I did look on the Elite Visa website but this information was not covered.

The Elite Visa is a essentially a Tourist Visa so not exempt from tax on income brought in from overseas, only the LTR has the exemption.

 

10 hours ago, SHA 2 BKK said:

My understanding of your information on the LTR is the same - though there is a discussion whether you are only entitled to remit previous years income into Thailand and pay no tax.  No Tax Return needed (this was posted by another member some time ago).  
 

The Thailand Elite (having had one previous) was considered a Tourist Visa.  Therefore it would be my understanding that under the new RD Directive you would be liable to file and pay taxes (after deductions) on remitted monies earned post 2023.  
 

However I’m not Lawyer or Accountant and could be wrong but that’s how I see the state of things. 

 

The LTR exemption means your overseas sourced income is not assessable but you would still need to file a return if you had Thai sourced income (E.g. rental income or interest from your bank accounts) of > 60K as an individual, 120K for a joint return however you would not include your overseas income on the return.

 

 

[khunjeff]

10 hours ago, sabaiguy said:

What's a Kippah.  Pardon my ignorance.

 

Same as a yarmulke (kippah is the Hebrew word, yarmulke is Yiddish).

[Eddie45]

20 hours ago, SHA 2 BKK said:

My understanding of your information on the LTR is the same - though there is a discussion whether you are only entitled to remit previous years income into Thailand and pay no tax.  No Tax Return needed (this was posted by another member some time ago).  
 

I emailed BOI and the screenshot below is their reply.

[Eddie45]

9 hours ago, Mike Teavee said:

The Elite Visa is a essentially a Tourist Visa so not exempt from tax on income brought in from overseas, only the LTR has the exemption.

Thanks for the info. Expensive Tourist Visa especially if you don't play golf. I will go for the LTR Visa.

[JohnnyBD]

15 minutes ago, Eddie45 said:

I emailed BOI and the screenshot below is there reply.

I have a similar email stating that all of my income streams will be exempt under the LTR Wealthy Pensioner's category once I obtain my LTR visa, specifically; my social security, company pension, dividends, interest, investment gains and individual retirement accounts.

Someone will reply to your post and say, but the LTR is not TRD, or they will say the LTR didn't say you could transfer it in the same year it was earned, or they will come up with some other reason to negate your reply from the LTR Visa Unit. Just be prepared.

[sabaiguy]

7 hours ago, JohnnyBD said:

I have a similar email stating that all of my income streams will be exempt under the LTR Wealthy Pensioner's category once I obtain my LTR visa, specifically; my social security, company pension, dividends, interest, investment gains and individual retirement accounts.

Someone will reply to your post and say, but the LTR is not TRD, or they will say the LTR didn't say you could transfer it in the same year it was earned, or they will come up with some other reason to negate your reply from the LTR Visa Unit. Just be prepared.

I'm thinking there might be a lot of Thai Privilege (Elite) holders looking to sell and get LTR (if they meet requirements) as it is much better and cheaper than TPC.  Especially if you don't golf or need airport transfers or hand holding through immigration.  I understand when they got TPC the LTR wasn't available.

[Lost Nomad]

On 4-24-24 I received the email stating my application has been endorsed and I should update information and upload any additional documents (none requested).  I had sent the BOI an email asking when the 60-day countdown started for me to either pay for the e-visa or show up at the BOI.  The BOI responded to my email stating that the 60-day clock hadn't started yet since I hadn't updated my information picking a visa issuance location.

 

Fast forward to now and I am scheduled to arrive on 7-15-24 which should comply with the 60-day countdown depending on when Immigration issues the endorsement memo.

 

I am struggling with the website.  I update my address to the hotel I have booked in BKK (currently still in the US).  I also indicated that I would be on visa exempt status issued at the BKK airport on 7-15-24.  I think that's all of the updates needed, but no matter what I cannot get the webpage to indicate that it has accepted my updates.

 

The LTR tab of the website states "Your LTR application is in process". How do I proceed?  Do I need to remove & reattach my previously reviewed and approved documents?  My understanding is I'm on step 5 which means the BOI has reviewed my case but Immigration hasn't formally approved it yet.  Once that happens I'll be able to schedule my BOI appointment.

 

 

 

[Eddie45]

Lost Nomad, why not email BOI. They usually reply within 10 minutes during business hours and they seem really helpful.

[Lost Nomad]

5 hours ago, Eddie45 said:

Lost Nomad, why not email BOI. They usually reply within 10 minutes during business hours and they seem really helpful.

I have but this morning's response didn't address the deadline date.  I responded and am waiting on their follow up response.  I think the BOI answer I received in April stating that the 60-day clock hadn't started yet may have been wrong and my deadline for paying at the BOI is 6-23-24.

 

This is the notifications screen from the non-mobile webpage.  For those that have had to print the Endorsement Letter for the in-person BOI payment, does that date match the date on your Notifications screen?  I suspect if I would select to receive visa at the BOI the system would allow me to schedule a date after my 7-15-24 arrival even though the endorsement had expired.

 

I suspect I'll need to delete the whole application and start the process from step 1 if I can't pay at the BOI  until mid-July.

 

 

[Pib]

My understanding is the 60 day period starts from the date on your endorsement memo....that is, the memo consisting of a one page memo on letterhead signed by a BOI HiSo with a one page spreadsheet/chart attached.  The memo states the 60 day end date.  Basically you have those 60 days to get the LTR visa issued/stamped into your passport; otherwise, it's return to go and start all over.

[stat]

Is is possible to get the LTR visa as an evisa for a German i.e. without visiting a consulate or BOI office? Thanks!

[sabaiguy]

21 hours ago, Lost Nomad said:

On 4-24-24 I received the email stating my application has been endorsed and I should update information and upload any additional documents (none requested).  I had sent the BOI an email asking when the 60-day countdown started for me to either pay for the e-visa or show up at the BOI.  The BOI responded to my email stating that the 60-day clock hadn't started yet since I hadn't updated my information picking a visa issuance location.

 

Fast forward to now and I am scheduled to arrive on 7-15-24 which should comply with the 60-day countdown depending on when Immigration issues the endorsement memo.

 

I am struggling with the website.  I update my address to the hotel I have booked in BKK (currently still in the US).  I also indicated that I would be on visa exempt status issued at the BKK airport on 7-15-24.  I think that's all of the updates needed, but no matter what I cannot get the webpage to indicate that it has accepted my updates.

 

The LTR tab of the website states "Your LTR application is in process". How do I proceed?  Do I need to remove & reattach my previously reviewed and approved documents?  My understanding is I'm on step 5 which means the BOI has reviewed my case but Immigration hasn't formally approved it yet.  Once that happens I'll be able to schedule my BOI appointment.

 

 

 

My experience is almost identical to yours.  Applied while in US and received "qualification endorsement" and to upload additional documents.  What additional docs? Thought I should be able to schedule my appointment but no instructions on how to do so.  I contacted them and they were very clear on the next steps.  Can't get appointment unless you're in Thailand.  So you arrive in Thailand visa exempt get your 30 day stamp.  Then send 30 day stamp to them by email (not the application website) That is the "additional documents" they refer to and confirmed the 60 days start when they receive that.  Then on the application website the "schedule application" appears.  Went very smooth and last week received my LTR. Good luck.

[Lost Nomad]

Thanks to Pib and Sabaiguy for the info.  That puts my mind at ease a bit.  I was hoping to have the appointment scheduled before arriving in BKK, but I guess that's not to be since I'm opting for BOI payment while in the US.

 

Sabaiguy:  Since your situation was similar to mine, did you wait to update/select BOI location until you were in BKK?  I'm not sure if I should submit it now and indicate on the step 5 "update" that my BKK hotel address will be xxx and that I will be arriving visa exempt on 7-15-24.  Once I'm boots on the ground I can email the visa exempt page and schedule.

[sabaiguy]

12 hours ago, Lost Nomad said:

Thanks to Pib and Sabaiguy for the info.  That puts my mind at ease a bit.  I was hoping to have the appointment scheduled before arriving in BKK, but I guess that's not to be since I'm opting for BOI payment while in the US.

 

Sabaiguy:  Since your situation was similar to mine, did you wait to update/select BOI location until you were in BKK?  I'm not sure if I should submit it now and indicate on the step 5 "update" that my BKK hotel address will be xxx and that I will be arriving visa exempt on 7-15-24.  Once I'm boots on the ground I can email the visa exempt page and schedule.

Correct.  I think you're good to go.  One point:  I think you probably have already informed them you plan to use the BOI location/office.  You're required to do that earlier in the application or you wouldn't have gotten as far as you have.   Have to tell them you plan on getting it at BOI office in Bangkok or  evisa from embassy/consulate in US.  But still required to go to embassy/consulate in person. Go to BOI office in Bangkok, they're great.

[sabaiguy]

Lost Nomad,  one additional thing.  When submitting your entry stamps after arrival also include the biodata page of your passport (again).

[James105]

I have a couple of questions about this as I originally thought this visa would be too complex for me to get one of the skilled professional ones, but it seems I (might) be eligible for the "wealthy pensioner" one next year when I turn 50.   This should coincide nicely with my Elite visa coming to an end.  I will not be able to apply for this until May next year but I want to see if I can get my ducks in a row before then.  

 

1. It seems the income requirement includes 'royalties' (which my income is classified as) which gets transferred to me monthly via PayPal.  Would PayPal statements and bank statements suffice for evidence here, as well as screen captures or something from the online publishing platform where the sales and royalties for my work is listed?  

2. The "tax return" requirement is mildly concerning as I have ceased to be a UK tax resident from last year and am technically a tax resident in Thailand.  In preparation for the tax rule changes I transferred 2M baht last year to my Thai bank account so was not planning on filing a tax return here this year (due to not remitting any monies here in 2024) but perhaps I may need to rethink this.   I'll file a UK tax return later this year anyway but this will just be to confirm I am still not a UK tax resident so will be zero based.   So at best I'll have 2 tax returns (1 for UK and 1 for Thailand) that show I pay zero tax unless I do something such as remitting money here this year to change that.   

3. Do people use agents typically for this or just go straight to BOI and submit the documents etc?  Is there any advantage to using an agent to get the aforementioned ducks in a row and get this over the line?   

 

Would greatly appreciate any insight.

[SHA 2 BKK]

36 minutes ago, James105 said:

I have a couple of questions about this as I originally thought this visa would be too complex for me to get one of the skilled professional ones, but it seems I (might) be eligible for the "wealthy pensioner" one next year when I turn 50.   This should coincide nicely with my Elite visa coming to an end.  I will not be able to apply for this until May next year but I want to see if I can get my ducks in a row before then.  

 

1. It seems the income requirement includes 'royalties' (which my income is classified as) which gets transferred to me monthly via PayPal.  Would PayPal statements and bank statements suffice for evidence here, as well as screen captures or something from the online publishing platform where the sales and royalties for my work is listed?  

2. The "tax return" requirement is mildly concerning as I have ceased to be a UK tax resident from last year and am technically a tax resident in Thailand.  In preparation for the tax rule changes I transferred 2M baht last year to my Thai bank account so was not planning on filing a tax return here this year (due to not remitting any monies here in 2024) but perhaps I may need to rethink this.   I'll file a UK tax return later this year anyway but this will just be to confirm I am still not a UK tax resident so will be zero based.   So at best I'll have 2 tax returns (1 for UK and 1 for Thailand) that show I pay zero tax unless I do something such as remitting money here this year to change that.   

3. Do people use agents typically for this or just go straight to BOI and submit the documents etc?  Is there any advantage to using an agent to get the aforementioned ducks in a row and get this over the line?   

 

Would greatly appreciate any insight.

Hi James

 

I never had to lodge my Tax Returns but gave them my last two Pension Statements (I get paid fortnightly). I was however in the first "wave" of applicants so I am unsure if this has changed.  I never used an agent but uploaded everything online - its quite easy to follow.

 

Could I suggest you email the BOI direct or even better if you live in Bangkok go to Chamchuri Square and have a chat to the staff - they are extremely helpful.

 

Sorry i couldn't help more but good luck with your application.

[K2938]

7 hours ago, James105 said:

Do people use agents typically for this or just go straight to BOI and submit the documents etc?  Is there any advantage to using an agent to get the aforementioned ducks in a row and get this over the line? 

An agent will charge you several times more than the value he or she adds which is generally marginal.

[sabaiguy]

James,

     Your comments about royalties is very interesting.  I'm a Yank so I know nothing.  All I know is that BOI wants you to show "passive" income not "earned" income {salary, wages}.   I do not know how the UK classifies royalties.  In the end it isn't even important what you or even the UK Government says, it's how the BOI interprets it.  You can be absolutely correct but if the BOI doesn't agree then you're sol.  Also I'm not sure why they ask for tax returns.  To my knowledge none of the requirements say you have to show taxes paid.  There's a lot of very wealthy people in the US who don't pay any taxes.

     Based on your age I assume you have qualifying health insurance.  If not you should probably be able to get it.  That's a stumbling block for many applicant (ie older ones 70+).

[Mike Teavee]

6 hours ago, sabaiguy said:

Also I'm not sure why they ask for tax returns.  To my knowledge none of the requirements say you have to show taxes paid.  There's a lot of very wealthy people in the US who don't pay any taxes.

I've been curious about this for a while, how do you show Capital Gains if not through a Tax Return (As a UK Expat I don't pay Capital Gains Tax on my share dealings so they don't appear on my UK Tax Return). 

 

Does BOI accept copies of the purchase/sale contract notes? It doesn't feel like they would, but then again, Capital Gains don't feel like they should be counted as income to me.