Following up on our last update about the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), the Thai government has confirmed that it is going ahead with the launch of the visa program which will give remote workers and digital nomads the option of living and working in Thailand.
The DTV is a multiple-entry visa that is valid for five years. Applicants who qualify will be given 180 days upon entry, which they can then extend for another 180 days for a fee of THB 10,000 once per year. After the end of their 180-day extension, they must leave and re-enter the country to be given another 180 days.
While the DTV is typically associated with digital nomads, remote workers, and freelancers who work for companies or clients outside Thailand, it is also available for those participating in Thai soft power activities. These include:
- Medical treatment
- Thai cooking
- Muay Thai
- Athletic training
- Music festivals
- Seminars
Spouses of DTV holders and children below 20 years old are also eligible to apply.
Requirements and conditions for the DTV
Applicants must be at least 20 years old when applying for a DTV. While nationals of some countries may be able to apply for a DTV via the e-visa portal, most will be required to apply at a Thai embassy or consulate.
Although the DTV does not have a specific minimum income requirement, applicants must be able to provide bank documents indicating that they have at least THB 500,000 in their bank account. Alternatively, they can provide other documents such as pay slips or sponsorship letters to prove they have the means to support themselves during their stay in Thailand.
Furthermore, remote workers, digital nomads, and freelancers will be expected to provide evidence of their employment at an overseas company, such as an employment contract or certificate, or prove that they freelance professionally by providing their work portfolio.
On the other hand, applicants participating in soft power activities must confirm that they will be attending such activities or provide an appointment letter from an accredited healthcare facility. Dependent children and spouses must also prove their relationship to the primary DTV holder by providing documents such as a marriage certificate, birth certificate, or certificate of adoption.
Holders of a DTV will still be required to report their address to the immigration bureau every 90 days. It is also important to remember that working for a Thai company with a DTV is prohibited, and applicants will not be entitled to a work permit.
Silk Legal can provide a range of services for several practice areas. This article is for information only. While we have tried to keep our updates as accurate as possible, changes to legislation or other factors may affect your decisions. Please feel free to contact us for a free consultation at [email protected].
