Thailand is the image of tranquility for aspiring travellers and veterans alike. Baked in sunshine thanks to a year-round tropical climate, the holiday favourite combines lush beaches with the buzz of Bangkok.
But, thanks to a newly launched digital nomad visa, Thailand’s no longer just for holidays. The ‘Destination Thailand Visa’ (DTV) launched on June 1 and enables remote workers to stay in the country for up to five years. It follows similar schemes in Malaysia and Indonesia, which are among the vacation spots rethinking their appeal in a world embracing hybrid work models.
Until now, digital nomads could only stay in Thailand on tourist visas for up to 60 days, so this is a huge jump. The only alternative was the notoriously hard-to-get Long Term Residence Visa, which came with pretty steep financial requirements.
The new visa is part of an effort to boost visitor numbers and revive the Thai economy, and is one of the most generous offers for digital nomads worldwide.
Fancy combining paradise with productivity? Here’s everything you need to know about Thailand’s new digital nomad visa.
Who can apply for Thailand’s digital nomad visa?
Applicants must be self-employed or work for a company outside of Thailand, and must be at least 20 years old. The DTV is unusual in being open not only to freelance or remote workers, but anyone pursuing cultural activities in Thailand. What could that look like? Anything from taking cooking courses to learning muay Thai (traditional Thai boxing).
How long will the visa last?
You can stay in Thailand for up to five years – but keep in mind you need to leave and reenter the country every 180 days, and pay an extra $270 (£212.20) each time.
What is the minimum income for a digital nomad visa in Thailand?
The new visa does not yet specify a minimum income. Up until now, remote workers who wanted to stay in Thailand long-term had to meet a minimum annual income of $80,000 (£62,850). The new scheme will open up the visa to those who can prove they have savings of 500,000 Thai baht ($13,600, £10,684).
What are the other requirements?
Applicants cannot work for a company based in Thailand and must pay an application fee of 10,000 Thai baht - about $270 (£212.20).
How to apply to be a digital nomad in Thailand
Depending on your current passport and location, you may be able to apply through the official e-visa website. Countries eligible for online applications include the United Kingdom, United States, Brazil, Australia and most European states. Those not included will need to visit their local Thai embassy to apply. You can check your country’s status and other details on the Thai e-visa website.
Digital nomad visas on Time Out:
Here are all the countries offering digital nomad visas right now, and here’s our comprehensive ranking of the easiest (and hardest) digital nomad visas to get in Europe.
Want to know what it’s actually like to be a digital nomad? We spoke to people who have taken the leap.
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