Destination Thailand Visa Overview
The DTV is a type of tourist visa in Thailand, which means it does not allow you to obtain a work permit for employment with a Thai company, nor does it permit activities requiring non-tourist visas, such as domestic adoption or pursuing permanent residency in Thailand. However it does allow you to live in Thailand and work as a digital nomad with your own portfolio or as a remote worker for a foreign company (not Thai based company). For example if you were a remote worker with a company based in Germany and have a contract with this German company the DTV visa is for you.
In July 2024, the Thai government introduced a series of measures to boost tourism and stimulate the economy, with one of the most notable being the launch of the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV). This new long-term visa, is primarily targeted at digital nomads and freelancers, but also caters to those interested in participating in Thai cultural activities or seeking medical treatment as part of medical tourism.
If you fit into any of these categories, the DTV could be a great option if you plan to spend extended time in the Land of Smiles. It has relatively few eligibility requirements and offers a flexible long-term visa that allows for convenient travel.
This post will guide you through what the DTV permits, who qualifies for it, and how to apply. We’ll also address some common questions to help you decide if this visa option is right for you.
Here are the key details of the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV):
- Visa duration: 5 years
- Visa type: Multiple entry
- Length of stay per entry: 180 days
- Extendable: Yes, once per entry
- Obtainable from: A Royal Thai Embassy/Consulate or online through Thailand’s official e-visa website
- Can you include Family: Yes
With a DTV, you can leave and re-enter Thailand as many times as you like without needing to apply for a re-entry permit, unlike other Thai tourist visas. However, each time you enter Thailand, you can stay for up to 180 days. After that, you only need to leave and return to reset your stay for another 180 days.
Alternatively, you can extend your stay by an additional 180 days per entry, allowing you to remain in Thailand for nearly a year before needing to exit and re-enter. Keep in mind that this extension requires an additional fee of 1900 Thai baht at most immigration offices.
The DTV is designed with digital nomads and online freelancers in mind, allowing them to work and enjoy Thailand for extended periods. It enables you to have a “workcation” in Thailand before moving on to your next destination and returning whenever you wish.
Who is Eligible for the DTV?
The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is divided into three categories, and your eligibility depends on your intended activities in Thailand.
Workcation (Digital Nomads, Freelancers, Remote Workers)
The primary focus of this visa is for individuals who can work from anywhere in the world. Whether you’re a remote employee for a foreign company, a freelancer, or an influencer, the DTV is designed for you.
However, the Thai government has emphasized that “not just anyone” can qualify for this visa as a digital nomad. As of now, there are no specific requirements regarding minimum income, employer, or social media followers.
Thai Soft Power Activities
These activities promote the awareness and prestige of Thailand’s culture and economy, enhancing the country’s international standing. If you plan to engage in one of these activities long-term while in Thailand, you may qualify for a DTV. Currently, the recognized soft power activities include:
- Muay Thai courses
- Thai cooking classes
- Sports training
- Medical treatment
- Seminars
- Music festivals
Dependents of Primary DTV Holders
A key benefit of the Destination Thailand Visa is the ability to obtain dependent visas for your family members, allowing them to accompany you without needing separate visa arrangements. There is no limit on the number of dependents you can bring, though each will require a visa fee. You may only include immediate family members—spouses and dependent children—on your DTV.
How to Qualify for the Destination Thailand Visa
To be eligible for the Destination Thailand Visa, all applicants must meet the following basic requirements:
- You must be at least 20 years old.
- You must have no history of significant visa overstays recorded by Thai Immigration.
- You must have at least 500,000 THB in liquid assets to demonstrate your ability to support yourself while in Thailand.
- Alternatively, Thai Immigration may permit a sponsor within Thailand to act as a guarantor if they possess the required funds and agree to support you in writing.
- Be aware that the embassy where you apply may require you to show a higher amount in your bank account.
For dependents of DTV holders:
- You must be the legal spouse of the DTV holder, OR
- You must be a legally recognized dependent child of the DTV holder, under 20 years old, and unmarried.
Once you confirm that you and any accompanying family members meet the eligibility criteria for the DTV, you can begin gathering the necessary documentation for your application.
Required Documents for the Destination Thailand Visa
Below is a list of the essential documents you need to submit with your DTV application. Keep in mind that each visa category may have additional specific requirements.
- Passport or Other Travel Document
- Passport-Sized Photograph
- Document Indicating Your Current Location
- Proof of Visa Fee Payment (10,000 THB)
- Note: Visa fees may vary depending on the country.
- Evidence of Sufficient Financial Assets (500,000 THB)
- This can include:
- Bank statements
- Payslips
- Sponsorship letters
- This can include:
Documents Specific to Your Purpose of Visit (Based on Visa Category):
- Workcation – An employment contract, employment certificate, or a professional portfolio showcasing your freelance work.
- Thai Soft Power Activities – Proof of confirmation to attend the activity, or a letter of appointment from a hospital or medical clinic.
- Dependent – Marriage certificate, birth certificate, adoption papers, or another official document proving your relationship to the primary DTV holder.
Once you have gathered and prepared these documents according to Thai Immigration’s standards, you can begin the application process.
Where to Apply for the Destination Thailand Visa
There are two options for applying for the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV). First, you can apply in person at your local Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate, similar to other Thai tourist visas. However, for the DTV, you must apply from the country where your employment is based.
Since procedures may vary between embassies and consulates, it’s advisable to call ahead to confirm that they accept DTV applications and to inquire about the specific process. Also, ask about the visa fee, as it may differ from the standard 10,000 THB.
Typically, you’ll need to schedule an appointment, bring all required documents, present them to the immigration officer, and wait for a decision. Depending on the embassy, you may receive your visa the same day or within a few days.
The second option is to apply online through the Thailand e-Visa website. You’ll need to complete the application via the online portal and upload or mail your documents for approval. This method might take longer but saves you from needing to travel. As with the in-person application, this must be done from your country of employment.
Visa Extensions for the DTV
As previously mentioned, you can extend your DTV to add another 180 days to your initial stay. This extension is available once per entry, allowing you to stay in Thailand for nearly a year before needing to leave.
To extend your DTV, you’ll need to visit a Thai Immigration office near you in person and pay an extension fee of 1,900 THB.
Destination Thailand Visa Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this new visa option, which may help you decide if the DTV is right for you.
Can I work for a Thai company on a DTV?
No, your employer must be either yourself or a foreign company.
Do I have to pay taxes on my foreign income as a DTV holder?
It depends. If you stay in Thailand for more than 180 days in a calendar year, the Thai government considers you a tax resident, and you’ll be liable for Thai taxes on your foreign income. However, if your foreign income is taxed in your home country and that country has a Double Tax Agreement with Thailand, you might be exempt from double taxation.
How much does the Destination Thailand Visa cost?
The initial fee for the DTV is 10,000 THB. However, because you must apply from outside Thailand, the fee may vary depending on the embassy or consulate. Each extension of the visa costs an additional 1,900 THB.
