DTV Visa Thailand

In July of 2024, the Thai government launched a wave of measures designed to increase tourism and stimulate the economy, and one of the most significant was the introduction of the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV). Also known as the DTV Visa Thailand, this new long-term Thai visa is aimed squarely at digital nomads and freelancers, but is also geared toward those hoping to take part in Thai cultural activities or undergo medical tourism.

If you fall into any of these categories, the DTV Visa Thailand could be a good option if you plan on spending extended periods of time in the Land of Smiles. It has relatively few eligibility requirements and provides a convenient long-term visa that allows for flexible traveling.

This page will explain what the DTV allows you to do, who is eligible to apply for it, and how to get one for yourself. We'll also answer some frequently asked questions we get about this visa, so you can make an informed decision on if this immigration solution is right for you.

What is the Destination Thailand Visa?

This DTV is a kind of tourist visa in Thailand. This means you cannot get a work permit to work for a Thai company, and you are prohibited from doing certain other things that require non-tourist visas such as domestically adopting a child in Thailand or working toward permanent residency in Thailand.

However, the DTV still offers a long-term, flexible stay in Thailand and the freedom to engage in most other pursuits. Let's take a look at the basic facts:

• 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 (must still be outside Thailand)
• Option to Include Family: Yes

If you hold a DTV, you can leave and re-enter Thailand as many times as you want without having to apply for a re-entry permit as other Thai tourist visas require. However, each time you enter Thailand, you can only stay for 180 days, after which point you will need to leave and return to reset your stay and get another 180 days.

Alternatively, once per entry, you may extend the DTV for another 180 days on top of your existing 180 day stay. If you take this route, you are able to stay in Thailand for nearly a year before having to leave and return. Keep in mind, though, that this will cost an additional fee (see below).

The DTV Visa Thailand works this way because it is designed for digital nomads and online freelancers who want to spend extended periods of time in Thailand both working and enjoying the country. You can have a "workcation" in Thailand before moving on to your next location, and return whenever it strikes your fancy.

Who is Eligible for the DTV Visa Thailand?

There are three categories of DTV, and which one applies to you will depend on your plans in Thailand.

Workcation (Digital Nomads, Freelancers, Remote Workers)

As mentioned above, the main target of this visa is for those who can work from anywhere in the world. Whether you work remotely for a foreign company or are in business for yourself as a freelancer, this visa is available to you.

The Thai government was quick to point out that "not just anyone" can get this visa as a digital nomad. However, at the time of this writing, no minimum income, employer, or social media follower requirements have been introduced.

Thai Soft Power Activities

These activities enhance the awareness and prestige of Thailand's culture and economy, thereby improving the Kingdom's standing in the international community. If you plan to engage in one of these activities long-term while in Thailand, you may be eligible to get a DTV to do so. As of the time of this writing, the acceptable soft power activities include:

• Muay Thai courses
• Thai cooking classes
• Sport training
• Medical treatment
• Seminars
• Music festivals

Note that for the best chance of approval, the activity you enroll in should have a duration of no less than 6 months.

Dependents of Primary DTV Visa Holders

Another significant advantage of the Destination Thailand Visa is the ability to get dependent visas for your family members so you can bring them along without having to worry about separate visa arrangements. There is no limit to how many dependents you can bring, but each incurs a visa fee, and you may only include immediate family members onto your DTV, meaning that only spouses and dependent children are eligible.

How to Get a DTV Visa Thailand

The process of applying for a DTV Visa Thailand is similar to the standard Thai tourist visa, but there are a few extra considerations and criteria that must be met to ensure a successful application.

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How to qualify for the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)?

All applicants must meet basic criteria to be considered for this visa:

• You must be at least 20 years old.
• You must not have a history of long visa overstays on record with Thai Immigration.
• You must have at least 500,000 THB (or international equivalent) in liquid assets to prove that you can support yourself while in Thailand.
• Alternatively, Thai Immigration may allow a sponsor in Thailand to act as a guarantor if they have the required funds and agree to support you in writing.
• Also, note that the embassy you apply from may demand to see a higher amount in your bank account.

For dependents of DTV Visa holders:

• You must be a legal spouse of the DTV holder OR<.li>
• You must be a legally recognized dependent child of the DTV holder, younger than 20 years old, and unmarried.

Once you are certain that you and any family you might bring qualify for the DTV, it's time to collect some documentation for your application packet.

Required Documents for DTV Visa Thailand

The following is a list of all the documents you will need to include with your DTV application; however, note that each category of this visa has some additional documentation requirements.

• Passport biodata page or other travel document
• Passport-sized photograph (on a white background)
• Proof of current location such as a residence permit or passport stamp
• Proof of payment of the visa fee (varies depending on the consulate; typically 400 to 500 USD)
• Evidence of sufficient financial assets (at least 500,000 THB, likely more depending on the embassy) which can take the form of:
  • A 6-month official bank statement (crypto or other investment statements are not accepted)
  • Payslips
  • Sponsorship letters
• Document proving purpose of visit (unique category requirements):
• Workcation:
• Employees:
• A Certificate of Employment or Employment Contract
• A letter from your employer confirming your remote work status and ongoing salary
• Personal tax return and recent payslips (optional but recommended)
• Business Owners:
• A Certificate of Incorporation
• Corporate tax return
• Cover letter
• Freelancers:
• A professional portfolio or evidence of freelance work (e.g., invoices, screenshots of profiles on platforms like Fiverr, LinkedIn, or personal websites).
• Thai Soft Power Activities: Proof of confirmation to attend cultural, educational, or professional development activities in Thailand, as well as supporting documents such as a copy of the institution’s business registration. It is important to note that the Thai cultural activity should be at least 6 months long. Any shorter and you risk having your application denied.
• Dependent: Marriage certificate, birth certificate, adoption papers, or another official document proving their relationship to the primary DTV holder

Dependent: Marriage certificate, birth certificate, adoption papers, or another official document proving their relationship to the primary DTV Visa holders

NOTE: There are no set standards or requirements for how these documents need to be prepared or presented. Acceptance is solely at the discretion of the Thai embassy officers.

This is why it is recommended to have our DTV visa consultants review your application packet. We've handled many successful applications for a wide variety of applicants, so we know what Thai authorities are looking for when reviewing documentation for approval.

Where to apply for the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)?

You cannot apply for a DTV while in Thailand, you must leave the country first. With that being said, you have a couple of options when it comes to choosing a method of applying for the Destination Thailand Visa. First, like with other Thai tourist visas, you can apply in person at most Royal Thai Embassies or Consulates outside of Thailand.

However, it is important to keep in mind that some embassies and consulates may not accept applications from non-residents who do not hold long-term visas or residence permits in their country. Before starting the application process, it is recommended that you confirm your eligibility with your local embassy or consulate. Also inquire about their DTV visa fee, as it may be different than the standard 10,000 THB.

You’ll likely have to make an appointment, arrive with all documents in hand, present them to the immigration officer, and then await your answer. If you are approved, you may get your visa the same day, or you might have to wait a few days depending on the embassy you applied through.

The other method is through the Thailand e-Visa website if the local Thai embassy allows it. You’ll need to navigate the website’s online application portal and upload or mail your documentation to be considered for approval. This method may take more time, but it eliminates the need to travel anywhere to get your DTV.

Visa Extensions for the DTV

As mentioned above, you can renew your DTV to get an additional 180 days added to your 180-day stay limit. You can do this once per entry, meaning that with an extension you can stay in Thailand for nearly a whole year without having to leave again.

To extend your DTV, you will need to go to Thai Immigration at Chaeng Wattana in person. You’ll also need to pay the extension fee of 1,900 THB.

Alternative Long-Term Thai Visas

If the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) doesn't quite meet your needs, consider these other options for long-term stays in Thailand.

LTR Visa Thailand

If you'd like a more permanent arrangement for working remotely from the Kingdom, consider Thailand's Long-Term Resident Visa (LTR Visa Thailand). It has a category specifically for remote workers in Thailand and provides a 10-year stay with the same flexible multiple-entry visa, and you need not leave the country or extend your visa every year to stay legally.

Furthermore, as an LTR holder, your foreign income earned is completely exempt from Thai income tax. Also, as with the DTV, the LTR allows you to bring up to 4 immediate family members and provides several other attractive benefits.

Thailand Elite Visa

This premium visa is available through the Thailand Privilege Program. There are 5 membership tiers, each providing a Thailand Elite Visa with stays from 5 to 20 years in the Kingdom. It is similar to the DTV in that you cannot work on this visa, but it also provides flexible travel arrangements and the freedom to come and go as you please.

What really sets the Thai Elite Visa apart, though, is the massive wealth of benefits and VIP privileges that it provides you. Access to luxury lounges and immigration fast-track at airports, discounts, and special promotions at leading restaurants and retailers, a points system that lets you choose from a wide selection of free perks, and much more: the Thailand Elite Visa delivers everything you need to live a life of ease and comfort in the Kingdom.

Get Professional Assistance with Your DTV Application

If you’re looking to secure a Destination Thailand Visa for yourself or an alternative long-term visa in Thailand, contact us at Siam Legal. As a full-service law firm and visa consultancy with over 20 years of experience helping clients from across the world secure their Thai visas, we have the knowledge and expertise to find the ideal solution for you.

Siam Legal’s experienced and bilingual visa consultants will walk you through the application process for the DTV or another Thai visa of your choice and provide expert advice. This will ensure you get your visa swiftly and successfully so you can spend your time and energy on preparing for an exciting stay in Thailand.

Thailand DTV Visa FAQs

Here are some questions that we often get regarding this exciting new visa option. Hopefully, the answers will help you decide if Thailand's DTV visa is for you.

Can I apply for the DTV if I am currently in Thailand?

You can prepare and submit documents while in Thailand, but the application must be submitted from outside the country.

Do I need health insurance to apply for the DTV?

Health insurance is not mandatory for the DTV application. However, it is strongly recommended to have a comprehensive policy to cover any unforeseen medical expenses during your stay in Thailand.

Is there a specific income requirement for the Workation category?

No, there is no specific minimum income requirement for the DTV under the Workation category.

Do I have to pay taxes on my foreign income as a DTV Visa holder?

That depends. Anyone who stays in Thailand for over 180 days out of a calendar year is considered a tax resident by the Thai government. If you are a tax resident, you are liable to pay Thai taxes on foreign income that you bring into the country.

You may be exempt from this if your foreign income is taxed by your home country, and that country has a Double Tax Agreement with Thailand, which prevents income from being taxed twice. Speak with a Thai tax advisor to learn more.

How much does the Destination Thailand Visa cost?

The initial visa fee is 10,000 THB for a Thai destination visa. But again, keep in mind that because you must apply for this visa from outside Thailand, the embassy or consulate you apply from may charge a different DTV visa fee.

You can extend the visa once per entry, with each extension costing an additional 1,900 THB.

Is it called the DTV Visa, Destination Thailand Visa, or the Digital Nomad Visa?

The Destination Thailand Visa is called the DTV for short. Many people also mislabel it as the "DTV Visa," in the same way they say "ATM Machine" or "PIN Number," but they are referring to the same thing. This visa is also sometimes referred to as the Thailand Digital Nomad Visa when comparing it to similar visas from neighboring countries in the SEA region. They are different names for the same visa.

What is Thai Culinary Training?

Thai Culinary Training involves structured programs designed to teach individuals the techniques and traditions of Thai cuisine. These programs are typically offered by professional cooking schools or chefs in Thailand. Enrollment in such a program qualifies as a "Thai Soft Power" activity, which is one of the categories under the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV).

What is Thai Soft Power?

Thai Soft Power refers to activities that promote Thai culture, heritage, and traditions. These include engaging in Muay Thai training, culinary courses, seminars, wellness programs, traditional arts, music festivals, and other cultural or educational endeavors in Thailand. The DTV specifically includes this category to attract individuals interested in experiencing and contributing to Thailand's cultural ecosystem.

Is the DTV Visa a multiple entry visa?

Yes, the DTV Visa allows multiple entries. You can exit and re-enter Thailand as needed during the validity of the visa.

Can I work for a Thai company on a DTV?

No, your employer must either be yourself or a foreign company.

Can I apply for a Thai work permit under a DTV Visa Thailand?

No, the DTV does not permit holders to work in Thailand. It is strictly for remote workers, freelancers, or those engaging in Thai Soft Power activities. To legally work in Thailand, you would need a work permit under a Non-Immigrant B Visa.

What additional documents might be needed for my DTV application?

In addition to standard requirements, additional documents may include:

• Proof of current location
• Proof of enrollment in Thai Soft Power activities
• Portfolio or professional references
• Bank statements or proof of sufficient funds

What are the advantages of the DTV Visa Thailand?

• Long-Term Stay: Stay in Thailand for up to 5 years
• Multiple Entries: Freedom to travel in and out of Thailand during the visa's validity.
• Remote Work and Freelance Opportunities: Catered to digital nomads and freelancers.
• Cultural Immersion: Participate in Thai Soft Power activities, such as Muay Thai, wellness programs, and culinary arts.
• Simplified Process: Online applications are available for eligible nationalities.
• Bring your Family to Thailand: Spouses and children can be included under the primary applicant’s visa.

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