As remote work becomes more prevalent in a post-pandemic world, several countries are innovating to attract global workers. Recently, Turkey, Canada, Italy, and Japan have introduced digital nomad visas, inviting remote workers to live within their borders for six months to a year. Not wanting to be outdone, Thailand has also launched an ambitious digital nomad visa program.
On May 30, Thailand revealed a new visa program that allows remote workers to stay in the country for up to five years. This program encourages remote work from vibrant coworking spaces in Bangkok or beachside cafés in Koh Samui. Unlike other visa programs, it also targets individuals interested in long-term cultural immersion. The effective date of the new measures will be announced upon the completion of final legal procedures.
Named the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), this program caters to digital nomads, remote workers, freelancers, and those interested in learning muay Thai boxing and Thai cuisine, according to Chai Wacharonke, the foreign ministry spokesman. Applicants must be at least 20 years old and either self-employed or employed by a business outside Thailand. The visa application fee is 10,000 Thai baht (approximately $272).
Interestingly, the program does not specify a minimum income requirement, unlike many other remote worker visas. For example, Spain and Iceland require monthly incomes of $2,800 and $7,700, respectively. This makes the DTV significantly different from Thailand’s previous Long-Term Residence Visa, which required a $1,600 fee and proof of an annual income of at least $80,000. The new visa also allows approved applicants to bring their spouses and children without requiring additional visas.
Once the visa becomes available, interested individuals can apply online through the official Thai e-visa website or by making an appointment at a Thai consulate or embassy. However, applicants should note that the visa requires holders to leave and reenter Thailand every 180 days, paying the visa fee each time.
Thailand has long been a favorite among digital nomads and expats due to its low cost of living, excellent cuisine, friendly people, and affordable housing. The country recently ranked as one of the top destinations for expats. Additionally, Thailand offers great value for the American dollar, further boosting its appeal.
The popularity of Thailand is expected to increase, partly due to the upcoming third season of HBO’s anthology miniseries, The White Lotus, set to be filmed in the country and tentatively scheduled for release in 2025. The first two seasons of the series significantly boosted tourism to the filming locations, Hawaii and Sicily, a phenomenon now known as “The White Lotus Effect.”