As digital nomads and remote workers, your lifestyle may take you to many corners of the world, but Thailand stands out as one of the top destinations. With the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), Thailand is even more accessible for long-term stays. Coupled with LUMA’s health insurance tailored for digital nomads, you can focus on your work and adventures without worrying about your health coverage.
What are the benefits of a DTV ?
The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) offers several benefits to digital nomads and long-term visitors. The validity of the visa is for 5 years, and a length of stay of up to 180 days per entry. This type of visa is extendable once per year, providing flexibility for work, travel, and living. The visa promotes ease of doing business, including setting up remote work or collaborating with Thai companies. Additionally, DTV holders can benefit from Thailand’s relatively low cost of living, rich cultural experiences, and excellent transportation networks, making it an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced work and lifestyle environment.
What are the different Destination Thailand Visa Categories?
The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) offers different categories tailored to various types of long-term visitors:
- Workcation (Digital Nomads, Remote Workers, Foreign Talent and Freelancers)
- Thai Soft Power related activities (e.g. Muaythai, Thai culinary training and medical treatment)
- Dependent – for family members of the primary visa holders.
Each category comes with specific income, investment, or professional requirements, offering long-term residency and numerous perks like ease of travel, work permits, and access to premium healthcare.
What are the requirements for a DTV?
Destination Thailand Visa requirements for Workcation
The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) for a “Workcation” is designed for remote workers and digital nomads who want to combine work with leisure in Thailand. The requirements include:
1. Employment: Applicants must work remotely for a company located outside Thailand or own a business abroad.
2. Financial evidence: Proof of funds amounting to no less than 500,000 THB. Acceptable documents may include recent bank statements showing sufficient balance, a sponsorship letter from a qualified individual or entity, or other relevant financial documents demonstrating your financial capability to support your stay in Thailand.
Destination Thailand Visa requirements for Thai Soft Power related activities
The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) for Thai Soft Power-related activities is tailored to professionals and individuals who contribute to promoting Thailand’s culture, arts, and creative industries. The requirements include:
1.Industry Focus: Applicants must work in fields related to Thai Soft Power, such as Thai film and arts, fashion, Thai culinary training, MuayThai, or other cultural and creative industries.
2.Financial evidence: You must provide proof of funds totaling at least 500,000 THB. Acceptable forms of documentation include recent bank statements that reflect a sufficient balance, a sponsorship letter from a recognized individual or organization.
Destination Thailand Visa requirements for medical treatment
The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) for individuals seeking medical treatment offers long-term residency for those who wish to receive ongoing healthcare in Thailand. The requirements include:
1.Purpose: Applicants must seek medical treatment in Thailand, such as long-term care, rehabilitation, or specialized treatments offered by Thai healthcare providers.
2.Healthcare Facility: Proof of confirmation or letter of appointment from an accredited hospital or medical center in Thailand.
3.Financial evidence: You must provide proof of funds totaling at least 500,000 THB. Evidence which are accepted could be recent bank statements that reflect the financial requirement is met, or a sponsorship letter.
4.Medical Records: Applicants may need to provide medical records justifying their treatment in Thailand.
Visa Duration: Depending on the treatment, the visa can be extended for family members or caregivers accompanying the patient.
DTV Visa requirements for Spouse and dependents
- Primary Visa Holder: The spouse or dependent must be related to an individual holding a valid DTV.
- Relationship Proof: Proof of marriage or legal dependency (e.g., birth certificates for children) must be provided.
- Age Restrictions: Dependents include children under 20 years old.
Health Insurance Requirements for the DTV
Currently, health insurance is not a mandatory requirement for the DTV, however it is highly recommended to get comprehensive health insurance coverage to ensure that any unexpected medical expenses, such as illness, or injuries are fully taken care of.
LUMA offers full coverage international health insurance plans, allowing you to travel within the region and still be covered for medical treatments. Most suited for those interested in the DTV, whether you are returning home for a break, or exploring local wonders, LUMA can offer medical coverage to ensure you are protected throughout the year. With proper IPMI plans, you are able to visit the leading international hospitals and clinics, and the confidence that there are English speaking staff and doctors to ensure that you are getting the best and correct treatment required.
How to apply for a Destination Thailand Visa?
Gather Required Documents:
- Valid Passport: Ensure your passport has at least six months of validity remaining.
- Recent Passport-Sized Photograph: Include a current photo that meets passport requirements.
- Proof of Financial Capability: Provide documentation such as bank statements or a sponsorship letter.
- Confirmation of Participation: If you are applying for Thai Soft Power related activities, you are required to submit evidence of involvement in the course or activity you are enrolled in.
Choose Your Application Method:
Online Application: Visit the official Thai e-visa website, follow the prompts to complete the application form, and upload the necessary documents.
In-Person Application: If you prefer to apply in person or if online applications are not available, visit the nearest Thai embassy or consulate.
IMPORTANT: You must apply for your DTV before you arrive in Thailand, you will not be able to apply for the Destination Thailand Visa whilst currently in Thailand.
Submit Your Application and Pay Fees:
After completing the application and uploading the required documents, submit it and pay the applicable visa fees.
Await Visa Approval:
Processing times for the DTV can vary, with some cases taking a few days, and some can take a few weeks. There is no set timeframe for the Visa Approval, and each case is unique as additional supporting documents can be requested. You may be able to track your application status online or by contacting the embassy or consulate directly.
Collect Your Visa:
Upon approval, you can either collect your visa in person at the embassy or consulate, or it may be sent to you by mail.
How much does a Destination Thailand Visa Cost?
The cost of a Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is 10,000 THB and is valid for 5 years, with a duration of stay up to 180 days per entry. This fee covers the processing and application costs associated with obtaining the visa.
Do I pay tax on my foreign income while holding a DTV?
Depending on the length of your stay, you could be considered as a tax resident by the Thai government. When residing over 180 days of a calendar year in Thailand, you may be liable to pay Thai taxes on your foreign income as you are considered a tax resident, even if you are holding a DTV.
In regards to avoiding your income being taxed twice, this will depend on each country as there are some Double Tax Agreements with Thailand in place.