Destination Thailand Visa: the cost and requirements unveiled
Thailand has introduced the requirements for the digital nomad visa. A five-year Destination Thailand Visa will allow foreign remote workers to stay in the country for up to 180 days per year.
To obtain a digital nomad visa in Thailand, applicants need to be over 20 years old and demonstrate savings of at least 500,000 THB, or $13,750, in their bank account.
Learn who is eligible for a new Thailand Nomad Visa and if it is worth applying.
Author •Elena Ruda
Chief Development Officer at Immigrant Invest
Thailand announced plans to launch a digital nomad visa in spring 2024. The official name of the residence permit is the Destination Thailand Visa. It is designed for foreign remote workers and freelancers who want to immerse themselves in Thai culture while maintaining work responsibilities.
The cost and preliminary requirements of the Digital Nomad Thailand Visa were disclosed in May 2024. The government intends to announce the launch date by the end of July.
How to be a digital nomad in Thailand
Who is eligible? A Digital Nomad Visa in Thailand will be granted to foreigners over 20 who work remotely for international companies or clients outside Thailand. Digital nomads can also bring their spouses and children under 20.
Expenses. To demonstrate sufficient funds for staying in Thailand, applicants must have at least 500,000 THB, or $13,750, in their bank account. Digital nomads in Thailand also need to pay a visa fee of 10,000 THB, or $275.
Restrictions. Destination Thailand Visa holders are not allowed to work for local companies. Changing the visa type will terminate the Thailand Nomad Visa.
The application process details are to be announced further.
5 benefits of Digital Nomad Thailand Visa
1. Extended stay in Thailand. Digital nomads can live in the country for up to 180 days a year, with the right to extend the stay for another 180 days. Previously, visitors were allowed to reside in Thailand for two periods of up to 30 days each.
2. Family relocation. The Destination Thailand Visa allows digital nomads to bring their spouse and children under 20 years old. These family members can obtain the visa together with the main applicant.
3. Tax optimisation. Digital nomads in Thailand are exempt from income tax from foreign sources. They only pay taxes in the country where the income comes from.
4. Affordable cost of living. The cost of living in Thailand is significantly lower compared to many EU countries. A single person in Thailand needs around $567 per month, excluding rent. This is 60% lower than in Italy and twice as affordable as in the USA.
5. Low visa expenses. According to the current requirements, applicants pay only 10,000 THB, or $275, as the visa fee and demonstrate savings of 500,000 THB, or $13,750. The required monthly income for most digital nomad visas in the EU is €3,000 or more.
