Thailand is a great place and a perfect destination for a getaway. One of the best parts about this country is that it gives remote workers a wonderful opportunity to live there. A digital nomad visa allows remote workers to stay in a country while working remotely.
While Thailand doesn’t have a digital nomad visa in the literal sense, some of its variations are just as good.
If you want to know more about Thailand Digital Nomad Visa then keep reading this article.
Does Thailand have a Digital Nomad Visa?
No, unfortunately, Thailand does not have a digital nomad visa per se. However, there are still ways for digital nomads to enjoy the same benefits. Thailand introduced a long-term work visa in 2022 that serves a similar purpose. Other than that, there are other alternate options as well.
Alternate Options
The smart visa
The smart visa is a perfect option for entrepreneurs, highly skilled professionals, and qualified workers who want to become a part of Thailand’s workspace. It is especially adequate for those digital nomads and remote workers who are involved in the technological industry. This visa has some strict requirements but it stays valid for an uninterrupted period of 4 years. Acquiring this visa also means that you won’t need a work permit to stay and work in the country.
Thai Elite Visa
Thai elite visa is a long-term visa that has a validity of 5 years. You also have the option of extending it for 1 more year after the initial 5 years have passed. However, this visa does not allow you to get involved with a Thai company so you’ll need a work permit.
Here are some types of Thai elite visas:
| Elite easy access | Valid for 5 years |
| Elite privilege access | Valid for 10 years |
| Elite family excursion | Valid for 10 years (for couples) |
| Elite family alternative | Valid for 5 years + another 5 years |
| Elite ultimate privelege | Valid for 20 years |
| Elite family premium | Valid for family members of elite ultimate privilege visa |
| Elite superiority extension | Valid for 20 years |
Tourist Visa
The Tourist Visa is the most commonly used visa by Digital nomads. This visa will remain valid for 60 days initially and allow 30 days extension after that. However, be sure to remember that digital nomads and remote workers aren’t allowed to work in Thailand through this visa. Not acting on these will lead to penalties and deportation.
There are two types of Thai tourist visas. 1) single entry 2) multiple entry.
Who can Apply for the Thailand Digital Nomad Visa?
You must fulfill the eligibility criteria in order to apply for any of these visas. Pay attention to this part as each is uniquely specific in its own way.
Smart Visa
- Entrepreneurs (start-ups)
- Investors
- Qualifies workers
- Executive members
- Someone who is dependent on a smart visa holder.
Thai elite visa
- Applicant must possess a non-Thai passport
- Clean criminal record
- No record of overstaying (more than once)
- No record of bankruptcy proceedings in the past
Thai tourist visa
- Tourists from most countries
- Visitors
- Retirees
- Medical tourists
- Family and friends
- Remote workers and digital nomads
Remember that it is best to consult a Thai embassy or consulate to learn if you satisfy the eligibility requirements of the specific digital nomad visa.
How to Apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in Thailand?
Here’s a step-by-step guide to how you can apply for a Thailand visa.
- Choose from the different visa types
We have discussed various visas above. Each has its unique traits so you must choose the one that suits your preferences. The best way to do that is by looking at the eligibility criteria and costs.
Smart visa
- If you choose smart visa then you need to go to this website and apply online.
- You must submit proof of qualifications as defined by The office of the Board of Investments.
- You will receive technical and non-technical endorsements after your qualifications have been verified.
- SMART visa unit will issue a letter of qualification endorsement.
- Once you receive the letter, go to this website and make a Smart Visa issuance appointment.
- Show up to your appointment with all the required documents.
- Pay the visa fee.
You can collect your visa at the Thai embassy, immigration at OSS in Thailand, or at a consulate in your home country.
Thai elite visa
- If you decide to go with the Thai elite visa then go to this website and apply online.
- Wait for approval from the immigration
- Pay the visa fee by card or bank transfer
- Enter Thailand
Tourist visa
- Create an account on the Thai e-visa website
- Fill in the application form
- Submit the required documents
- Make the payment
- Wait for feedback
How Much Does it Cost?
Smart visa
A smart visa costs somewhere around 272$ per year. However, this amount can change based on local economy and currency fluctuations.
Thai elite visa
| Elite easy access | – |
| Elite privilege access | Costs around 27000$ |
| Elite family excursion | Costs around 22000$ |
| Elite family alternative | Costs around 22000$ |
| Elite ultimate privilege | Costs around 58000$ + an additional 600$ |
| Elite family premium | – |
| Elite superiority extension | Costs around 27000$ |
Thai tourist visa
For US citizens, the Thai tourist visa application fee is 30$ per entry. However, this amount may change based on currency fluctuations and other factors. Make sure to consult a Thai embassy or consulate in your country.
Thailand Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
There are some requirements that you must fulfill in order to get this visa.
Documentations
You must have the required documents with you during the time of your visa application.
- Valid passport
- Copy of the passport
- Filled-out application form
- A printed and filled-out TM90 form
- Notification letter from the Thailand Board of Investment to the immigration bureau
- One passport-sized photo
- 2 copies of a printed-out STM.6 form (it must be printed on both sides)
- Acknowledgement form of penalties for a visa overstay
- Acknowledgement form of practices for smart visa recipients
- Full health insurance coverage
Financial requirements
Smart visa
If you want to avail a Smart visa then you must invest a minimum of 50k$ in a Thailand-based company. If not, then you must submit proof of making 80k$ annually.
Thai elite visa
As for this visa type, there is no minimum income requirement. If you can pay the amount stated earlier and you don’t have any bankruptcy charges then you are eligible.
Tourist visa
If you want to apply for a single entry tourist visa then your savings account must have a minimum of 700$. As for a multiple-entry tourist visa, your bank account must show a balance of 4 lakh.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Thailand Digital Nomad Visa?
The duration of the visa application process depends on various factors but here is a rough estimate of each.
Smart visa
The processing time for a smart visa is 3 working days for initial online applications, 30 days for your qualifications’ endorsement, and 2-10 days for the processing of your application. This time may also vary based on the burden on your department.
Thai elite visa
A Thai elite visa will take 4-12 weeks to get processed. The processing time mainly depends on your nationality and the accuracy of your application.
Tourist visa
It may take 10-15 working days to hear back from the authorities. Your application will face additional delays if the documents are invalid or incorrect.
3 Benefits of the Thailand Digital Nomad Visa
1. Low cost of living
One of the best things about Thailand is its affordable cost of living. Most digital nomads live on a budget which makes Thailand a popular destination among the community. You can enjoy various facilities such as entertainment and transport at low rates. Not only that but basic necessities such as accommodation and food are also very cheap. With these prices, it is safe to say that Thailand is one of the cheapest countries in the world, especially in comparison to Western countries.
2. Fast internet
Furthermore, this place is perfect for remote workers because of its high-speed internet connection. You can stay in this dreamy country without having to worry about falling back into work. In addition to a reliable internet connection, you can also get local SIM cards. You’d be surprised to hear that some providers offer unlimited data for a low rate of 10$ per month! Free wifi is easily available at cafes, co-working spaces, and restaurants.
3. Friendly locals
Another benefit of going to Thailand is that you get to live among the friendly locals. Thailand is known as the “land of smiles” for a reason. The welcoming and hospitable community makes Thailand worth visiting. You’ll find it really easy to make friends, blend in, and feel right at home. You can also network with fellow digital nomads and enter the community.
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Do Digital Nomads Pay Tax in Thailand?
Thailand is also a good place to live as a remote worker because of its accommodating tax system. As per the law, you’ll only be subjected to taxes if you spend more than 180 days in the country. Hence, if you are here on a tourist visa for about 90 days then you won’t even be considered a tax resident.
Even if you do spend more than 180 days and have tax residency, there are still some additional benefits. Thailand’s territorial tax regime system declares that tax is only subjected to income made within the country or brought inside it.
Previously, taxes were not levied on foreign income that was made before the person entered the country but the Thai government has changed that now.
Renew Digital Nomad Visa Thailand
Smart visa
A smart visa stays valid for one year and it has the scope to be extended for 4 years. You are recommended to apply for a renewal 60 days before the determined expiry date. The renewal will cost 272$ per year.
Thailand elite visa
This is the longest-stay visa in Thailand and it offers 5 years renewal multi-entry to its members. You can go to the provincial immigration office and request a maximum 5-year extension. Make sure to go before the expiry date.
Thai tourist visa
A Thai tourist visa originally remains valid for 60 days. Once that period has passed, you can go to a local immigration office and request a 30-day extension. You are advised to extend it before the expiration date has passed.
Frequently asked questions
How can you pay the visa fee?
If you are applying in person, you can pay through cash, bank transfer, or card. As for online applications, there are still several ways to make the payment. You can pay the fee via credit card or debit card. Paypal has also been added as an option.
What is the best place for digital nomads in Thailand?
Chang Mai is one of the best places for digital nomads. This place offers budget-friendly accommodation for an average remote worker. Other than that, there are also a bunch of coworking spaces and a huge digital nomad community here.
What is the cost of living in Thailand?
Thailand is an extremely affordable country for a digital nomad lifestyle. If you live on a tight budget, you can expect to spend 700$ per month. The cost of living will vary based on your lifestyle and spending patterns.
What is the minimum income requirement for digital nomads in Thailand?
The minimum income requirement depends on the type of visa you’re applying for. For instance, the Thai elite visa doesn’t have an income requirement at all while the tourist visa requires there to be 700$ in your savings account.
Can I work in Thailand on a tourist visa?
No, tourists are not allowed to work in Thailand if they are here on a 60-day tourist visa. You’ll need a work visa or perhaps even a ltr visa for that.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, even though the Kingdom of Thailand doesn’t have a digital nomad visa, there are several other alternatives. Together, these visa options cover a wide variety of cases and cater for all interested parties. If you don’t like the terms of one of these visas, you can look into another until you find an adequate visa.
What we are saying is that Thailand is a stunning destination so if you are intent on going there, you can always find a way.
We hope this article helped you understand Thailand’s digital nomad visa. If you still have any more questions, feel free to contact us.
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