
For those looking for a spot to spend a long workation, look towards Thailand. The country is now offering Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) for people who want to work remotely. It is a long-term tourist visa that lets you stay in the country legally. "This visa allows holders to stay in Thailand and work remotely for companies or clients based in other countries, all without the usual immigration and tax worries," according to the Thai embassy.
It is a multiple-entry visa that lasts for five years. If you are working for a company based outside Thailand, this visa allows you to stay in Thailand for a total of 180 days per year. You can extend it for another 180 days depending on your requirements. So if you are someone who works fully remotely and dreams of being on a long vacation without getting into the hassles of visa extension, then the Destination Thailand Visa is for you. With this visa, you can be on the beach while you click away on your laptop and not worry about immigration and tax issues.
This visa will cost you 10,000 THB (approximately Rs 23,078).
The application process details are still being worked through and are expected to be released in July itself. To be eligible to apply for the DTV, you must be at least 20 years of age. Your bank account needs to have 500,000 THB (around Rs 11,53,944) so that you are able to pay for necessities while you are living in Thailand. You also need to provide proof of employment with a registered company.
The visa is best for people visiting Thailand for Muay Thai, education and seminars, sports activities, medical treatments or events related to arts and music. There are several other advantages of getting a DTV. In comparison to other Southeast Asian countries, the income requirement is quite low. The option to work remotely for foreign companies is one of the biggest advantages. If you stay for up to 180 days, no tax needs to be paid on income gained from foreign sources. The DTV also allows you to bring your spouse and children under 20 years of age with you.
Thailand now offers visa-free entry to people from 93 countries and territories. Earlier, this number was 57 regions. Visitors can now stay for up to 60 days. Visa on arrival will now be extended to 31 territories. All changes will take effect after being published in the Royal Gazette.