Visa exemption on arrival
Citizens of many countries get a visa-exemption stamp on arrival — commonly 30 or 60 days depending on nationality (check your own country's current allowance). You may be asked for onward travel and proof of accommodation; an exit ticket within the stamp period is worth having, as airlines check it at boarding. The stamp can usually be extended once at an immigration office (1,900 THB).
DTV — the remote worker's visa
The Destination Thailand Visa is a 5-year multi-entry visa allowing up to 180 days per entry (extendable another 180 inside the country). It suits remote employees, freelancers with foreign income, and 'soft-power' categories (Muay Thai, cooking courses, medical treatment). The key requirement is proof of funds (equivalent to 500,000 THB) plus evidence of remote work or a course booking. Apply from a Thai embassy or e-visa outside Thailand.
Education & LTR
An education (ED) visa via a language or Muay Thai school lets you extend inside the country for the course length — but it's for studying, not working, and attendance is checked. The LTR (Long-Term Resident) is a 10-year visa for high earners: passive income from ~USD 80k/year or a high salary at a global company, with tax perks and the right to work. Frequent visa-runs as a strategy no longer work — immigration counts entries.
FAQ
How long can I stay on the DTV?
180 days per entry, extendable by another 180 inside Thailand; the visa itself lasts 5 years with unlimited entries.
Can I work remotely on a tourist stamp?
Working for foreign clients online is a grey area not currently enforced against tourists, but for anything long-term the DTV is the clean route.
Do I need an agent?
Many people self-file the DTV via e-visa. Agents mainly save time on ED visas and unusual cases.
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