Working from Thailand: Which visas are suitable for remote work

Thailand’s warm climate, friendly culture, developed infrastructure, and affordable cost of living make it an attractive destination for relocation and remote work.

In the 2020s, Thailand introduced several long-term visas aimed at foreigners with income from abroad: from a straightforward option for freelancers to premium programs for employees of international companies. Below, we look at two key options: DTV (Digital Traveler Visa) and LTR (Long-Term Resident — Work-from-Thailand Professionals).

Digital nomad visa DTV

DTV is designed for remote workers with foreign-sourced income. It was officially launched in 2024 and is intended for those who can prove financial stability and an income source outside Thailand.

Main conditions

• Deposit: from USD 15,000.

• Requirement: earn income from foreign sources and work remotely as a freelancer or an employee of an overseas company.

• Length of stay: the program is based on a five-year visa period.

• Entry/stay conditions: each entry allows up to 360 consecutive days of stay; after that, you must leave and re-enter the country.

• Family: spouse and children receive the status of Dependents of DTV Visa Holder.

Who it suits

• Freelancers, consultants, and owners of remote businesses.

• Those who are not tied to one employer in Thailand and receive regular income from abroad.

• People planning seasonal moves within the region, for example Phuket — Bangkok — Samui.

Pros and cons

• Pros: long stay, the option to bring family, and a simplified model for those already working remotely.

• Cons: the need to prove foreign income and provide a deposit, plus the requirement to leave after 360 days.

LTR visa for international company employees

The LTR visa is aimed at qualified professionals working for large international companies. This program was launched in 2022 with support from Thailand’s Board of Investment and, in some cases, includes benefits for long-term residence and tax status.

Main conditions

• Income: from USD 80,000 per year.

• Experience: at least 5 years of professional experience.

• Employer: a foreign company with stable financial performance.

• Length of stay: 5 years.

• Renewal: possible extension for another 5 years if conditions are met.

• Family: spouse and children receive LTR-dependent status.

Who it suits

• Senior specialists, managers, and candidates with confirmed experience and high income.

• Those who want to settle in the country long term, with the right to bring family and work remotely for a major foreign employer.

• People who value stability and are prepared to meet strict requirements for income and experience.

Pros and cons

• Pros: a 5-year visa with the possibility of extension, plus family benefits.

• Cons: a high income threshold and the requirement for significant work experience.

In addition, the LTR visa is available to investors and property owners in Thailand. The value of assets must be at least USD 500,000, or from USD 250,000 for people over 50. You can explore investment options in the Sales section.

Which one to choose: DTV or LTR?

Choose DTV if your income comes from abroad, you are a freelancer or a remote employee without ties to a large foreign company, and you value flexibility and a relatively accessible entry threshold.

Choose LTR if you earn significantly more, have solid experience and official employment with a large international company, and want maximum legal and visa stability for 5 years.

Practical steps before moving

• Check the income verification requirements: bank statements, contracts, tax returns.

• Prepare documents for the deposit and family application.

• Review the current entry and health insurance requirements on the official websites of Thailand’s embassies and immigration authorities.

• Calculate the tax implications: consult an international tax advisor about taxation of foreign-sourced income while living in Thailand.

• Book accommodation in the area that suits you best — Get Your Phuket specialists will take your preferences and family composition into account and help you choose from different price ranges.

Frequently asked questions

• Can I work for Thai clients on a DTV/LTR visa?
  The main idea is to work for foreign companies / foreign income sources. Working for Thai employers requires other permits and arrangements under labor law.

• Do I have to pay taxes in Thailand?
  Your tax situation depends on your tax residency and the nature of your income; please confirm with a specialist.

• How long can I stay in Thailand continuously?
  Under DTV conditions, one entry allows a stay of up to 360 consecutive days; LTR typically allows up to 5 years.

Let's sum it up

More recommendations and news in the free GetYourPhuket App

Download the App in one click

^ Click the icon below to download ^