As a sought-after location for expatriates eager to experience life abroad on a budget, Thailand offers numerous advantages. However, there has been a significant hurdle: securing long-term residency in Thailand has historically been challenging. This article was initially published in 2017, and since then, the regulations have evolved at least 20 times. As we approach 2025, the situation has become more straightforward thanks to the introduction of a new 5-year multiple-entry visa tailored for working travelers.
As I revisit this at the end of 2024, we are witnessing articles from individuals who have applied for and obtained the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) from Thailand. This visa permits a stay of six months at a time, with a validity of five years, marking a substantial enhancement over previous options.
The Thai visa challenge has loomed large. While it hasn’t deterred digital nomads—Chiang Mai remains a favorite destination for location-independent professionals—it has often resulted in people staying for just a few months rather than several years. Now, securing a long-term apartment rental without the need to make border runs every month or two has become a reality.
## The Destination Thailand Visa for Digital Nomads
Prior to the recent visa amendments in Thailand, most individuals needed to either be wealthy retirees with substantial funds in a Thai bank account or regularly perform visa runs to a border. The new regulations now warmly welcome remote workers, allowing for a Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) that provides multi-entry for a span of five years.
You are only required to exit the country once every 180 days, which is a significant improvement for those who are not retirees. Reports indicate that applications are being processed in under a week, with the annual income requirement set at a modest 500,000 baht, equivalent to approximately US$14,000. The country is requesting proof of sufficient funds for living there, not 5X or 10X what is necessary as seen in other nations, including Mexico.
Initially, I had my doubts when I first encountered the Thai Government’s announcements regarding the Destination Thailand Visa. As the editor of Nomadico, I’m familiar with digital nomad visa announcements that appear appealing but are largely impractical. It seemed too favorable to be real, yet it actually is real.
We are now receiving feedback from individuals who have successfully navigated the process, including a SafetyWing worker who [secured it in 10 days](https://www.thenewworkday.com/p/how-to-get-thai-dtv-destination-thailand-visa) and another applicant based in the UK [here](https://www.facebook.com/groups/thailanddigitalnomads/posts/1277246947017424/). Finding reliable information on Google has become increasingly difficult, but successful applicants can be found [on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xtoYeyR6HY4) ([here’s another example](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gSC28XtZLEw)), along with more stories shared in the previously mentioned expat Facebook group.
Refer to [a comprehensive guide here](https://www.expatden.com/thailand/destination-thailand-visa-dtv/) on the Expat Den website. Then check the [official web page here](https://www.thaievisa.go.th/visa/dtv-visa) in English to gather your documents or initiate your application.
Coco Lanta Hotel where we stayed at $53 per night, including breakfast.
Be aware that you will need to pay 10,000 baht upfront, which is around $300, along with immigration fees throughout the process. Still, given the [affordable travel expenses in Thailand](https://www.cheapestdestinationsblog.com/2023/01/11/trip-to-thailand-cost/) and the reasonable cost of food and accommodations once settled, you will recoup this investment within the first month of living in Thailand.
Just bear in mind that they will require some employment and income documentation, so prepare all necessary information in advance if you are self-employed. You will also need a permanent address to provide, which should match where your tax and financial documents are sent. Ensure you have a high-quality photo taken akin to a passport photo.
## Other Visas to Live in Thailand
For retirees, the process has always been simpler to remain in Thailand without frequent visa runs, whether through a long-term retirement visa or a six-month one applied for beforehand in your home country. One individual I spoke with for the latest edition of my book [*A Better Life for Half the Price*](https://cheaplivingabroad.com) received a six-month visa upon application in the USA, with no income statements required.
“You simply visit your local Thai embassy in