Announced on May 28 during a crucial Cabinet meeting, the plan outlines strategic measures for 2024-2025 to attract a diverse array of visitors and expatriates by simplifying and enhancing visa regulations.
What Is the Purpose of the New Visa Measures?
The purpose of the new visa measures is to boost the Thai economy through higher tourism levels. The Kingdom is committed to increase the number of tourists entering the country by easing the standards and increasing the length of stay of certain visas.
According to government spokesman Chai Wacharonke, the goal is to increase the amount of foreign capital flowing into the country via the larger number of foreigners who will spend more time in the country and ensure long-term economic stability.
What Is the New Digital Nomad Visa That Was Approved?
The new digital nomad visa that was approved, known as the “Destination Thailand Visa,” or DTV, will be valid for 5 years. It grants permission to live and work in Thailand for up to 180 days per year for foreigners seeking longer stays for remote work or leisure. The reason for the 180 limit is that this allows the worker to avoid Thai personal income tax which must be paid when residing in The Kingdom for longer than that period of time.
The new rules target digital nomads and remote workers as well as those interested in sport training like Muay Thai, medical treatments, or seminars such as those on Thai cuisine. Some of the other details of the DTV long-term visa are as follows:
- Targeting those who are 20 years old and over and can prove they have 500,000 baht in savings
- Work permit applications are not permitted but holders can earn untaxed foreign income while in Thailand
- Visa application fee of 10,000 baht ($270)
Who Can Apply for DTV?
Skilled talent, digital nomads, freelancers, and participants in cultural, educational, or medical activities.
What Changes to Thai Visa Exemptions Were Made?
The changes made to Thai visa exemptions (TR-60) include adding 36 countries to the exemption list and giving those countries 60 days in The Kingdom rather than 30. The total number of countries on that visa-free entry list is now 93 and those that were added or made permanent members include:
- Albania
- Cambodia
- China
- India
- Jamaica
- Kazakhstan
- Laos
- Mexico
- Panama
In addition to the visa exemption changes, 12 new countries were added to the list of those eligible for visas-on-arrival. Such countries are eligible for a 15-day stay assuming they clear visa procedures with the immigration bureau on arrival. After the changes, those countries include:
- Armenia
- Costa Rica
- El Salvador
- Fiji
- Kyrgyzstan
- Malta
- Saudi Arabia
- Taiwan
- Venezuela
What Restrictions on Visa Holders Have Been Eased?
Restrictions on specific visa holders have been eased that either make it easier to obtain the visa or lengthen the period of stay. The two main visas that the recent Thai government changes apply to are the retirement visa and the student visa.
1. Retirement Visa
The main change impacting the retirement visa is that medical insurance requirements will decrease. In the past, those applying for this visa needed to prove that they had 3 million baht ($82,000) in coverage. The May 28th changes will decrease the total number to 440,000 baht ($12,000), making it much more accessible to many retirees.
These changes will remain effective from September to December, according to government spokesman Mr. Chai Wacharonke.
2. Student Visa
The main change to the student visa is that the length of stay for post-secondary students will be extended by a full year past their graduation date. Previously, international students had to leave the country upon graduation. The government hopes that students will search for employment and fill qualified positions in Thailand post-graduation.
Future Plans for Visa Service Improvements in Thailand
Future plans for visa service improvements in Thailand will include developing an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system for visa exempt countries and advanced technology for visa screening. The aim of introducing such technologies is to streamline screening and data integration for the Immigration Bureau.
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