Mark Friedman: The destination Thailand or DTV visa is generating a lot of inquiries and for good reason. It’s an affordable multiple entry long term stay visa available to anyone over the age of 20. Because it’s so popular we’re getting lots of questions from clients who are moving forward with applications and from prospective clients trying to understand if this is the right visa for them.
In this video, we’re going to answer the 14 most asked questions. So, let’s jump right in. You may be asking; do I qualify for a DTV visa? And the answer is you probably do if you’re over the age of 20 and can show that you have 500,000 Thai Baht or about $14,000 in available funds. You’ll need a legitimate reason, such as working remotely, immersing yourself in Thai culture, such as attending a cooking or Muay Thai school, or you’re receiving extended medical or wellness treatment.
Next question. Can I enter and leave Thailand as often as I like? The short answer is yes. This is a multiple entry visa valid for five years. So over that five-year period, you’ll have access to the kingdom. Next question. How much is the government fee for the DTV visa? It’s about 10,000 Thai baht or 275.
That’ll fluctuate with the exchange rate.. Now this can vary a bit by Royal Thai embassy or consulate. For instance, the Royal Thai embassy in the U.S. Is charging 400, a bit of a premium likely due to the higher staffing expense there. If I leave and reenter Thailand, does my 180 day stay period start over?
Yes, it does. The allowed stay period for the DTV visa is 180 days, and every time you leave and re-enter Thailand, your 180 day stay period starts over. Now, if I don’t want to leave Thailand after 180 days, can I extend my stay? Yes, you can extend your stay for another 180 days by going to any immigration office, filling out an extension form, and paying a small fee.
Next question. Can I open a Thai bank account with my DTV visa? And the answer is not at this time. So if you’re making Thailand home, it may be one reason to consider other visa options such as a non-retirement or Thailand privilege visa. How long does the application approval process take? Typically, Royal Thai embassies and consulates will tell you that the processing time for electronic application filings is about 15 working days.
We’ve seen some visa applications approved more quickly than that. And given that this is a new program, you need to be patient because it may take a bit longer. May I file my DTV application while I’m in Thailand? The answer to that is no, you’ll need to file outside of the country. And can e-file if your home country’s Royal Thai Embassy or consulate accepts this method of application.
Can I file a DTV application on my own?
Yes, you can. But if you’re unsure about the process or want some help, consulting an expert can always be helpful. I’m self-employed, so can I still work remotely from Thailand? The answer is yes. You’ll need to show the Thai government proof of your professional portfolio or client services. It also helps to include marketing materials such as your website or social media outreach, as well as client remittances.
Anything to point up the fact that you’re self-employed and you’re viably self-employed making some money in your efforts. Next question. Can I work or have customers in Thailand with a DTV visa? And the answer to that is no. To work in Thailand or generate revenues here, you must have a work permit that is sponsored by a Thai company.
Penalties for violations are quite severe, so if you see economic opportunities in the kingdom, please consult with someone who can help you through the work permit process. Do I have to pay taxes in Thailand? The answer to that is only if you stay for more than 180 days a year. If that’s the case, Thailand may consider you to be domiciled or a resident here for tax purposes, and you may have to pay tax on your foreign earnings.
Now this is kind of a complex issue. Lots of countries have what’s called double taxation agreements with Thailand, so you can get a credit for the taxes you pay here. We, we advise you to go seek the help of a qualified tax, uh, tax advisor. What happens if I stay here for more than 180 days without leaving the country or extending my stay with immigration?
This is commonly called an overstay, and for short overstays, you’ll pay a fine to immigration. However, longer or repeated overstays can result in more severe penalties, even criminal penalties, and can affect future visa applications. So please, please, please keep track of your time here. Next question.
Do DTV requirements vary by Royal Thai embassy or consulate? Yes, they do. Like many government agencies in Thailand, embassies are afforded discretion in what they require or charge for various visa programs. So, it’s important that you check with your Royal Thai embassy or consulate’s website to ensure that your application is complete.
Okay, well, we hope this helps. And at bottom, this is a terrific visa program offering folks under 50 an inexpensive long term stay opportunity. It may also be the solution for you if you’re thinking about Thailand as a more permanent home. but want to experience the kingdom before making that commitment.
If you’re interested in learning more about the DTV visa program and how to get started on your application, I’ve included a link below. You can always also reach out to us at hello@btisolutions.co if you found this helpful, please subscribe, like, and share, and thanks for watching.
