Thailand’s Cabinet has approved the launching of the new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), which targets digital nomads and remote workers- with the changes to visa and immigration rules expected to become effective by late June or early July, as confirmed by the government.
The new decision came following a proposal by the Department of Consular Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on May 28, 2024, VisaGuide.World reports.
The new visa allows long-term travelers as well as digital nomads and participants in specific cultural activities to stay in Thailand legally for up to 180 days per visit on a multiple-entry basis, within five years.
In addition, the five other main changes to visa and immigration rules of Thailand that are expected to become effective in the next two months are:
Extended Visa Exemptions
The visa exemption period for visitors and short-term business visitors will be extended to 60 days, up from the current 30 days, for citizens from 93 countries.
Expanded Visa on Arrival
Thailand’s government has also announced that the number of countries whose passport holders are eligible for Visa on Arrival (VOA) will increase to 31 from the current 19.
Digital Nomads & Remote Workers
In addition, the Cabinet also approved the decision to extend the digital nomad visa for self-employed remote workers to five years from 60 days currently, with each stay being limited to 180 days. The new decision is designed to attract self-employed and remote workers wishing to stay in Thailand for an extended period while working.
Postgraduate Students & Retirees
Thailand has also approved the decision to allow students to stay in Thailand for an additional year after graduation. In addition, the government has also significantly lowered the health insurance requirements for retirees.
Visa Policy Committee
In a bid to refine Thailand’s entry processes and enhance immigration efficiency, the country will also establish a new Visa Policy Committee and enhance immigration efficiency.
Thailand Expects to Welcome 40 Million Tourists by End of 2024
Previously, authorities in Thailand unfolded plans to attract a total of 40 million internationals by the end of this year, with an expected revenue of 3.5 trillion baht ($95.73 billion). The country saw 14.3 million tourists in the first five months of this year alone.
The new visa changes announced by authorities in this country are expected to significantly boost the tourism sector as well.
Based on the figures from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of Thailand, the country welcomed over 28 million visitors in 2023. The majority of visitors came from Malaysia (4.5 million), China (3.5 million), South Korea (1.7 million), India (1.6 million) and Russia (1.5 million).