Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)

What a DTV allows on each entry, and how to apply from abroad, step by step.

Last checked 25 September 2026 By Louis Ross, DTV holder in Chiang Mai 5 sources

This guide is generated from the same sourced rule data as the MyThailand app, last checked 25 September 2026. Each point shows its source. Points marked Unverified have no primary source yet, so check them with your immigration office.

Key facts

Apply for a Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) through the Thai e-Visa system, from outside Thailand

Who this is for

  • This applies if you're planning to come to Thailand on a DTV: Workcation (digital nomad, remote worker, foreign talent or freelancer), a Thai soft-power activity (like Muay Thai, culinary training or medical treatment), or as a dependant of a DTV holder. It's multiple-entry and valid for 5 years.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  • Since 31 Aug 2026, you need proof of permanent residence in the country where you apply, plus a criminal record clearance certificate. What counts as “permanent residence” varies by embassy.

    Source: Thaiger: Thailand's new DTV rule creates uncertainty (Secondary source), checked 25 September 2026

  • You get 180 days per entry, extendable once by another 180 days.

    Source: Thaiger and Siam Legal (Corroborated), checked 25 September 2026

When

  • This is for you if you're planning a move, targeting a DTV, and don't already have the visa. If you already hold it, skip this guide. Go straight to pre-arrival and “I've arrived” instead.

    Unverified No primary source yet, checked 25 September 2026

  • Your bank statements need to cover the last 3 months, with at least 500,000 THB.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

Ways to do it

  • Online only, at thaievisa.go.th. Uploads must be JPG, JPEG or PDF, max 3 MB each.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

Steps

  1. Choose your category

    Workcation, Soft Power or Dependant.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  2. Check where you can apply

    You must hold proof of permanent residence in the country of application. Applying from inside Thailand is reported to be flagged.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  3. Gather the documents

    Bio page scan, e-Visa photo, proof of permanent residence, 3 months of bank statements, criminal record certificate, plus category-specific documents.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  4. Check your passport validity

    Under 6 months' validity may result in rejection.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  5. Create an account and submit onlineonline

    Pay the fee online. Fees are non-refundable in any circumstance. The embassy may request an interview or more documents.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  6. Wait for the decision

    Processing time varies by embassy. 3–7 days at faster posts, 4–6 weeks at slower ones. Save the approved visa once it arrives by email.

    Source: Thaiger: Thailand digital nomad visa guide (Secondary source), checked 25 September 2026

  7. Before arrival, submit the TDAC

    Within 72 hours of arrival, and arrange a TM30 at your accommodation.

    Unverified No primary source yet, checked 25 September 2026

  8. On arrival, log your entry

    Log the entry date and stamp. The app switches to in-Thailand mode.

    Unverified No primary source yet, checked 25 September 2026

Documents

  • Passport biodata page (scan)

    Biodata page scan.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  • e-Visa photograph (digital)

    Taken within the last 6 months.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  • Proof of permanent residence in the country of application

    In the country of application.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  • Last 3 months of bank statements

    Last 3 months, 500,000 THB minimum, or sponsorship letter(s).

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  • Criminal record clearance certificate

    From your nationality or application country.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  • Foreign employment or freelance proof If applicable

    Workcation category.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  • Soft Power confirmation or appointment letter If applicable

    Soft Power category.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  • The DTV of the main holder If applicable

    Dependant category.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  • Marriage, birth or adoption certificate (DTV dependants) If applicable

    Dependant category.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

Fees

  • DTV visa: Varies by embassy. Check your embassy's e-Visa page. Example figures only: about 10,000 THB base; Washington DC about US$400; London £300; Singapore S$500; Tokyo ¥52,000.

    Source: Thaiger: Thailand digital nomad visa guide (example figures) (Secondary source), checked 25 September 2026

  • Refund if rejected: No fee

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

Common problems

  • No acceptable proof of permanent residence in the country of application.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  • Missing the criminal record certificate.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  • Funds not held for the full 3 months, or a sudden large deposit.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  • Passport valid for less than 6 months.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  • Files over 3 MB or in the wrong format.

    Source: Thai e-Visa site (Official), checked 25 September 2026

  • A Soft Power letter from an ineligible provider, e.g. a Thai language school.

    Unverified No primary source yet, checked 23 September 2026

  • Applying from inside Thailand.

    Unverified No primary source yet, checked 23 September 2026

Sources

Independent guide, not the Thai government, not legal advice. Your passport stamp is the final word. Check with Thai Immigration. How we check our sources.

  • 90-day report

    When your 90-day report is due, the ways to file it, and what to bring.

  • Extending your stay

    Extending a visa exempt stay or a DTV entry: steps, fees and documents.

  • Re-entry permit

    Keeping your permission to stay when you leave Thailand and come back.

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