Beautiful but underrated country begging Brits to move there

Following in the footsteps of digital nomad hotspots like Spain, Indonesia, Greece and Dubai, another country is now offering visas to stay and work, meaning it is no longer just a top holiday destination, but a new home for some Brits.

Remote workers will now be able to stay in the country for up to five years on what has been nicknamed a “digital nomad visa”.

The “Destination Thailand Visa” (DTV), which launched on June 1 now allows foreigners to stay and work there for extended periods without having to worry about immigration or tax.

It is believed to be one of the most generous offers for digital nomads worldwide, according to TimeOut. 

Similar schemes have recently been introduced in Malaysia and Indonesia, highlighting just how many holiday spots are rethinking their appeal by embracing hybrid work models.

It is also hoped that the effort will boost visitor numbers and revive the Thai economy. 

Those with the multiple-entry visa are given the right to stay for 180 days a year, with an option to extend for another 180 days, for up to five years, all for the cost of £213.75. 

On top of the initial fee, workers will be required to leave and re-enter the country every 180 days and pay an additional £212.20 each time.

Full details on how to apply are yet to be revealed, but so far, some information on the requirements to apply have been provided. You must: be at least 20 years of age, have enough money to pay for the visa, prove you have at least £10,687 in your bank account and provide proof of employment with a registered company. Applicants cannot work for a company based in Thailand. 

The DTV is unusual in that it is open not only to freelance and remote workers, but anyone pursuing cultural activities in Thailand, from taking cooking courses to traditional Thai boxing – muay Thai.

Previously, digital nomads could only stay in Thailand on tourist visas for a maximum of 60 days. The only other alternative was the notoriously difficult to get Long Term Residence Visa, which came with hefty financial requirements. It is hoped, however, that the new visa will support the government’s efforts to increase tourism.

Other countries that offer digital nomad visas or similar include Spain and Portugal for up to five years, Croatia and Dubai for one year, Italy for one year with the possibility to extend and Malaysia, allowing foreigners to stay for up to 12 months with the option to renew for a 24-month stay in total.