Southeast Asian nations push for digital nomad visas, Thailand to implement ETA

BANGKOK, THAILAND — In a bid to boost their economies and attract global talent, several Southeast Asian countries are rolling out new visa programs tailored for digital nomads. 

Thailand, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka are leading this initiative, offering long-stay visas to remote workers who can contribute their skills and spending power to local economies.

Destination Thailand Visa to attract digital nomads

Thailand has introduced the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), which allows digital nomads to stay in the country for up to 180 days and extend for another 180 days. 

Foreign Affairs Minister Maris Sangiampongsa expressed enthusiasm for the program, stating, “It will help facilitate foreign people who would like to stay for a long time in Thailand and also work long-distance.”

The DTV aims to attract “global talents” who can bring unique skills to Thailand’s economy. 

Minister Sangiampongsa highlighted the potential benefits, saying, “The program is expected to generate income for local people as these foreign people can spend their money in local areas where they live and work at the same time for between six months to one year in Thailand.”

Thailand to launch electronic travel authorization system

At the same time, the country is introducing an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system for visa-exempt visitors to enhance border security while providing a more convenient and hassle-free immigration process.

Set to launch by the end of 2024, the ETA will be mandatory for citizens of 93 visa-exempt countries. Travelers from countries such as the U.S., China, India, Japan, and the Philippines will need to apply for the ETA online before arriving in Thailand. 

Upon successful application, visitors will receive a QR code to present at immigration, allowing them to use automated gates. The ETA will be valid for 60 days, with the option to extend for an additional 30 days.

Minister Sangiampongsa explained that the ETA is “a way of enhancing the screening process of incoming visitors while improving security and travel convenience.”

Regional competition and economic impact

Indonesia has also joined the race, offering a visa that allows digital nomads to stay for up to a year. Meanwhile, Sri Lanka is considering a similar program to help rebuild its economy following the 2022 financial crisis.

The Philippines is also exploring the potential for a dedicated digital nomad visa. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has expressed support for the idea, which aims to streamline entry and exit procedures and tap into the expertise and spending power of global talent.

As the demand for remote work options continues to grow, these countries are positioning themselves as ideal destinations, with attractive climates, affordable living costs, and new visa programs tailored to digital nomads.

The economic impact of digital nomads is significant. A survey by A Brother Abroad estimated that there were roughly 35 million digital nomads worldwide in 2022, with their economic value totaling $787 billion. One forecast sees their ranks growing to around 60 million by 2030.