‘It’s not very hard to get’: Everything you need to know to get Thailand’s digital nomad visa

30-year-old Carmelito Bauer has only ever spent one day of his life working in an office. 

Since becoming a digital nomad in 2020, he’s spent three years in Mexico and is now in Thailand, where he recently became one of the first recipients of the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV).

Launched in July, the long-awaited visa programme gives remote workers the chance to live in the Asian nation for up to five years. 

It has already sparked demand, with Google searches for “move to Thailand” soaring by 162 per cent in the UK following its announcement, according to holiday provider Travel Republic.

“Honestly, [the visa] is not very hard to get,” Carmelito tells Euronews Travel. Having initially looked into getting a visa linked to Muay Thai training, he believes Thailand’s process for education visas - a previously popular option for long stays - was “way more complicated”.

Here, he shares his story and top tips on how to get Thailand’s digital nomad visa.

Carmelito’s experience of getting Thailand’s digital nomad visa was quick, easy and affordable.

He returned to Frankfurt in his home country, Germany, to apply.

“I would probably recommend that,” he says. “Apparently some of the nearby countries [to Thailand] are more complicated in terms of what they want to see, how long you have to wait, and all that.”

Wherever you apply, the required documents include a copy of your passport, a clear photograph taken within the last six months and a document indicating your current location. 

You must also provide evidence of at least 500,000 THB (€13,800) in funds via a bank statement or sponsorship letter. Finally, you have to show an employment contract in your country of residence or a professional portfolio showing your remote worker or freelancer status.

Additional documents specific to the embassy or consulate where you apply may be required.

Applying from his home country, Germany, Carmelito used a copy of his government ID as the document proving his location. A utility bill or bank statement could also be used as proof of address. 

You cannot apply for the DTV from within Thailand, but how about if you plan to do so from a neighbouring country?

“I heard people were