Can I apply for a Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) in Thailand without tax returns if I'm self-employed?

Simply apply the soft power route. Fight EVO360 Thailand - Thepprasit Boxing Stadium has all the proper documents if your in the pattaya area. Sign up for 6 month Muay Thai or cooking class. Tax returns being asked for now for those who haven't had their money "seasoned" in an account for 6 months.

My first advice is that you should reconsider your choice of where to apply. There are two reasons why I suggest that:

- Both the embassy in Hanoi and the consulate in HCMC tend to ask remote workers and freelancers to submit tax returns.

- The embassy and consulate in Vietnam are closed from Jan 25 to Feb 2. You mention that you want the process to be as speedy as possible. Their processing time is 5 working days (not incl. day of submission). Even if you send your application on Monday next week, the earliest you could expect an approval would be Feb 4. If they ask for additional documentation it will take even longer.

If you still decide to apply in Vietnam you should supply other documents, that MAY prevent them from asking for tax returns. I believe they would ask for tax returns to make sure that:

1) your freelance work is legit and

2) you will be able to support yourself.

Make sure to add documents such as company registration, client contracts, invoices together with client payments, recent payslips or other proof of income etc.

You need to show that you earn money on a regular basis.

Having 500k in a bank account, can be considered as the "minimum financial requirement" for any DTV-application. Several embassies request to see payslips or proof of income on top of the 500k in the bank. That money is more seen as an "emergency fund" and the embassies/consulates want to make sure your freelance work brings you income (since you are prohibited to work for any Thai business).

You are worrying too much about the tax return. 1000s approved without one. There are legit reasons not to have a tax return such as yours. If you are asked for one, you explain your situation.