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Can I apply for a Digital Nomad Visa in Thailand as a contractor instead of an employee?

Digital Nomad Visa Thailand Visa Application Contractor vs Employee Remote Work Freelancer Work Permits

Feb 27, 2025

a month ago

Rickard *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

Applying for DTV as employee vs contractor.

I've been offered a contract, but technically I'm being hired as a contractor. I've got supporting documents, such as a letter stating I have permission to work remotely from Thailand.

However, I've attached an excerpt from the contract. I'm pretty sure any embassy is going to make the interpretation that I am a freelancer, and will want to see business registration, invoices, portfolio, etc. I have none of those things.

I'm planning to apply at HCMC, but at this point I'm considering whether there would even be a point to applying, as the contract presents me more as a freelancer and I can't provide those supporting documents.

It seems like the only way to qualify would be a more straightforward employment contract, but the employer says that would not be possible since they don't have a branch in Thailand.

Apologies for the somewhat vague question. I'd be thankful for any advice.

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user is seeking advice on applying for a Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) in Thailand as a contractor, concerned that their contract's wording may position them as a freelancer without the necessary business documentation. They have permission to work remotely but lack supporting documents like business registration, invoices, or a portfolio. Comments suggest presenting past invoices and a résumé, clarify the significance of the company's lack of Thai presence, and recommend applying from their home country for better document acceptance.

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Henrik *****

Better to apply in your homecountry, where they will have a better understanding of the documents backing the application, and how the documents are formated.

And you will not need to pay for hotel etc. in the unknown period until the DTV is approved.

a month ago

Wannikea *********

Actually the company not having a Thai presence is crucial to being acceptable. You could somehow align yourself as a remote worker.

a month ago

Dnatjugweme ************

Is it possible to write invoices without having registered as a business in Sweden? If it's the case, than just explain it in a cover letter. Attach recent invoices and highlight the corresponding transactions on your bank statement.

a month ago

Barry ******

You show some past invoices that you are billing that client.

For portfolio, a résumé may also work too.

a month ago

Sefton ********

A contractor IS a freelancer.

a month ago

Reply to

Sefton ********

Can a consultant working for an international organization apply for a DTV visa in Thailand without a business registration?

9 comments

2 months ago