Answered2 years ago

Can I switch from a SMART T Visa to a DTV while in Thailand?

DTV Visa SMART T Visa Visa Change Remote Work in Thailand Visa Applications from Abroad Thai Immigration Rules

Anonymous *************

asked Jan 14, 2025

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I am current on SMART T Visa (with a Thai company) and thinking to change to DTV as i want to leave the Thai company. I do have a remote job for the past 2 years already as well.  

As i read, to apply DTV i need to apply from outside Thailand but i am already working in Thailand. Anyone has any advice/ Done something like this before. Any help is much appreciated, Thank you

Answer summary

The user is currently on a SMART T Visa in Thailand and is considering switching to a Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) due to leaving their Thai company and having a remote job. However, the DTV application must be made from outside Thailand, as it is prohibited to apply for a visa while being in the country. Comments provide advice on the steps needed to make this transition, including the necessity to cancel the current SMART T Visa and the potential to prepare for long-term options such as permanent residency.

12 repliesnewest first

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Alex *********

you need to cancel your smart-t, i've got 21 days to get non-b after that; if you don't cancel smart visa, you can't apply for another visa formally

2 years ago

Wesley ********

If you’re already working, what’s your long term plan for staying in Thailand? Start prepping and apply for PR if you have any long term aspirations

2 years ago

Helen ********

You need to leave Thailand to apply. When you log into the evisa system it has a pop up stating you can't apply for a visa while in Thailand. Pick a nearby embassy to apply, search the website of where you choose and posts to see requirements.

2 years ago

Anonymous *************

@Helen *******

right, but do i cancel my SMART T 1st before that ? if i dont, can i still apply DTV (and cancel smart T after getting DTV ) .. cause i am scared if i cancel SMART T 1st and for whatever reason DTV dont go through , i am visa-less

2 years ago

Helen ********

Anonymous participant was the Smart visa issued by a special area like BOI, or just regular immigration? If through BOI I'd ask them. You could also try asking the embassy you'll apply at. I don't know enough about the Smart visa myself, is it multi entry? It does seem that people with an existing METV have to wait till it's expired. People on work visas and I think an Ed visa have been able to cancel it after returning so not sure if it works like that. Maybe ask in the Thai Visa Advice Q&A. There may be someone there with experience.

2 years ago

Garry ******

Why would you change?

2 years ago

Anonymous ******************

@Garry *****

from what I have seen you need to have been in the remote job for a period of time to provide pay slips, worth checking though. Could maybe do through soft power and work online

2 years ago

Anonymous *************

Anonymous participant 453 yup.. I have been having the remote job for 2 years and simultaneously was at thai company job too. Just wanna know the process to switch

2 years ago

Anonymous *************

@Garry *****

I am thinking to leave the thai company and I got a remote job offer already

2 years ago

Garry ******

Anonymous participant that makes sense, i was so confused why would you want to change a perfectly fine scenario.

2 years ago

Ronnie ***************

You can't work in Thailand on the DTV visa, only work remotely for a non Thai company.

2 years ago

Anonymous *************