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Answered9 months ago

Is operating a US-based business remotely while on a Retirement Visa in Thailand considered working?

Mike *******
asked Feb 8, 2026
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In the context of a Retirement Visa.

Is operating a US based business remotely considered working?
Answer summary
Operating a US-based business remotely from Thailand is generally considered as working, which can complicate one's eligibility for a Retirement Visa. While some argue that managing passive income, such as rental properties, might not fall under this definition, the consensus leans towards requiring the correct visa for work-related activities. Engaging a reputable visa agent is advised to navigate these regulations accurately.
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PurpleO********
PurpleO********
Best to discuss with a visa agent, rather than get hundred different answers on social media.
Nongnuch ********
Nongnuch ********
PurpleOtter5805 he got a clear and concise and correct reply from the moderator, who is an expert on visa-related questions. He does not need another opinion, and better not from any visa-agent who runs a profit-oriented business and accordingly wants to pull money out of his pocket. Your bad advice is leading him in the wrong direction
PurpleO********
PurpleO********
Nongnuch Kamdee I agree with you in part.

I do not recommend using a backstreet visa agent, but that should go without saying. A good respectable visa agent can give good advice. My advice is not bad.
David ******
David ******
To the point what if the business is passive income. For example rental properties could be considered a business and passive income. He is a business owner and didn't say worker.
John **********
John **********
@David *****
if he has rental properties but someone else manages the rentals for him without his input that would be passive income.
Mike *******
Mike *******
OP
David Earl you are correct Sir and curious to know if that makes a difference. Small company, 10 employees and 2 Managers who operate the business.
John **********
John **********
@Mike ******
you did ask about operating the business and if that's true then you should get the appropriate visa. If you own the business but have no input into operations then that is a different question
Inspirin*********
Inspirin*********
It’s not America
Nick **********
Nick **********
InspiringLion8038 It's not?

Wow, thanks for the update.
Graham ******
Graham ******
So get a DTV based on remote work
Bob **********
Bob **********
Yes
Stuart *********
Stuart *********
If you remote work within Thailand you need right to work within Thailand. Working is not retirement too
John **********
John **********
Yes of course it is. That's why there are specific visa options to allow that

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