What are my options for obtaining a visa in Thailand as an unemployed person without going through an agency?

Question

I want to do the visa process myself without an agency my only problem I have is that they ask for Employment contract or employment certificate in their country or professional portfolio showcasing digital nomad, remote worker, foreign talent or freelancer status. I have all the money I would need in a savings account but I’m unemployed and have no income coming in at the moment and I don’t want want to do the soft powers. Does anyone have any recommendations?

Ask Thailand · Answer

The user is seeking advice on how to navigate the visa application process in Thailand as an unemployed person without agency assistance. They have sufficient savings but do not meet the requirements for employment contracts or certificates needed for certain visa types. Community members suggest various options, including establishing a personal company to issue the necessary documents, exploring soft power activities, or considering alternative visas like a multiple entry tourist visa (METV). The insights shared emphasize that pursuing soft power may be essential if they want to reside in Thailand for an extended period. Several commenters also note the importance of having a plan for sustaining oneself financially while in the country.

GrayWal******** · Answer

You are unemployed and don’t want to do soft power… Then, my friend you should just stay home or use the 30 day visa exemption

GentleTu******** · Answer

You don’t actually have ‘to do’ the soft power activity for attendance purposes. Nobody seems to be saying this.

Could/should/would is entirely different from using proof of enrollment to satisfy the soft power activity requirement.

Yes, you should go if remotely interested (you’re paying for the course either way) but if you can’t make it or don’t make it that’s between you and the school, not immigration.

Rob ********* · Answer

What's a metv?

پیر ****** · Answer

I hopelessly sent them my Universal credit income and surprisingly they approved. I'm still in shock.

GrayStraw********* · Answer

I was in the same situation, unemployed with no income and in this case, soft power is the only option. You can do the process by yourself, there’s no issue with that. I’ve done it on my own and got approved in a week. And choosing soft power activity doesn’t mean you can’t work as a remote worker as well. You just can’t work for Thai clients/companies, but you can do your activity and work remotely on the side.

Bob ********** · Answer

Yes wait until you get a job

Henrik ***** · Answer

If you can’t fullfill all the visa requirements, then this is not the visa for you.

David ******* · Answer

“I plan to eventually start trading” is too speculative. Start trading now and establish a track record and trading income then consider applying.

John ********** · Answer

If you don't work and don't want to do soft power you'll need to find another visa that suits your requirements. Maybe a standard tourist visa or a multiple entry tourist visa

Greg ****** · Answer

The DTV isn't for you then.

Frank-Steven *********** · Answer

You could set up your own company that could then issue the requested contract / confirmation of freedom to work remotely for you. But if embassies suspect, they might additionally ask for proof of payslips / revenue.

So most realistically: go the soft power path.

Did you ask yourself what you are planning on living off in Thailand. A mere 500k THB in savings would not last forever.

What are my options for obtaining a visa in Thailand as an unemployed person without going through an agency?

Activity

Related

Resources