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What are the benefits of the LTR Visa compared to the DTV visa for remote work in Thailand?
LTR VisaDTV VisaRemote WorkVisa Application ProcessesTax ExemptionThailand ImmigrationVisa AgentsDocument Requirements
Jan 3, 2026
4 months ago
Jamie *********
ORIGINAL POSTERMy employer has agreed for me to work remotely from Bangkok. My research shows I could apply for DTV or the LTR Visa. Obviously the application process for LTR is more detailed however fairly similar documentary requirements for both ..it seems you also don’t need to have the money in your bank for the LTR Visa instead evidence of income. Any advice would be appreciated 😃🙏🏻
TLDR : Answer Summary
The discussion revolves around choosing between the LTR Visa and the DTV Visa for working remotely in Thailand. The LTR Visa is highly recommended for its advantages, including easier application processes, income evidence instead of bank balances, and tax exemptions. While the DTV is primarily a tourist visa with limited benefits, participants suggest considering a visa agent for assistance, though applying independently is also feasible. Overall, the LTR Visa is favored for its long-term benefits and simplified residency requirements.
DTV VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
- Take the basic DTV Qualification Test to see if you're eligible for the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV).
- For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
- Explore recent discussions by using the DTV Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
- Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.
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Bob **********
Thanks for all the good advice in this post
Petri ************
LTR makes you tax exempt for foreign income and includes numerous other benefits. If you reside in Thailand for over 180 days a year, you become a tax resident. LTR is one of the best visas I have ever seen.
Ian **********
I looked at both visas and the advantages for the LTR visa is that you can stay a year without any reporting, but you still have to renew at 5 years even though it is advertised as a 10 year visa.
Todd *********
@Ian *********
most valuable thing about LTR is tax free on income outside of Thailand. No 90 day reporting. If you travel out of country once per year, you never need to do any reporting. No visits to immigration. Fasttrack entry at all Thai airports. Easy to open bank accounts. If you qualify for LTR it’s an absolute no brainer
Reply to
Todd *********
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Wannikea *********
Another benefit of LTR is you don't have to worry about taxation in Thailand.
John ******
@Wannikea ********
that is not true. It is only one of four ltrs that gives you the advantage of taxfreeBrandon ************
@John *****
Wrong. There's only ONE type that is taxed, and that's the Highly Skilled Professional type, with a flat tax rate for Thai income. The other 3 types are 100% tax free for foreign sourced income.Reply to
Brandon ************
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Brook ********
First, the DTV is a tourist visa, not a non immigrant visa. You have to leave the country regularly and you can’t even currently open a bank account on a DTV.
LTR is probably the visa you want.
Applying yourself is not difficult and will give you an introduction to the bureaucracy that is Thailand. If you can’t handle it things like drivers licenses, bank accounts and buying a car will make you cry.
If your time is too valuable, consider hiring a reputable visa agent to assist you with the application. Much less expensive than a law firm.
Good luck.
LTR is probably the visa you want.
Applying yourself is not difficult and will give you an introduction to the bureaucracy that is Thailand. If you can’t handle it things like drivers licenses, bank accounts and buying a car will make you cry.
If your time is too valuable, consider hiring a reputable visa agent to assist you with the application. Much less expensive than a law firm.
Good luck.
Jamie *********
ORIGINAL POSTER@Brook *******
is there a reputable agent you could suggest?Jim *******
@Jamie ********
Thai Visa Center is a reputable agency that I would recommend. Bangkok, Bang Na. Been to their (presentable office and English speaking staff, even 2 ATM machines on their premises).They cater for customers accross Thailand.
Todd *********
@Jamie ********
if you qualify for LTR financially, it’s ridiculously easy. Do the online application. Show the income. Get the visa. Not really any role for an agent. LTR is the FAR superior visaReply to
Todd *********
Reply
Jo **********
I got the LTR visa working remotely in Thailand it was relatively easy to do the paperwork. Not sure how much an agency can help because you need to get all the documents yourself. Since I have done it successfully I would be happy to answer questions
Frank *********
@Jo *********
is the income threshold net or before taxes?Jo **********
@Frank ********
before taxes 80kReply to
Jo **********
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Barry ***************
One Stop Visa in Hua Hin I’d suggest. Bankok Lawyers are Expensive IMO. I’ve researched this for last 17 months.
Jamie *********
ORIGINAL POSTERI’ve seen companies like Siam Legal advertising their services to reduce the stress from the process. Had anyone used an agency like this? Wondering if it’s truly worth the fee that they charge 🤔
Frozan *******
@Jamie ********
we have the LTR visa and love it. My husband filled all the paperwork himself and said it was much easier (straightforward) than the guardian visas we used to get in the past. Good luck!Barry ***************
@Jamie ********
One Stop Visa Hua Hin 52,000 Non O retirement visa. Stress free. Includes bank account. Bankok 75,000 Bhat I’ve done my homework after 17 months here in Hua Hin.
Barry Rock
Jeff *******
Barry Stephen RockChrist how much? You mean for the LTR right?
Todd *********
@Jeff ******
he means for a 3 month non-O plus 1 year extension. 52k. But 50k is price for 10 year LTR if you qualify
Brandon ************
@Jeff ******
No, he does not mean for the LTR. He's posting useless information.Reply to
Brandon ************
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Brandon ************
LTR is the best visa that Thailand currently offers. If you think you might qualify, go for it. You're out nothing by trying, as you don't have to pay anything until you're already approved and want to get the visa.
Reply to
Brandon ************
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