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What are the best options for applying for a remote work visa in Thailand, and do I need to provide a tax return?

Jan 10, 2026
4 months ago
Ahmet **************
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hello,

I did some research but not able find correct answers. I have few questions.

I have a remote work agreement and can show bank statements up to 12 months and required balance is already in the account.

1- Which one is better, applying directly on remote works or soft power?

2- If applying for remote works is showing tax return evidence is mandatory?

3- If applying with soft power is easier, Is there any courses that you can recommend for soft power than i can register at least for 1 year?

4- Malaysia, Vietnam, Indonesia as my three options to go and apply at there, which one do you recommend for easier process?

Thank you in advance to all for kind and valuable information.
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The conversation discusses the best application route for a remote work visa in Thailand, weighing options between applying through a workation route or a soft power route. Users suggest that applying directly for remote work is generally considered a stronger option, while providing tax return evidence may not be mandatory but can be requested by immigration. There's also a discussion on choosing between Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia for ease of application, with most respondents favoring Vietnam and Indonesia over Malaysia as they are deemed easier for DTV approval.
DTV VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
Noah ***********
I think applying under remote work is stronger option.
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Khun ******
There's no difference between a soft power or workation DTV. You just save having to pay money for any courses but workation can be more complicated.
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John **********
You need to apply for a DTV using a specific route depending on your intentions. If you will work remotely from Thailand then you must apply using the workation route as that is the only one that allows you to legally work remotely from Thailand
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Andi ***********
1. Depends on your reason for the DTV.

For me, Workcation is best as I have a remote job.

2. No

3. What SP are you interested in, cooking, Muay Thai, Thai culture, medical etc?

4.Vietnam and Indonesia are way easier than Malaysia. Malaysia (KL) is the most difficult for DTV approval.
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Kool *******
Remote work is the best. You could be asked for your most recent income tax returns, as immigration wants everything, including you, to be legal.
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Kool *******
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