Ask question

What are the disadvantages of the Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) in Thailand?

Digital Nomad Visa DTV Thailand visa expat living visa restrictions banking immigration travel

Jan 7, 2025

2 days ago

Melissa ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

I’m aware of the Pros, but what are some on the Cons people have experienced with the DTV?

3,685

views

5

likes

113

all likes

49

replies

0

images

17

users

TLDR : Answer Summary

While many expats view the Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) positively, several cons have been highlighted by users. Major drawbacks include the inability to work legally on this visa, a non-refundable application fee of 400 USD if declined, and restrictions on banking services — with some banks requiring a work permit to open an account. Furthermore, the DTV is limited to a duration of only 5 years. Additionally, some individuals have reported issues with re-entry documentation and proof requirements, which could complicate travel plans.

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.

Andrew *******

The banking system views the dtv the same as a 60-day tourist visa, and will not open an account for dtv without a work permit/agent in most cases.

Like

Reply

Colin ********

Good visa for my situation I come for 6 months every year to escape UK winter no border runs no extensions just 1 90 day report

Like

Reply

Chris **********

Con - it's only 5 years. Can't speak for the rest of Thailand just yet, but Chiang Mai is amazing and I could see myself here far longer than 5 years.

Like

Reply

Jamie *************

I would say the only downside is that once you’ve agreed to this type of Visa, you cannot easily take Work inside the kingdom. But that is all part of being a digital nomad, I suppose.

Like

Reply

Wannikea *********

Extension requirements in country.

Like

Reply

Greg ********

It is a very good DTV and if comparing to METV, Visa Runs or ED for those working online and wanting longer term stays it is way ahead. If comparing against an O for retirement or Spouse there could be a further discussion but then it is down to a personal situation and not blanket cover. All in all for those who the visa is genuinely aimed at it is an excellent visa and any cons are vastly outweighed by the pros

Like

Reply

Aaron *******

400 USD fee is not refundable if you are not approved.

Like

Reply

Wesley ********

Con compared to what?

It’s probably the best tourist visa you can get.

Cons are, it’s not a non-Imm visa

Like

Reply

Bob **********

You can’t open a bank account and people getting pulled aside and questioned on re entry ask for proofs

Like

Reply

Tommy ********

it’s a long term tourist visa. Not work permit. Normal for tourists who stay longer than usual to get pulled at immigration

Like

Reply

Martino *******

yes but this "glorified tourist visa" allow you extended stay, if you respect the rules of DTV i don't see why they should be pulled...

Like

Reply

Tommy ********

@Martino ******

it’s just normal. Immigration want to know why you’re staying so long if you’re a digital nomad. Technically digital nomads travel to different places regularly, not just in one place…

Like

Reply

Reply to

Tommy ********

Reply

Wannikea *********

both statements practically false

Like

Reply

Bob **********

@Wannikea ********

search and see what’s been happening

Like

Reply

Wannikea *********

I recall maybe 3 instances being mentioned, 3 out of 11,000. Questioned is normal, grilled is unusual, but not unusual in light of someones stay history. The visa is not a magic spell warding off scrutiny.

Like

Reply

Reply to

Wannikea *********

Reply

Dennis ************

@Wannikea ********

i have been questioned on every re-entry

Like

Reply

Nickel *******

@Dennis ***********

what are they asking you mate and what are your responses? Just curious as i'll be hopping in and out eventually

Like

Reply

Dennis ************

what are you doing here? How you earn money? You allready marry your gf? Are you planning to marry your gf? Can you speak Thai to me?

Like

Reply

Martino *******

@Dennis ***********

what are the 'right' answers? 🤣

Like

Reply

Thomas ********

@Dennis ***********

They would have no knowledge of a GF simply by having a DTV. Your story isn’t adding up.

Like

Reply

Dennis ************

@Thomas *******

it's noted in their system bcs that was my answer in the past on the question 'why are you in Thailand'

Like

Reply

Thomas ********

@Dennis ***********

Yeah, so you did it to yourself.

Like

Reply

Aaron *******

@Dennis ***********

If you are questioned on every re-entry. You must be setting off a red flag, for some reason. I've been coming for 12 years, may have been asked 3 or 4 questions total out of 20+ trips.

Like

Reply

Reply to

Aaron *******

Reply

Ray *****

where are they getting asked for proof?

TBF they ask questions on every visa. I've been on non O for years and have been asked at the border although not at the airport

Like

Reply

James *******

Proof of what, do you know?

Like

Reply

Bob **********

they wanted proof of accommodation and an exit date and questions about what are you doing here

Like

Reply

Tom ***********

FWIW I got my DTV approved in August and have since been in/out the country four times. Not once have I been asked for any such information.

Like

Reply

Reply to

Tom ***********

Reply

Andi ***********

Many say they can't open a bank account with it or get a DL. An agent can easily sort out a bank account though. I do not see any negatives with it as I know exactly what it is and the limitations of it.

Like

Reply

Jon **********

@Andi **********

I thought it was that you can’t get a full 5 year DL?

A tourist on 30 day waiver is able to get a 2 year temporary license, I don’t see why a DTV holder couldn’t 🤷‍♂️

Like

Reply

Jon **********

It’s typical Thai bureaucracy: a year long non imm visa can get a 5 year license, a 5 year DTV visa can’t….. 🤯

Like

Reply

Andi ***********

Sense is often way down the ladder of decision making in a lot of govts.

Like

Reply

Reply to

Andi ***********

Reply

Andi ***********

I think someone recently posted that it is possible to get a temp DL as a DTV holder.

Like

Reply

Reply to

Andi ***********

Reply

Rusty ******

I am on DTV and have both Thai DL and BA. Use a Visa agent and you won't have nay issues.

Like

Reply

Nickel *******

@Andi **********

being able to open a bank acvount would be a good idea. I mean, the Thai govt is trying to encourage foreigners to come spend $$ in their country. Surely, facilitating that with local bank accounts, bank cards etc supports their cause 🤷 you'd think

Like

Reply

Greg ********

it is individual bank policy regarding account opening unless the BoT (Bank of Thailand) has issued guidelines. There are two issue in play 1) the reporting of accounts now Thailand has signed up to CRS may mean more work for banks without much gain 2) the crackdown on money laundering and scams. There has been a lot of publicity around this and the use of "Mule" accounts.

Like

Reply

Andi ***********

I agree, it makes sense to allow DTVers to easily open accounts especially as they boost the economy. A senior immigration official said that decision depends on the banking governing body not immigration.

Like

Reply

Reply to

Andi ***********

Reply

Melissa ********

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Andi **********

I already have both of those so that’s not an issue for me. But it sure will be for others who don’t, bummer. Thanks for the feedback.

Like

Reply

Andi ***********

@Melissa *******

Yes, a bummer for many who overestimated the power of the DTV in terms of gaining access to bank accounts, DLs etc.

Like

Reply

Reply to

Andi ***********

Reply

Nickel *******

@Andi **********

how is your airport experience going in and out of country? I just converted my DL car and moto but used agent.

Like

Reply

Tiko ******

can u recommend an agent? Would also like to convert my DL

Tnx

Like

Reply

Darcy ************

&

@Andi **********

I have been advised by reputable (real person 555) agent in Phuket that they can open a Bank account with Bangkok Bank and have my Australian Drivers licence converted. I am hoping she can do both car and Motorcycle for me. Bangkok Bank will absolutely open a bank account for DTV holder on a walk in basis in both Krabi and Aonang, BUT.... They ask for a THB30K life insurance policy to open the approval gate. The agent in Phuket has advised she can do it with a THB7K accident insurance policy

Like

Reply

Zaw ******

@Darcy ***********

that is truth. Bank advised me to get insurance 28K TBH for one yrs

Like

Reply

Lee ***********

Can you share the agent please

🙏🏼

Like

Reply

Darcy ************

@Lee **********

check your inbox mate

Like

Reply

Andi ***********

@Darcy ***********

39k is waaaasy too much. 7k is more of the norm even less in Pattaya.

Like

Reply

Darcy ************

@Andi **********

agree 1000%, that's why I stopped and looked for an agent.

Like

Reply

Roberto *******

@Darcy ***********

if you could please provide me with you agent, that would be amazing, thanks!

Like

Reply

Andi ***********

@Darcy ***********

Ok..wise move!

Like

Reply

Reply to

Andi ***********

Reply

Andi ***********

My arrival, showed my DTV, the IO said "welcome, I will give you a 6 month stamp" and then spent 1 min asking about Manchester and its' football teams. Departed via an electronic gate which makes such a difference. Very fast, no lines. So very easy process entering and leaving. No hassle from airline with one way ticket also into Bangkok.

Like

Reply

Reply to

Andi ***********

Reply

What are the pros and cons of the DTV visa in Thailand?

72 comments

18 days ago

What do I need to know about the Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) in Thailand?

273 comments

2 months ago

Will the DTV visa application process become easier in the future?

33 comments

2 months ago

What are the challenges and experiences of finding accommodation and banking while on a DTV in Thailand?

82 comments

2 months ago

What are the pros and cons of a DTV versus a marriage visa for expats planning to live in Thailand?

9 comments

2 months ago

Is the DTV Visa a better alternative to the retirement visa for long-term stays in Thailand?

54 comments

3 months ago

Is the DTV a better long-term visa option compared to the retirement visa in Thailand?

66 comments

3 months ago

What are the experiences and processes for obtaining the Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) in Thailand?

71 comments

3 months ago

What Will Happen to the DTV in Thailand After Five Years?

59 comments

4 months ago

Can I work remotely in Thailand with a visa that doesn't allow any type of work?

19 comments

4 months ago

What are the concerns about the new DTV visa changes in Thailand?

3 comments

4 months ago

What are the actual requirements and tips for obtaining the Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) in Thailand?

1 comments

4 months ago

What are the community's thoughts on the future of the Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) in Thailand?

128 comments

4 months ago

Is the DTV visa a better option than the Non-O retirement visa for expats in Thailand?

110 comments

5 months ago

What was the process for obtaining a DTV visa online in Thailand, and what important tips should be noted?

26 comments

5 months ago

What is the process and requirements for obtaining a DTV visa in Thailand?

75 comments

5 months ago

What are the misconceptions about the new Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) in Thailand?

145 comments

5 months ago

What are the key considerations and requirements for obtaining and maintaining a Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) in Thailand?

11 comments

6 months ago

What can I expect regarding the entry stamp for the new Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) in Thailand?

174 comments

6 months ago

What are the recent updates on the Digital Work Visa (DTV) in Thailand, and what are the application requirements?

82 comments

6 months ago

What are the current costs and details related to the Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) for Thailand?

117 comments

6 months ago

What are the document requirements for the DTV visa in Thailand?

24 comments

6 months ago

What are the latest updates on the Thai DTV visa application process and its requirements?

193 comments

6 months ago

What are the requirements and details for the Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) in Thailand?

29 comments

6 months ago

Data protection policy Terms and conditions Disclaimer Privacy policy Refund policy

The asq:thailand community, consisting of multiple Q/A groups with over 100,000 members, powers this platform. It is not an official government resource. Our members actively contribute to this resource, and while we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its complete reliability. Assistance to travelers is provided as a community service.