What is the best visa route for a business owner applying from Portugal to Thailand?

Oh bussiness dtv, I didn't read it all just freefly...

But for your own business you go get dtv business visa to work in Thailand remotely to your countries tax complence. 💚

Based on your situation, both the business owner and freelancer routes could be suitable. The best choice depends on which accurately reflects your working arrangement and is supported by the strongest documentation.

Business owner: Your US LLC registration and proof of ownership can establish your position as the company owner. You should also provide evidence of active business operations, your role in the company, and the nature of your remote work.

Freelancer: Since you're already registered as a freelancer in Portugal and have monthly invoices with matching bank transfers, this may be the more straightforward route to document. However, as your only client is your own LLC, I would clearly explain that relationship and provide evidence of the actual services you perform.

Employee: This route would make sense if you have a genuine employment relationship with your LLC, supported by an employment contract, payroll records, or other appropriate evidence. I wouldn't recommend creating a self-signed employment letter solely for the visa application.

Whichever route you choose, make sure your documents clearly establish your professional activities, how your work is performed remotely, and the source of your income. All supporting evidence should be consistent and verifiable.

One important point regarding Lisbon: Since the DTV application requirements changed on 31 August 2026, proof of permanent residence and a criminal record clearance certificate are required. Before applying, I would confirm directly with the Thai Embassy in Lisbon whether your Portuguese residence documentation is accepted and what specific supporting documents they require.

Do you have permanent residence rights in Portugal or are you on a temporary residence permit? If the latter I'm not sure they will accept that and you may need to travel back to your passport country in order to apply. You don't reveal which country that is, Thai consulates could care less about EU passports, it's the issuing nation that's important.

And it's probably easier to apply as an employee, even of your own company.