What visa options should I consider for remote work and dental treatment in Thailand?

Question

Need some DTV advice, I apologize beforehand if this may be a long post.
My details:
1. I’m looking to become a remote worker (video editor) but I don’t have any freelance work coming in currently. I have an online portfolio which shows my work but that’s about it right now. My last paying job was one that I had in the US (not remote) last year before I got laid off.
2. I have enough in savings for the minimum 500K Baht.
3. I’m interested in Muay Thai but haven’t trained anywhere yet.
4. I also have a dental implant I need to get done.
5. I’m currently in Thailand but will be going to Vietnam in a few months for a few months.
6. I will be turning 50 next April.
So my main questions are as follows:

Which category should I apply with? Can I apply for several i.e Remote worker and need a dental implant?

Should I apply from Vietnam or when I return to the US? Does online or embassy applying make it easier?

Should I just get the retirement O-A Visa when I turn 50 next year over the DTV?

Thanks in advance for all advice!

Ask Thailand · Answer

The user seeks advice on visa options for living in Thailand as a remote worker and managing dental treatment. Key considerations include whether to apply for a DTV visa, given their intention to work online, or to wait until turning 50 to apply for a retirement O-A visa. Comments suggest the DTV visa for its multi-entry benefits and advice against applying from the USA, recommending applications from Vietnam instead. The choice between categories like remote work or health reasons, such as dental needs, is also discussed, with insights into processing requirements and potential challenges.

Thuy ****** · Answer

DTV visa expires in 5 years with stay up to 180 days per visit. Retirement visa expires in 1 year with stay up to 1 year. DTV is less paperwork over 5 years IMO if you leave/re-enter  every 180 days (non-extension  route). DTV extension route will require same paperwork process as original DTV application (less desirable route)

Kevin ******** · Answer

Go the simple route. Do retirement visa. It’s an understood system that is simple to do yourself. And you can do in country.

Paul ******* · Answer

If you can qualify for the LTR, absolutely go for that one rather than the DTV. It's much better in every respect. You can essentially stay 5 years before being reviewed for another 5 years. Reporting is only once every 12 months. You get a special immigration lane at the airport. It's reportedly easier to apply for bank accounts too and has several other perks.

Somari ********* · Answer

Don't apply in USA.  I applied both in New York and Los Angeles and both places jerked me around and denied me. Wait and apply in Vietnam for a DTV dental appointment.  I need a crown so in December I'll be doing that.  I'll be in Bangkok in two days. Yep if you are self employed getting paid thru cashapp they don't understand that and just ignore you.

Derry ********* · Answer

Muay thai is the easier option to prove. Just find a gym with experience in providing the right documents

Luit ***************** · Answer

I think it is also important to know for yourself what your plans are for the coming years.

If you want to live in Thailand and not want to leave the country at least every year at the moment the extension end, the non-o might be the better option.

If you plan not to live in Thailand but will be there only for longer periods and don't want to be at the right moment in Thailand to get the 1 year extension and buy re-entry permits, the DTV might be the better option.

And also you can use DTV for the next years to get prepared for the non-o.

Andi *********** · Answer

Go for the DTV as you looking to work online and it is multi entry. Can not work officially online with a retirement visa although many do on the DL.

Werner ************ · Answer

Do you qualify for an LTR? It doesn’t appear to be the case

Wannikea ********* · Answer

Pick one category, medical route looks legitimate according to your age. Check posts for successful approvals in your chosen category at the embassy you're considering to get an idea of what they find acceptable. Get a letterhead document from the clinic outlining your diagnoses, treatment plan and follow-up with appointments set up.

Matthew ******* · Answer

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