@Jeremy ****

And that's only the beginning... There's a major crackdown on scammers, illegal businesses, illegal workers, and individuals with warrants who are exploiting exemptions and other types of visas. Unfortunately, the DTV is also attracting that kind of fraud since it's the easiest visa to obtain. I like the DTV initial idea (Digital Nomads) but it's just too easy to get it...

Yes, more and more embassies are requiring it.

1. To ensure you can support yourself in Thailand for five years (rather than just proving 500K; which isn't enough for 5 years).

2. There is currently a major crackdown on scammers, illegal businesses, and other abuses, many of which exploit tourist exemptions and, eventually, other visa types. As a result, expect stricter rules for obtaining and maintaining a visa, as well as for services like opening a bank account.