We have suspended work with the DTV visa for several practical reasons. Despite its formally simple entry requirements, in practice this visa is becoming increasingly unpredictable.
Let’s break down how it differs from the LTR visa and why the choice is obvious in most cases.
Why we do not work with the DTV visa
1. Unpredictable application requirements
In practice, applicants for the DTV visa are often asked to provide significantly more documents than listed in the official requirements.
2. Border control risks
Even with a valid visa, additional checks are possible:
- you may pass without any questions
- or you may be detained for several hours for document and financial verification
This creates instability that is difficult to manage.
Alternative — LTR (Work from Thailand Professionals)
The LTR visa issued by the Thailand Board of Investment requires a higher qualification level from applicants, but in return offers significantly greater stability and benefits.
Requirements: DTV vs LTR
1. Funds in bank account
- DTV: 500,000 THB in an account for at least 3 months
- LTR: not required
2. Income
- DTV: proof of income for 6 months
- LTR:
- at least 80,000 USD per year
- or 40,000 USD per year with a Master’s degree
3. Employer
- DTV: no requirements
- LTR: company with at least 50 million USD turnover over the last 3 years
4. Insurance / deposit
- DTV: not required
- LTR:
- health insurance of at least 50,000 USD
- or a 100,000 USD deposit (12 months)
Conditions and benefits
Visa validity
- DTV: 5 years
- LTR: 10 years
Continuous stay in Thailand
- DTV: up to 180 days per entry
- LTR: unlimited stay within visa validity
Taxes
- DTV: income is subject to personal income tax if transferred to Thailand
- LTR: exemption from personal income tax on foreign-sourced income
Right to work
- DTV: not allowed
- LTR: eligibility for a 5-year work permit
Family
- DTV: each family member must maintain 500,000 THB in an account
- LTR: insurance or deposit requirements starting from 20,000 USD
Bank account
- DTV: not available
- LTR: available
Conclusion
DTV is a compromise option with a low entry threshold but a high level of uncertainty.
LTR is a structured and stable visa for those who:
- work for a foreign company
- earn a high income
- plan to live in Thailand long-term
Over the past months, we have processed dozens of LTR applications.
The approval rate is 100%.
Author: Aleksandra Agapitova.
All rights reserved.
Copying or use of this material without written permission from the owner is prohibited.