Thailand extends the Visa and added a new 5 year Digital Nomad Visa!

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I've been to Thailand five times already, and I’m seriously considering moving there for at least five years. With the new 5-year visa coming into effect, this plan seems even more appealing.

On May 28, 2024, Thailand introduced a new law that extends the visa-free stay for tourists. Previously, visitors could stay for 30 days without a visa, but now this period has been extended to 60 days. Additionally, if you find yourself needing more time, you can extend this stay by another 30 days while you are in Thailand. This new regulation will take effect on June 1, 2024.

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What else is new?

• There will be a new 5-year visa available, which allows for stays of up to 180 days at a time. You can also extend this visa for another 180 days. This is particularly beneficial for digital nomads and anyone who wishes to stay in Thailand for extended periods without the hassle of frequent visa runs.

• If you are a student in Thailand, you no longer have to leave the country immediately after completing your studies. The new rule allows you to stay for an additional year after finishing your coursework. This is great for students who want to explore job opportunities or simply enjoy more time in Thailand after graduation.

• For those aged 50 and above who are applying for a long-term visa, the health insurance requirements have been relaxed significantly. Previously, you needed health insurance coverage of 3 million Baht (around 75,000 €), but now the required amount has been reduced to just 440,000 Baht (approximately 11,000 €). This change will be in effect from September to December, making it much more affordable for older applicants to secure a long-term stay.

• Another significant update is the expansion of e-visa application services. Starting in September 2024, there will be 94 locations available for e-visa applications at Thai consulates and embassies worldwide, up from the current 47 locations. This expansion will make it easier for people from more countries to apply for their visas online, streamlining the process and reducing the need for physical visits to consulates.

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These changes make Thailand even more attractive for long-term stays, whether you’re a frequent visitor like me, a student, a digital nomad, or someone looking to retire in a beautiful and vibrant country.

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