Thailand has officially opened applications for its long-anticipated Destination Thailand Visa, with Irish digital nomads now eligible to apply as of January 23, 2026. The visa, designed to attract remote workers and long-stay visitors, offers multiple-entry privileges and extended periods of residence compared with traditional tourist visas.

The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is valid for up to five years and allows holders to stay for up to 180 days per entry, with the option to extend each stay by an additional 180 days.

Applicants must demonstrate remote employment, freelance work, or participation in approved activities such as cultural courses and Thai-related events and have maintained savings of at least THB 500,000 (approximately €13,700) over the preceding three months.

Family members may accompany the principal applicant, though schooling and healthcare remain the responsibility of the visa holder.

The DTV differs from Thailand’s earlier Smart Visa programme by targeting mid-career professionals, freelancers and digital nomads with lower earnings thresholds, providing a more accessible option for long-term stays without formal employment in Thailand.

Irish citizens continue to enjoy a standard 30-day visa-free entry for tourism, but switching to the DTV from within the country is not permitted; applications must be filed before travel.

The launch of the visa is part of Thailand’s broader strategy to enhance its appeal as a destination for remote workers and long-stay travellers, positioning the country competitively alongside global digital-nomad visa offerings.

Current processing times are typically ten to fifteen working days, though early applicants have reported approvals in as little as a week.