In a recent study we identified 12 factors for digital nomads to consider when looking for a location to settle. A quick comparison to Thailand immediately shows why that country is becoming so popular.
First is the visa situation – it must be relatively quick, easy and cost effective. Second their living depends on the internet, so they need reliable and efficient internet.
Further items are more discretionary. Climate is a high priority for many seeking sunshine. The standard of living must be good and its cost affordable. Local infrastructure – electricity, water, public transport – must be reliable and affordable.
The tempo of life should be suitable and not too frantic and there must be plenty of activities to keep them entertained. The culture must be accessible and friendly, the language not too big a barrier and the food offer choices they enjoy.
The last two prerequisites are a central location and a good airport, so they can fly out to travel and visit friends and those friends can come to see them. Plus, ideally, they would like a local expatriate community for friendship, support and to exchange suggestions on any issues.
In terms of the Thailand Elite-Visa, costs start at 600,000 THB for 5 years, which is between USD 2,000 and 3,000 per year at the time of writing, an extremely cost-effective option.
The processing usually only takes only about 6 weeks from start to finish, so it is fast. The Thai Elite-Visa also has a host of privileges, so see below for more details.
The average temperature in Bangkok, according to Bangkok.climatemps.com is between 28°C and 32°C (80°F and 89°F) through the year.
The standard of living in Thailand is excellent for expatriates and the cost in general is about one third of a similar standard in the USA or Western Europe (Livingcosts.com). Rent is about a quarter. So, the average nomad can enjoy a substantially more luxurious life for a lot less money.
The infrastructure is excellent in Bangkok and Wi-Fi reliable (crucial for nomads), with several suppliers to keep prices down.
Thailand is famous for its relaxed atmosphere; hence stress levels are fairly low. Snow sports are definitely out, but everything else you can imagine is available.
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Thai culture is highly tolerant and whilst the language is difficult, Thais all learn English at school, so there is always some around to help. In the main areas staff in restaurants and stores speak English.
Most people like Thai food, however, Bangkok has literally thousands of foreign cuisine restaurants and there are many to try whatever your taste.
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Geographically it is highly central with nearly 20 countries within 4 hours by air and the airports are major international and domestic major hubs, with hundreds of flights daily from which to select.
Finally, whatever your nationality there is a large expatriate community already in place so you will have people to talk to and from whom to get advice.
It is a long-term residency fee-based visa with a number of benefits that you can obtain for periods of 5 years to 20 years, as determined by the package you pick. It can be renewed every 5 years and allows multiple entries.
There are a large number of packages offered. Some are listed below, but you should talk to experts about which one best meets your needs. It could save you a lot of money and effort.
Please review the main Thailand Elite-Visa packages and prices.
As mentioned, there are many other options, with different advantages and privileges. Some of those benefits can include:
As noted, 6 or 7 weeks is usually all the time it takes to process and the visa can then be collected on landing at Bangkok airport, from any overseas Thai consulate or from Immigration in Bangkok.
We did mention getting expert advice earlier. Thaielite Express has been authorized as a General Sales and Services Agent by the government since 2013. If you are considering a Thai Elite-Visa they can advise on what option will suit you best and explain the details.
You can also find out more at Thai Elite Visa costs, as well as by visiting their website . Or you can send them questions by email. You can even apply with them online by clicking here! They are very professional and reply almost always within 24 hours.
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