Digital Nomad Visa Comparison: Sri Lanka vs. Thailand
A comparison of remote work visas for Sri Lanka and Thailand.
Sri Lanka vs Thailand: Comparing Digital Nomad Visa Requirements
Are you considering working remotely and traveling in Asia? Sri Lanka and Thailand are two popular destinations with new digital nomad visa programs. Keep reading to learn about their respective requirements and restrictions.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka, an island nation known for its tea plantations, beaches, and biodiversity, has introduced a digital nomad visa program for foreigners. Here are the details:
| Visa Name | Digital Nomad Visa |
|---|---|
| Visa Duration | 1 year with an option to renew |
| Visa Cost | Proposed: US$600 with the condition not disclosed yet |
| Employment Restrictions | Local employment is not allowed. The applicant must be working/ rendering services to a foreign entity |
| Income Proof | Bank statements to prove income |
| Security Clearance | A special security clearance should be obtained by the individuals from Sri Lankan embassies in their respective countries |
| Tax Exemption | Proposed: Tax exemption for earnings with the condition not disclosed yet |
Thailand
Thailand, the land of smiles, is another popular digital nomad destination in Southeast Asia with its tropical beaches, temples, and food scene. Here are the requirements for its long term resident visa program:
| Visa Name | Long Term Resident Visa Program |
|---|---|
| Visa Duration | Visa will be granted to stay in Thailand for the first time for five (5) years which can be extended for five (5) more years if qualifications are met |
| Visa Cost | Government Fee: THB 50,000 per person for 10-year visa with Multiple entry, Government Fee: THB 3,000 per year to maintain Digital Work Permit, US$80,000 Annually |
| Employment Restrictions | No work limitations, however, the individual needs to be aware of the Permanent Establishment issue for the activity carried on in Thailand for the benefit of a foreign entity |
| Income Requirement | Annual income of the applicant should not be less than US$80,000 in the past two years. If the income of the applicant is between US$40,000 to US$80,000 in the past two years, he is required to have at least a Master's Degree, receive Series A funding, or own intellectual property. |
| Experience & Employer Requirements | The applicant is required to have at least relevant working experience of five years over the past 10 years. His current employer should either be a public company (listed on a stock exchange anywhere), or a private company with at least three years of operations with revenue for the last three years should be at least US$150 Million. |
| Health Insurance | The applicant should have health insurance with coverage of at least US$50,000 or Social Security Benefits supporting treatment in Thailand or a bank deposit of no less than US$ 100,000 |
| Background Check | A letter of verification issued within the last 10 years by the country of Residence/ Nationality indicating a clear criminal record might be required |
| Tax Exemption | Under this Visa, tax on Overseas Income is Exempted |
Choosing between Sri Lanka and Thailand
Choosing between Sri Lanka and Thailand for a digital nomad destination depends on various factors such as budget, visa requirements and restrictions, lifestyle, cultural experience, and work style. Sri Lanka's visa program offers a cheaper visa fee, though the details of income requirements and tax exemption are yet to be disclosed. On the other hand, Thailand's visa program requires a higher threshold of income and work experience, but offers more flexibility on employment and visa duration. Both countries offer a unique blend of nature, culture, and cuisine, making them great destinations for digital nomads.