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Head to head

Mexico vs Thailand: the digital nomad visas compared

Verified data Last verified June 10, 2026

The short version

  • Mexico grants a longer initial stay (12 months vs 6), and it is renewable.
  • Only Mexico offers a direct path to permanent residence on this permit.
Side-by-side comparison of the Mexico RT and the Thailand DTV.
Criteria Mexico RT Thailand DTV
Minimum income / month €3,955 No fixed threshold
Income basis Mixed (salary, freelance or savings) Savings accepted
Initial duration 1 year (better) 6 months
Renewable Yes Yes
Maximum total stay 4 years 5 years
Path to permanent residence Yes (better) No
Path to citizenship Via permanent residence No
Family inclusion Yes Yes
Working for local clients Limited Not allowed
Tax treatment Standard resident taxation Standard resident taxation
Health insurance Not required Not required
Insurance duration required — —
Application fee ≈ €48.50 (better) ≈ €350
Where to apply Embassy / consulate, In country Online, Embassy / consulate
Processing time 0.2–2 weeks 4 weeks

Green values mark the objectively better number in that row.

Full guide

Mexico RT →

Requirements, application steps, insurance and sources.

Full guide

Thailand DTV →

Requirements, application steps, insurance and sources.

Sources