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Head to head

Netherlands vs Thailand: the digital nomad visas compared

Partially verified Last verified June 10, 2026 Reviewed by Henry van de Vorming

The short version

  • Netherlands grants a longer initial stay (24 months vs 6), and it is renewable.
  • Only Netherlands offers a direct path to permanent residence on this permit.
Side-by-side comparison of the Netherlands DAFT and the Thailand DTV.
Criteria Netherlands DAFT Thailand DTV
Minimum income / month No fixed threshold No fixed threshold
Income basis Savings accepted Savings accepted
Initial duration 2 years (better) 6 months
Renewable Yes Yes
Maximum total stay No fixed limit 5 years
Path to permanent residence Yes (better) No
Path to citizenship Via permanent residence No
Family inclusion Yes Yes
Working for local clients Allowed Not allowed
Tax treatment Standard resident taxation (Possible 30% ruling (if eligible)) Standard resident taxation
Health insurance Required (explicit) Not required
Insurance duration required Full visa period —
Application fee ≈ €423 ≈ €350 (better)
Where to apply In country Online, Embassy / consulate
Processing time — 4 weeks

Green values mark the objectively better number in that row.

Full guide

Netherlands DAFT →

Requirements, application steps, insurance and sources.

Full guide

Thailand DTV →

Requirements, application steps, insurance and sources.

Don't forget insurance

Both programs have their own health-insurance rules — we match plans against each one's published requirement, with the evidence shown.

Insurance for Netherlands → Insurance for Thailand →

Sources