A Certificate of Residency may be obtained at the Chiang Mai Immigration Office next to the airport. Apply between 8 am and 12 pm Monday through Friday (excluding Thai holidays, which you definitely want to check for before you go).
⚠️ NOTE: there need to be at least 30 days left on your current visa to apply for the certificate of residency.
Documents Needed To Get The Certificate of Residency
You will need to bring the following documents to the Immigration office:
Copy of your rental contract/lease agreement from your landlord (If you’re staying for 2 or more months at The Social Club coliving & coworking, we can print this out for you, as well as making all the needed photocopies of your passport)
Photocopy of TM.30 form signed by your landlord. You can search TM.30 and download the form here. Alternatively, your landlord can just print a screenshot of the TM.30 registration confirmation.
A photocopy of your passport main page
A photocopy of your visa stamp in your passport
Two passport photos
Your actual passport to present as ID
If you do not have passport photos or need to photocopy your passport, you can do both at the Photo & Copy office located behind the main immigration building (as you’re facing the main building, the photo and copy office is to your left).
They take your picture there and issue six passport photos for 200 baht and make photocopies for 2 baht per page.
⚠️ NOTE: all photocopies that you submit with the application must be signed at the bottom by you.
Location at The Chiang Main Immigration Office
The desk to drop off your completed application is in the main building on the second floor. As you’re facing the building, go into the side door on the right-hand side of the main building and go up the stairs to the second floor. You will see a desk where people are standing in line. There are usually two lines, the right hand line is to drop off, the left hand line is to pick up rush applications.
Processing Fees
Currently, there are two application processing options:
Pay around 50 THB and they will mail your Certificate of Residence in about a month.
Pay 500 THB for rush processing and pick up your Certificate of Residence the next day.
Once you’ve dropped off your application and all the forms, you will be given a receipt. If you opted for rush, you will bring the receipt back to the same desk the following business day to pick up your Certificate of Residence. If you opted for normal processing, your certificate of residence will arrive via mail in about a month.
What is Coliving?
Essentially, coliving is an all-inclusive, cost effective and flexible rental option with a built-in community. Coliving is modern communal living that is characterized by large, shared community spaces with planned social events and social networking, and private living spaces made up of smaller, fully furnished, all-inclusive apartments.
Coliving spaces offer short-term lease or stay options, with everything included in one lower price, hotel-like perks, such as weekly cleaning, and turn-key amenities and utilities. Individuals rent their own apartment, shared room or even small home in coliving communities and then share common amenities such as kitchens, laundry facilities, communal and social areas, and the outdoor space.
Benefits of Coliving
Built in community and events
With coliving, the concept of communal living has been re-imagined by the millennial and Gen Z generations, who put more value on community and collaboration, yet are the most likely to report chronic loneliness (over 50%) and the least likely to interact socially with neighbors and co-workers or socialize in any form. According to a 2010 Brigham Young University study “loneliness has the same impact on mortality as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, making it even more dangerous than obesity.”
Coliving offers a built-in community and social events almost every night, including group, movie night, game nights, BBQ, classes for business or self-improvement, exercise activities and even volunteer work. If the constant presence of others feels overwhelming some days, you can always retreat into your private apartment to relax and recharge. A well thought out coliving space has a balance of socialization when you want it, and the privacy of a comfy apartment when you don’t feel like being around people.
To ensure you don’t burn out from the combination of being around people all the time and living in a smaller than average apartment, it is recommended that your private apartment or room is at least 250 Square Feet (23 SM) without a kitchen, or 300 SF if your coliving apartment includes a kitchen, and preferably has a balcony or large windows that open onto green space or a nice view to make the room feel larger.
Lower price than traditional renting
When faced with ever increasing rental prices, millennials and Gen Z are usually forced to live in inhumanely small apartments at astronomical prices. Coliving addresses the financial and cost of living crisis facing younger generations by offering affordability and flexibility with more shared amenities centered around community. Not only is monthly rent lower, but it is also all-inclusive with furnished apartments and all utilities and amenities included in one price. Instead of incurring $5,000 or more to furnish an apartment with a bed, couch, table, workstation, kitchen utensils, pots and pans, TV, WIFI router, etc., coliving comes with a fully furnished layout. In addition, weekly cleaning, room maintenance, and utilities are usually included.
Many coliving buildings have a green policy and charge electricity if it goes over a base amount to discourage excessive or constant air condition usage.
Coliving can have the added financial benefit of shared resources. These shared resources can allow for nicer perks than individual residents could afford on their own. One example that highlights the benefits of shared economy is how one large commercial high-end kitchen for 40 residents to share is more efficient than having 40 kitchens in 40 small apartments, which takes up personal space, promotes waste and costs more. This sharing economy results in lower prices for residents and can be extended to many areas of living, depending on the community and their preferences.
Coliving can be especially beneficial for single people or couples without a need to have all private amenities, digital nomads (working remotely while traveling) and single professionals of any age.
Flexibility and convenience
Coliving offers flexible and short-term lease arrangements, often weekly or monthly, which make them convenient for those unable or unwilling to commit to a long-term lease. With covid and the advent of working remotely, more and more people are choosing to work remotely, or to become digital nomads. Coworking gives remote workers the ability to live in different locations – even travel and live worldwide (digital nomad). The world is becoming smaller and smaller and more and more millennials, Gen Z and even many Gen X, value travel and living in new cities and countries, learning and experiencing new things, growing and expanding their world view more than settling down and staying in one place.
Coworking is included
A major benefit of coliving is the inclusion of coworking spaces, which are communal rooms designed and dedicated for residents to work in. Like a mix between a coffee shop and library, a well thought out coliving space should include outdoor and indoor space, quiet rooms with no talking as well as a less strict rooms for light talking as well as dedicated zoom or skype rooms for calls. You can spend hundreds of dollars a month renting a desk in a coworking space or visiting coffee shops, which can be noisy and hard to work from, but most coliving spaces include coworking spaces for their residents at no charge. As many have experienced with remote working during covid, it is hard to sit inside your apartment hunched over your keyboard on your bed or couch with distractions all around. It has also been shown that being around others who are focused on work provides a positive social pressure to stop procrastinating and get work done. Not only is coworking space more productive, but a clear separation of workspace and living space is beneficial for mental health.
Modern urban living can feel like living around millions of people but not knowing anyone and being lonely and isolated. If done right, a well-planned coliving space can feel like a giant space for your use and enjoyment, with your private apartment being just part of the areas you use every day. It will be your office, your gym, your social club, your restaurant, coffee shop and more; your neighborhood where everyone lives together and knows each other.
Potential Drawbacks of Coliving
It is important to research the rules and styles of the coliving community before moving in. Due to the coliving arrangement, there may be factors such as noise levels or guest policies that are different from traditional apartments. Most coliving buildings enforce a quiet time after 10 PM on weekdays.
Privacy
Coliving provides more shared common spaces and amenities in exchange for a lower price, flexibility and smaller personal space. This may not be ideal for those who want more privacy or do not wish to socialize much.
Getting along with others
Sharing common spaces with others means potential for conflict or misunderstanding. Individuals who cause problems or make others uncomfortable must be quickly identified and management's job is to resolve and settle the issues before they grow into conflict. Communicating openly and honestly is important, as well as clearly defined rules and boundaries to address potential situations
How To Open a Bank Account In Chiang Mai, Thailand - Step by Step Guide for Tourist Visa Holders
This article provides information based on our experience with setting up a bank account in Thailand. Be aware that legal regulations in Thailand frequently change. If you need assistance with setting up a bank account, please reach out to one of the relevant agencies rather than contacting us.
⚠️ Update (21/11/2023): Krungsri bank is now offering bank accounts to tourist visa holders. We recommend you to visit the branch in Maya Shopping Mall.
⚠️ Update (14/07/2023): The latest news is that the Bangkok Bank in Nimman opens accounts for tourist visa holders but you have to buy tourist visa insurance that costs 5000 THB (one time payment). In order to open an account, follow the steps below.
⚠️ Update (28/04/2023): There are rumors that the Bangkok Bank in Nimman stopped opening accounts for tourist visa holders.
Step by step guide to open a bank account in Chiang Mai, Thailand with just a tourist visa.
Certificate Of Residency
To open a bank account, you will need to get a Certificate of Residency from the Thai Immigration office. (Instructions can be found here)
Which Bank To Go To
Bangkok Bank Nimman He Min is the recommended branch to go to if you’re on a tourist visa. This branch specializes in foreign bank accounts and especially tourist visa holders’ bank accounts.
Other banks and branches may be able to as well, but many times they will turn you away, have you come back or not know the process and tell you the wrong information.
The Bangkok Bank Nimman He Min is open Monday through Friday, 10 am to 6pm (check for Thai holidays before you go!). It is best to get there before they open and queue up, as the wait times can be long in the afternoon. As you enter the bank, take a number from the machine and wait for your number to be called.
Copy of your rental contract/lease agreement from your landlord (If you’re staying at The Social Club coliving, we will provide this for you, as well as walk you through the process and answer any questions)
Driver’s license from your home country (to show your permanent address).
500 baht cash, which is currently the minimum deposit amount to open a bank account.
Which Debit Card To Choose When Opening a Bank Account
UnionPay Debit Cards are currently the cheapest, with an Entrance Fee of 100 baht/card + an Annual Fee of 300 baht. UnionPay cards can only be used at stores that accept UnionPay. Most 7-Eleven stores, for example, do not accept UnionPay cards.
Mastercard Debit Cards are more expensive, with an entrance fee of 100 baht/card + an annual fee of 599 baht, but are accepted in more places and may include other benefits, such as medical insurance.
Our recommendation: take a Mastercard Debit Card
Once you’ve opened your account, you will be able to use the bank app to scan and pay, pay online, withdraw money from an ATM without paying any fees and also apply for a long-stay visa.
Long Stays in Chiang Mai With Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) for Digital Nomads
In July 2024, Thailand rolled out a new visa called the “Destination Thailand Visa (DTV).” This visa is perfect for digital nomads, remote workers, and anyone planning to stay in Thailand for a long time. Plus, you can extend it for up to 5 years!
What's the Destination Thailand (DTV ) Visa?
The "Destination Thailand Visa" is a cool initiative to bring long-term visitors to Thailand, especially digital nomads, retirees, and remote worker foreigners plan for;
Long-Term Stay: Lets you stay longer than a regular tourist visa, often up to a year or more.
Multiple Entries: Allows you to come and go as you please, giving you flexibility.
Work Permits for Remote Work: Lets digital nomads legally work remotely while living in Thailand.
Simplified Application Process: Makes it easier for qualified folks to get the visa.
Health Insurance Requirement: Usually requires you to have health insurance to cover you during your stay.
Financial Requirements: Might need to show proof of enough funds or a stable income to support yourself.
This visa is part of Thailand's bigger plan to boost tourism and attract a variety of long-term visitors who help out the local economy.
Who can apply for a DTV Visa ?
Digital Nomads: Folks who can work from anywhere in the world. They usually need to show proof of employment or freelance work, showing they have a steady income.
Retirees: People over a certain age (often 50+) who can support themselves without working. They generally need to provide proof of retirement status and income.
Affluent Individuals and Investors: Wealthy people who can show they have significant financial assets or investments in Thailand. This might include entrepreneurs and business owners.
Skilled Professionals and Experts: Pros in certain industries or fields that Thailand wants to attract, like tech, education, or healthcare. They might need to prove their expertise and qualifications.
Long-Term Tourists: Those who want to stay in Thailand for a long time for leisure and tourism, with proof they have enough money to cover their stay.
How does the DTV Visa work? And how long can I stay in Thailand?
The Destination Thailand Visa lets you enter multiple times and it's valid for 5 years!
Once you have a DTV visa, Length of stay per entry is 180 days (6 months). When you're close to your stay expiring, you've got two options:
Extend your stay: Head to the immigration office to extend your stay for another 180 days. The extension fee is 1,900 THB. (Extendable once a year )
Leave and return: As a digital nomad or remote worker, this is a great chance to travel to another country. When you come back to Thailand, you get another 180 days.
How to get a DTV visa and what documents you need?
You can only apply for this type of Visa outside of Thailand, and the easiest way to do it is online through the Thai E-visaofficial website.
Document Requirements;
Passport page
Visa photo (taken within the last 6 months)
Document showing your current location or address registration
Financial proof, at least 500,000 THB, like bank statements or bank confirmations
For digital nomads, remote workers, and freelancers: employment contract, employment certificate, or professional portfolio
Health insurance (might be required)
Just a heads-up: Every application needs approval, and the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate-General might ask for an interview or more documents. Applying for a visa doesn't mean you'll definitely get one, and remember, visa fees aren't refundable.
What's the cost of the DTV visa?
The Destination Thailand Visa costs 10,000 THB.
Do I pay Thai taxes on foreign income with a DTV Visa?
It depends on your stay. If you're in Thailand for over 180 days a year, you're considered a tax resident and must pay taxes on foreign income, even with a Destination Thailand Visa. Due to 2024 tax updates, all foreign income of tax residents is taxed. However, a Double Tax Agreement with your home country might exempt you from double taxation.
Like we said earlier, the DTV is perfect for digital nomads, freelancers, and remote workers. So, if you're working remotely for a company abroad, or you're your own boss as a freelancer or influencer, this visa is just what you need.
Once you get your long-stay visa, go ahead and apply for a driving license and open a Thai bank account to make your life in Thailand easier and more enjoyable.
Check out the video below to get the lowdown on this visa and have fun watching:
9 Best Coworking Coffee Shops in Chiang Mai That Fit Every Digital Nomad Needs
Chiang Mai has everything you need for the perfect digital nomad lifestyle. Good vibes, local workshops, city events, delicious food options, and affordable living costs are just a few reasons why it's been a hotspot for remote workers for the past six years.
Check out our list of the top nine cafes in the city that serve great coffee and provide a comfortable place to work. Join the thriving community of digital nomads and explore all that Chiang Mai has to offer!
We chose these cafes based on their internet speed and comfortable work environment.
Located on a quiet street behind Wat Prasing temple, the White Building Cafe is a cozy and minimalistic Japanese-style cafe with white and wooden beige decor. They serve delicious baked goods, cakes, coffee, and drinks. The internet is stable and there are working areas on both the ground and second floors. Open from 8:00am to 5:00pm, it's a great spot to get some work done in a peaceful atmosphere.
There's a cozy cafe located near Phrasing Temple that you might miss if you're not looking for it. It has a black and stone design and is behind a hotel. Inside, you'll see the coffee counter and there are some big and long tables to sit at. They serve cake, coffee, and drinks, and there are some local restaurants nearby. It's a nice spot to work or relax with a good vibe and atmosphere.
Chapterone is a minimalistic cafe on Huey Keao road with comfy chairs and tables. The owner is friendly and offers good service. You can order food and drinks on the ground floor and work on the second floor, where there's also a small area for playing card games. It's a great place to sit and work in a good atmosphere.
Located close to Samtitham area, this hip cafe with temporary designs is only a 5-minute drive from Nimmahemin road. It has a coffee counter in the front building where you can order drinks, and a photo booth in the back. There's sitting space to chill in the second building on the left, and a bathroom and dining cafe in the building on the right. It's a great spot to grab a coffee and get some work done in a unique atmosphere.
Beautifully converted a house into a cafe, ensuring a good design to make you feel at home. Enjoy both indoor and outdoor seating areas. Treat yourself to delicious bakery items, refreshing drinks, and delightful coffee. Plus, they offer a reliable internet connection and plenty of plugs for your convenience.
This cozy minimal-style cafe! Adorned with wooden furniture, it exudes a warm and inviting ambiance. You'll find us on The Pae Street, a short 10-minute walk from The Pae gate. Enjoy delicious bakery treats, cakes, and drinks with complimentary 1-hour internet access. Work on the ground floor or second floor with fast internet speed.
Hidden gem local cafe in town located in the same building as local shopping mall, 5 mins walk to Chinese market (Warorot market) Treat yourself coffee experience crafted by talented baristas while soaking in the beautiful views of Chiang Mai. Peaceful spot to work, perfect for getting things done or simply enjoying some downtime.
The Cofreze - New cafe and roasted coffee place offers plenty of parking space for cars and motorbikes. You can choose your favorite coffee bean to create a personalized coffee taste that suits your palate. They offer fast internet and comfortable seating areas where you can relax. It's the perfect spot to enjoy your coffee and work in peace.
Introducing Franshine Coffee, a convenient café located in bustling cities like Chiang Mai, Bangkok, and Phuket. It's the perfect spot to enjoy delicious coffee and refreshing drinks. With multiple branches in Chiang Mai, the good news is they're open 24/7 – a fantastic option for night owls seeking a cozy place to work overnight.
For your convenience, we have prepared this Google Map with all coffee shops listed above.
Summary
There are cafes in the city that can be easily accessed by motorbike. They offer parking lots, and the internet speed is sufficient for some types of work that don't require fast internet. However, please note that there might be noise from other people and coffee machines, which is typical in cafes.
