UAE Entry Permits Now Require Passport Cover Page Copy

 

UAE Visa for Indians

UAE Adds New Requirement for Entry Permit Applications

Planning a trip to the United Arab Emirates? Be ready for a new document rule. Visitors applying for a UAE entry permit must now submit a copy of the outer cover page of their passport along with other standard paperwork. - This article was published a week ago. UAE Passport Cover Page Mandate

What’s Changed

Travel agencies and Amer centres (government service offices) confirmed that this requirement took effect recently. Applications now need:

• Clear copy of the passport information page

• Passport-size photograph

• Hotel booking confirmation

• Return flight ticket

• Copy of the passport’s external cover page

Without the cover page, the entry permit application will not be processed.

Why the Passport Cover Page Matters

Although UAE authorities haven’t released an official explanation, travel experts believe the change helps immigration officers quickly verify nationality. Some passports display nationality details in small print, leading to confusion. The cover page often carries clearer identifying features, making it easier to confirm the applicant’s country.

Confirmed by Amer Centres

Staff at several Amer centres reported receiving official notices last week. “We now upload the passport cover page for all visit visas and entry permits,” one representative said. “Applications without it cannot move forward.”

Tips for Travelers

• Scan or photograph the outer cover page clearly, ensuring it shows the passport’s texture and details.

• Keep digital and printed copies ready when applying for UAE tourist or visit visas.

• Double-check with your travel agency or the UAE’s General Directorate of Residency & Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) for the latest updates before submitting your application. Also Read: Khaleej Times

   

 

 

Is France Expensive to Visit in 2025? A Complete Travel Budget Guide

 

Is France Expensive to Visit in 2025?

Is France Expensive to Visit in 2025? A Complete Travel Budget Guide

France remains a dream destination for travelers worldwide, but how much does it cost to explore the City of Lights, the French Riviera, and the picturesque countryside in 2025? While France is among the more expensive countries in Europe, with an average daily cost of €262.13, t's still possible to enjoy a memorable trip without breaking the bank.

Daily Budget Estimates

Based on recent traveler data, here’s what you can expect to spend per day:

• Budget Traveler: €92 (~₹8,200)

• Mid-Range Traveler: €262 (~₹23,500)

• Luxury Traveler: €828 (~₹73,500)

Accommodation Costs

• Budget: Hostels and budget hotels range from €20–€50 per night.

• Mid-Range: Comfortable hotels or private Airbnb accommodations typically cost €80–€150 per night.

• Luxury: High-end hotels and resorts can start from €200 per night and go up significantly. 

Food & Dining

• Street Food: Enjoy a croissant or baguette sandwich for around €3–€5.

• Cafés & Bistros: A meal can range from €10–€20.

• Fine Dining: Expect to pay €30 and above for a three-course meal.

Transportation

• Public Transport: A single metro or bus ticket in Paris costs €2.50.

• Day Pass: Unlimited travel for a day is available for €12.

• Intercity Travel: Train tickets between cities like Paris to Lyon can range from €30–€100, depending on the class and booking time.

Attractions & Activities

• Museums & Galleries: Entry fees range from €10–€20.

• Guided Tours: Day tours can cost between €50–€150, depending on the destination and inclusions.

• Special Experiences: Wine tasting tours or cooking classes can range from €100–€200.

Money-Saving Tips

• Travel Off-Season: Visiting during spring or autumn can help you avoid peak prices.

• Book in Advance: Secure better rates on flights and accommodations by booking early.

• Use City Passes: Many cities offer passes that provide discounted entry to multiple attractions.

• Dine Like a Local: Opt for meals at local bistros or markets instead of tourist hotspots. https://www.lonelyplanet.com/france

Final Thoughts

While France can be on the pricier side, with careful planning and budgeting, it offers unparalleled experiences—from the romantic streets of Paris to the sun-kissed beaches of the French Riviera. By choosing budget accommodations, dining wisely, and taking advantage of free attractions, you can enjoy the best of France without overspending.

Read Here: Vietnam Trip Planning

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Italy Travel Costs in 2025: Budget Tips and Cost Breakdown

 

Italy Travel Costs in 2025

Is Italy Expensive in 2025? A Comprehensive Travel Cost Guide

Italy continues to be a dream destination for travelers worldwide. In 2025, while certain aspects of travel in Italy have become more expensive, there are still numerous ways to explore this beautiful country without breaking the bank. https://www.turismoroma.it/en

Average Travel Costs in Italy (2025)

Flights

• From India to Italy: Round-trip fares range from ₹50,000 to ₹70,000, depending on the season and booking time.

• Within Europe: Budget airlines like Ryanair and EasyJet offer fares as low as €20–€50 if booked in advance.

Accommodation

• Budget: Hostels and guesthouses cost approximately €30–€60 per night.

• Mid-Range: 3-star hotels range from €80–€150 per night.

• Luxury: 5-star hotels and resorts can go upwards of €200 per night.

Food & Dining

• Street Food & Casual Dining: Meals at local eateries cost around €5–€15.

• Mid-Range Restaurants: Expect to pay €20–€40 per person.

• Fine Dining: High-end restaurants may charge €50 and above per person.

Transportation

• Public Transport: Metro and bus rides typically cost €1.50–€2.

• Train Travel: High-speed trains between major cities range from €30–€100, depending on distance and booking time.

• Car Rentals: Daily rentals start at €30–€50, excluding fuel and insurance.

Attractions & Activities

• Entry Fees: Major attractions like the Colosseum or the Vatican Museums charge €10–€20.

• Guided Tours: Prices for guided tours vary but typically range from €30–€100, depending on the duration and inclusivity.

 Budget Travel Tips for Italy in 2025

1. Travel Off-Season: Visiting during shoulder seasons (April–June or September–October) can lead to lower prices and fewer crowds.

2. Use Public Transportation: Opt for buses and trains over taxis to save money.

3. Book in Advance: Secure better rates for flights and accommodation by booking several months ahead.

4. Stay in Agriturismos: Farm stays offer authentic experiences at reasonable prices.

5. Cook Your Own Meals: Shopping at local markets and preparing your own meals can significantly reduce food expenses.

Conclusion

Italy in 2025 offers a range of experiences to suit various budgets. With careful planning and smart choices, it's possible to enjoy the rich culture, history, and cuisine of Italy without overspending. Whether you're a backpacker or seeking luxury, Italy has something for everyone.

Book Flights with Skyscanner

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SafetyWing Nomad Travel Insurance: Affordable Coverage for Digital Nomads

 

SafetyWing Nomad Travel Insurance

Why Nomads Need Travel Insurance

Living abroad and working remotely sounds like the dream—freedom to explore, new cultures, and flexible schedules. But unexpected problems like medical emergencies, flight delays, or lost luggage can quickly turn a trip into a financial nightmare. That’s why having travel insurance is essential for digital nomads and long-term travelers.

What Is SafetyWing Nomad Insurance?

SafetyWing was created with digital nomads in mind. Unlike traditional travel insurance, which assumes short vacations with a fixed start and end date, SafetyWing offers flexible, subscription-based coverage. You can sign up from anywhere in the world, even after your trip has already started. Sign-up Here: SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

Key Features of SafetyWing

• Worldwide Coverage – Valid in 180+ countries, with limited home country visits included.

• Medical Protection – Covers unexpected illness, accidents, hospitalization, and COVID-19 treatment.

• Travel Benefits – Includes emergency evacuation, travel delays, and lost luggage.

• Flexible Subscription – Pay every 28 days, cancel anytime.

• Family-Friendly – Children under 10 can be added for free with a covered adult.

Who Should Consider It?

• Digital Nomads who work online while moving between countries.

• Long-Term Travelers on extended trips or gap years.

• Expats who want an affordable alternative to traditional health insurance.

Cost Breakdown

SafetyWing plans start at about $45 per month for travelers under 39 years old. Premiums increase with age but remain competitive compared to most insurers.

What’s Not Covered

It’s important to know what SafetyWing doesn’t cover:

• Pre-existing medical conditions

• Routine check-ups or preventive care

• High-risk adventure sports like base jumping

• Cancer treatment

Why SafetyWing Stands Out

Traditional travel insurance requires you to buy coverage before leaving your home country. SafetyWing is different: it’s designed to start and stop on your schedule, with no fixed return date. That flexibility makes it one of the best travel insurance options for nomads.

Final Thoughts

If you’re living the digital nomad lifestyle, SafetyWing Nomad Travel Insurance offers affordable, flexible protection for the risks that matter most. It won’t cover everything, but it will safeguard you against the unexpected emergencies that can derail life abroad.

Sign-up Here: SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

Read Here: Thailand Destination Thailand Visa

Vietnam Trip 2025: Complete Cost Breakdown & Budget Travel Tips for Indians

 

Vietnam Trip 2025: Complete Cost Breakdown & Budget Travel Tips for Indians

Why Vietnam Is Affordable for Indian Travelers

Vietnam remains a popular destination for Indian travelers due to its affordable currency, cheap transport, street food, and easy visa process. Here’s why it’s budget-friendly:

• Favorable Currency: 1 INR ≈ 300–320 Vietnamese Dong

• Cheap Local Transport: GrabBike, buses, and internal flights are inexpensive

• Street Food Culture: Meals like pho, banh mi, or rice dishes cost under ₹150

• Affordable SIM Cards: 30-day 4G SIMs are cheaper than most Asian countries

• E-Visa System: Simple, fast, and inexpensive application process

Vietnam Travel Costs 2025: Full Breakdown

Flights (Round-Trip)

• ₹18,000–₹28,000

• From major Indian cities to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City via AirAsia, VietJet, Scoot, etc.

Visa (E-Visa)

• ₹1,800–₹2,200

• 30-day single entry, processed in 3–5 days

Accommodation

• Budget Hotel/Hostel: ₹500–₹1,200/night – dorms, guesthouses, or basic private rooms

• Mid-Range Hotel: ₹1,500–₹3,000/night – 3-star hotels or boutique stays

Food

• ₹150–₹300/meal

• Street food meals like pho, banh mi, bun cha, or rice dishes

Local Transport

• ₹100–₹300/day

• Local buses, motorbike rentals (₹250/day), Grab bike rides

Attractions & Tickets

• ₹0–₹500/day

• Museums, boat rides, scenic spots are mostly low-cost or free

SIM/Data

• ₹300–₹500

• 4G SIM cards with 10–15GB data for 30 days

Daily Budget

• Backpacker: ₹1,200–₹2,000/day (stay, food, transport, entry fees)

• Comfort Travel: ₹2,500–₹4,000/day (private rooms, better food, intercity travel)

 Apply your Vietnam Express Visa Here: Vietnam E-visa express Service

What Makes Vietnam Expensive

Even though Vietnam is budget-friendly, costs can rise due to:

• Last-minute Flights: ₹35,000–₹45,000 roundtrip airfare

• Resorts or Boutique Hotels: ₹6,000–₹15,000 per night

• Western or Indian Food: ₹800–₹2,000 per meal

• Private Tours & Cruises: ₹2,000–₹30,000 per package

• Not Using Grab: Overpriced taxis and scams

• Premium Destinations: Higher food, travel, and stay costs (e.g., Sapa, Phu Quoc)

• Tourist Area Shopping: Price markups 2–3x without bargaining

• Currency Confusion: Risk of overpaying, especially with VND notes

How to Travel Vietnam Cheaply

Save money while exploring Vietnam with these tips:

• Book Flights in Advance: 2–3 months ahead for the best fares

• Stay Local: Guesthouses or hostels instead of resorts

• Eat Street Food: Pho, banh mi, bun cha for authentic and cheap meals

• Use Grab or Public Buses: Affordable and convenient

• Join Group Tours: Instead of expensive private tours

• Bargain: Especially in markets and tourist areas

• Learn Basic Vietnamese Phrases: Helps in local interactions and better deals. 

  Vietnam National Administration of Tourism  

Watch my video here: 

 

South Africa ETA 2025: Easy Online Entry for Tourists & Business Travelers

 

South Africa ETA 2025: Easy Online Entry for Tourists & Business Travelers

South Africa Introduces Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

South Africa is set to simplify international travel with its new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system. Launching in mid-October 2025, the ETA will initially serve visitors from four G20 countries, offering faster approvals and streamlined entry at major airports.

Dr. Leon Schreiber, Minister of Home Affairs, announced, “Our ETA system automates visas using machine learning, enhancing security while removing entry delays for tourists.”

What Is the South Africa ETA?

The ETA is a digital travel pass that replaces the traditional visa process for short-term stays. It is suitable for:

• Tourism

• Business visits

• Family trips

Each ETA is linked to the traveller’s passport and comes with a secure QR code for quick verification at border control. The aim is to reduce long queues and improve overall travel experience.

Who Needs an ETA?

Initially, the ETA will be available to nationals of China, India, Indonesia, and Mexico, all of whom currently require visas for South Africa.

• Visa-required travelers: Apply online instead of visiting consulates.

• Visa-exempt travelers: Optional, but speeds up border checks.

In the future, South Africa plans to extend ETA eligibility to all travelers needing a visa.

Where Can You Use the ETA?

The ETA is valid for entry at:

• O. R. Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg

• Cape Town International Airport

Key Features & Validity

• Validity: 90 days, extendable once for another 90 days

• Purpose: Tourism, business, family visits (no work or study permits)

• Multiple entries: Allowed during validity

• Convenience: Store in Google Wallet or Apple Wallet

The ETA is strictly for short stays and cannot be converted into employment or study permits.

How to Apply for ETA

The ETA application process is simple and fast:

1. Register – Create an account on the official ETA platform

2. Biometrics – Upload a live selfie

3. Passport – Upload a passport photo

4. Application Form – Fill in travel details

5. Submit – Instant approval in straightforward cases

Approved ETAs are downloadable as PDFs and can also be stored digitally for convenience.

Customs Declaration Requirement

Before departure, travelers must complete the Customs Online Traveller Declaration via the South African Revenue Service (SARS) portal. This ensures a fully digitalized border management system.

Future Expansion

Post-G20, South Africa plans to gradually expand the ETA program to more travelers, introducing automated entry and exit checks using facial recognition. Over time, the ETA could become the standard for all visa-required travelers. South African Department of Home Affairs

Read Here: Malaysia Passport Free from Sept 22, 2025

Watch the video here: South Africa ETA

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Thai Airways Flight Disruptions to Hong Kong & Taiwan Amid Typhoon Ragasa

 

Thai Airways Flight Disruption Alert

Thai Airways Flight Disruption Alert: What Travellers Need to Know

Thai Airways has issued a travel advisory as Typhoon Ragasa threatens to disrupt several flights from Bangkok to Hong Kong and Taiwan between 22–24 September 2025. If you have plans in this route, here’s everything you should know. 

What’s Being Advised & What You Should Do

• Passengers travelling on the affected days are urged to check the status of their flights before heading to the airport.

• Thai Airways has provided contact numbers for assistance:

  • THAI Contact Centre (Thailand): 0-2356-1111 (24h)

  • Hong Kong office: +852 2495 1115

  • Taiwan office: +886 2 7753 7973

What’s the Situation

• The typhoon is moving through Taiwan and Hong Kong, potentially causing severe weather conditions that could affect flight schedules.

• Thai Airways has specifically flagged disruptions for flights to Kaohsiung (Taiwan) as well as Hong Kong during this period.

Weather Impacts Across Thailand & Region

• The Thai Meteorological Department has issued warnings that heavy rainfall will affect 45 provinces across Thailand, including Bangkok, during this weather event.

• The monsoon system, boosted by Typhoon Ragasa, may bring thunderstorms, flooding risks, strong winds, especially in areas with steep terrain or poor drainage. Read Here: Full News by Thaiger

Travel Tips to Stay Prepared

Here are some steps to minimize disruption and protect your trip:

1. Check flight status frequently before travelling—airlines may issue updates.

2. Keep contact info of your airline handy, including local offices (Hong Kong / Taiwan).

3. Arrive at the airport early in case there are delays or rebookings.

4. Have flexibility in your plans — in some cases flights might be rescheduled or cancelled.

5. Monitor weather updates from reliable sources such as national meteorological agencies.

Bottom Line

Typhoon Ragasa is expected to affect flights between Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Taiwan from 22 to 24 September 2025. While not all flights are confirmed cancelled, delays are likely. If you're flying with Thai Airways on these routes, stay alert and check with the airline to avoid last-minute surprises.

Have you booked a flight in this route during these days? Let me know if you’ve seen changes in schedule or had to rebook—your experience could help others.

 Suggested Internal Links on Travel Man Today

Should You Buy Property in Thailand

Dubai Visa Update 2025: Passport Cover Copy May Be Required

Dubai Visa Update 2025: Passport Cover Copy May Be Required

Dubai Visa Passport Cover Copy Requirement in 2025

If you’re planning a trip to Dubai in 2025, a surprising new document may soon be part of the visa process: a copy of your passport’s outer front cover.

Several visa service providers are reporting this update, though the UAE’s official immigration authorities haven’t confirmed it yet. Whether or not it becomes a strict requirement, travelers are advised to be prepared.

Why the Passport Cover Copy Matters

According to visa facilitators, immigration authorities may request this page for:

• Verification – Matching the cover details with your passport’s bio-data page.

• Fraud prevention – Reducing the risk of tampered or altered passports.

• Faster approvals – Avoiding delays caused by missing documents.

Even if not yet mandatory, uploading the cover could prevent your application from being rejected or delayed.

Who Could Be Affected

This possible change may apply to:

• All nationalities applying for a Dubai visa

• Tourist, transit, business, single-entry, and multiple-entry visas

• Both first-time travelers and frequent visitors

In short, if you’re applying for any UAE entry permit in 2025, it’s safest to include your passport cover along with your bio-data page.

Processing Times in 2025

Reports suggest visa processing times remain the same:

• Standard applications: 24–72 hours

• Express/super express services: 6–24 hours

However, these timelines only hold if all required pages are uploaded. Submitting just the bio-data page without the cover could bounce your application back, costing you both time and money.

Checklist: How to Stay Ready

Before applying for a Dubai visa in 2025, here’s what you should do:

• Scan or photograph the front cover and bio-data page in color.

• Make sure all text and emblems are clear and legible.

• Save the files as high-resolution JPEG or PDF.

• Upload both pages, even if the system doesn’t explicitly ask.

• Double-check that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel date.

These small steps can prevent last-minute headaches when applying.

Stay Updated on UAE Visa Rules

Since this update hasn’t been formally announced, always:

• Confirm the latest requirements on the official UAE Embassy website

• Check the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA Dubai) site

• Stay alert to announcements from authorized visa centers

Being proactive keeps your trip on track without costly surprises.  

Watch the video here:

 

Should You Buy Property in Thailand in 2025? Market Insights & Risks

 

Should You Buy Property in Thailand in 2025?

Current Market Situation

Thailand’s real estate market is showing cautious optimism. Property prices are expected to rise 3–7% in 2025, fueled by tourism recovery, infrastructure projects, and growing foreign demand for premium properties. The Bank of Thailand has eased loan-to-value (LTV) rules, offering up to 100% mortgage financing from May 2025 to mid-2026 to absorb oversupply and boost housing activity. However, household debt remains high at 89% of GDP, and domestic mortgage approvals are limited. Recent border conflicts with Cambodia caused economic damage of over ฿10 billion (~$300 million), highlighting vulnerabilities in rural economies. Watch my complete video in Hind with English Sub-titles here: Should you buy a condo in Thailand or not?

Key Market Drivers

Tourism Rebound: Thailand expects around 41 million visitors in 2025, surpassing pre-pandemic levels, driving demand for vacation rentals in hotspots like Phuket, Pattaya, and Chiang Mai.
Infrastructure Growth: Projects like the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), high-speed rail (Bangkok–Pattaya–Chiang Mai), MRT extensions, and airport expansions increase property value in transit corridors.
Government Stimulus: Fee reductions, extended LTV, and long-term visa programs for foreigners (Elite Visa, Digital Nomad Visa) attract investment.
New Asset Types: Industrial facilities, serviced apartments, data centers, and green developments are rising, especially near EEC and border zones.

Risks for Foreign Buyers

Legal Ownership Restrictions: Foreigners cannot own land—only condos under the 49% foreign quota. Some try to bypass rules with nominee Thai companies, which is illegal and risky.

Safe Legal Workaround – Long-Term Lease: Leases of up to 30 years are legal and enforceable. Foreigners can build homes on leased land with proper registration and optional renewal.

Market Oversupply: Major cities like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Chiang Mai have unsold condo units, slowing resale potential and rental yields. Buying in prime tourist or transit zones improves long-term appreciation.

Currency Exchange & Repatriation: Purchase funds must be remitted in foreign currency with a Foreign Exchange Transaction (FET) certificate. Proper documentation ensures smooth fund repatriation when selling.

Developer & Quality Risks: Smaller developers may delay projects or provide low-quality construction. Opt for reputable developers (Sansiri, Ananda, SC Asset, Origin) and check building management history.

Rental Guarantees: Be cautious of “guaranteed rental income” schemes; many are unsustainable and include hidden fees.

Ongoing Costs & Hidden Fees: Monthly maintenance fees (CAM) can be high. Request full disclosure before purchase to avoid legal complications.

Limited Legal Recourse: Thai laws favor developers and locals. Disputes can take years, so hire independent property lawyers, not developer-affiliated ones.

Visa & Residency: Owning property doesn’t grant a long-stay visa. Align property purchases with visa strategies like Elite, LTR, or retirement visas.

Resale Challenges: Selling to another foreigner is limited by the foreign quota. Buy in marketable areas to ensure liquidity.

Geopolitical & Economic Risks: Border tensions, political unrest, or global economic shocks can reduce tourism, affecting property demand and value.

 Related Resources for you: 

1. Bank of Thailand: https://www.travelmantoday.com/thailand-visa-rules-2025 
2. Board of Investments Thailand: https://www.boi.go.th/en/index/
3. Thailand Property Laws: https://www.thailand-property.com/ 

Best Practices for Foreign Buyers

• Buy only condos within the foreign quota and ensure registration with the Chanote (Title Deed).

• Use Thai banks for transfers and obtain an FET certificate.

• Hire independent Thai property lawyers for due diligence and contract review.

• Prioritize properties in prime locations with good building management.

• View Thai property as a lifestyle or diversification investment, not a primary wealth-builder. 

Thailand DTV Visa for Indians 2025: Costs, Rentals & Workspace Insights

 

Thailand DTV Visa for Indians 2025: Costs, Rentals & Workspace Insights

Thailand DTV Visa for Indians 2025: Costs, Rentals & Workspace Insights

Thailand's Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) has become a sought-after option for Indians looking to live and work remotely in Southeast Asia. Here's a comprehensive guide to understanding the DTV visa, associated costs, rental options, property ownership rules, and workspace facilities available in Thailand.

What is the Thailand DTV Visa?

The Thailand DTV is a long-term visa designed for digital nomads, freelancers, and remote workers. It allows individuals to live and work in Thailand for extended periods, typically ranging from 6 months to 1 year, with the possibility of renewal.

Costs Associated with the DTV Visa

• Visa Application Fee: The application fee for the DTV visa varies depending on the duration and type of visa. It's essential to check the latest fees on the official Thai immigration website or consult with the Thai embassy in India.

• Health Insurance: Applicants are required to have valid health insurance coverage for the duration of their stay in Thailand. The cost of health insurance can vary based on the provider and coverage level.

• Proof of Income: Applicants must demonstrate a stable income to support themselves during their stay. This can be through bank statements, employment contracts, or freelance agreements.

Rental Options in Thailand

Renting accommodation in Thailand is relatively affordable compared to many Western countries. Popular areas for digital nomads include:

• Bangkok: Offers a vibrant city life with numerous coworking spaces, cafes, and entertainment options.

• Chiang Mai: Known for its laid-back atmosphere and strong digital nomad community.

• Phuket: Ideal for those seeking a beach lifestyle while working remotely.

Rental prices can vary based on location and type of accommodation. On average:

• Studio Apartments: Prices range from ₹15,000 to ₹30,000 per month.

• 1-Bedroom Apartments: Prices range from ₹25,000 to ₹50,000 per month.

• Shared Accommodation: Prices range from ₹10,000 to ₹20,000 per month.

Property Ownership Rules for Foreigners

As a foreigner, you cannot own land in Thailand. However, you can own a condominium unit, provided that:

• Foreign ownership in the condominium building does not exceed 49% of the total units.

• The funds used for the purchase are transferred from abroad in foreign currency.

It's advisable to consult with a local real estate agent or legal advisor to navigate the property ownership process.

Workspace Facilities in Thailand

Thailand boasts a plethora of coworking spaces catering to digital nomads and remote workers. Some popular coworking spaces include:

• WeWork: Available in major cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

• Hubba: A well-known coworking space with multiple locations.

• The Work Loft: Offers flexible membership options and a collaborative environment.

• Spaces: Provides creative working environments with various amenities.

Membership fees for coworking spaces typically range from ₹5,000 to ₹15,000 per month, depending on the location and facilities offered.

Conclusion

The Thailand DTV visa presents an excellent opportunity for Indians seeking to live and work remotely in a vibrant and affordable environment. By understanding the visa requirements, associated costs, rental options, property ownership rules, and workspace facilities, you can make an informed decision about your move to Thailand.

For more detailed information and the latest updates on the Thailand DTV visa, it's recommended to consult the official Thai immigration website https://immigration.go.th/or contact the nearest Thai embassy https://newdelhi.thaiembassy.org/en.

Watch my related video:  How to Make Payments to Thailand from India

Malaysia’s Passport Free Border Trial Starts Sept 22 2025

Malaysia’s Passport Free Border Trial Starts Sept 22 2025

 

Malaysia Starts Passport-Free QR Code Border Trial at Johor–Singapore

Faster Travel Without Handing Over a Passport

Imagine driving from Johor to Singapore—one of the world’s busiest land borders—without ever handing over your passport. No stamping, no flipping through pages. Starting 22 September 2025, Malaysia is testing exactly that.

Every day, more than 300,000 travellers cross these checkpoints. With Malaysia’s new National Integrated Immigration System (NIISe), those long queues could shrink dramatically.

How the Passport-Free System Works

Under the NIISe programme, travellers simply scan a QR code using the MyNIISe mobile app instead of presenting a physical passport to an officer.

• One QR code can cover everyone in the same car or motorcycle convoy.

• Travellers must still carry their passports as a backup but do not need to hand them over.

This upgrade combines AI and facial recognition to maintain security while speeding up clearance. 

Booth Setup on the Ground

The government has equipped checkpoints with NIISe-enabled lanes:

Johor Bahru Checkpoint

• 8 car booths each way

• 7 motorcycle exit booths

• 2 arrival booths

• 2 departure booths

Second Link Checkpoint

• 6 car booths

• 4 motorcycle booths

• 2 pedestrian lanes per direction 

Pilot Locations and Timeline

The first phase runs 22 September 2025 to 28 February 2026 and covers the Johor–Singapore land crossings:

• Johor Causeway

• Second Link

If the trial succeeds, Phase 2 will extend to five major airports:

• Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminals 1 & 2

• Penang International Airport

• Kuching International Airport

• Kota Kinabalu International Airport

Why This Matters

The Johor–Singapore border is the busiest land crossing in the world.
Faster group processing means less idling for buses, cars, and bikes, while enhanced technology strengthens border security.

What Travellers Should Do

Current MyBorderPass users can continue using the old app for now, but Malaysian authorities recommend downloading the new MyNIISe app—available on both iOS and Android—to experience the passport-free system.

Once the pilot ends, NIISe is expected to replace older QR systems across the country. 

Watch the full video here:  

 

References: 

Malaysia Immigration 

Malaysia Tourism Board 

Strait Times