Allegations of digital nomad visa related scams are surfacing across Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, sparking concern among remote workers and expats across Southeast Asia.
While none of the claims have been officially verified, growing chatter across online forums, Reddit communities, and traveler groups suggests that a wave of fraudulent intermediaries and fake websites is targeting applicants of legitimate government visa programs.
Thailand’s Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)—a genuine long-stay visa for remote professionals—has reportedly become a magnet for copycat sites and deceptive “visa packages.” Users on Reddit and Thai travel forums describe instances where they paid hundreds of dollars to “consultants” promising guaranteed approval, only to receive invalid documents or no response at all. Several look-alike websites using non-government domains (such as .com and .online) have been flagged by users as scams pretending to be the official .go.th portals.
Similar concerns are emerging in Indonesia, where excitement over the E33G Remote Worker Visa has led to a proliferation of suspicious third-party “guarantor services.” Applicants have shared experiences of phishing emails requesting payments outside the official evisa.imigrasi.go.id platform, while others report intermediaries claiming to offer “tax-free” status in exchange for expedited processing—offers immigration authorities have never endorsed.
In the Philippines, where a digital nomad visa framework is being rolled out through 2025, reports of “fixer” scams are surfacing around embassy appointment systems. These alleged agents promise “priority slots” or paid interview access, though government offices emphasize that such services are not authorized.
Experts caution that these cases, while not formally documented or confirmed, reflect a growing vulnerability in the region’s booming remote-work ecosystem. The combination of new visa programs, high demand, and limited applicant experience creates fertile ground for exploitation.
Digital nomads are advised to use only official government websites, avoid off-platform payments, and cross-check any service provider through embassies or trusted online communities. The digital nomad visa movement continues to expand across Southeast Asia—but so too do the risks that come with it.
Read full article: These 3 Asian Countries Are Accused Of Digital Nomad Visa Related Scams
The post “These 3 Asian Countries Are Accused Of Digital Nomad Visa Related Scams” by Viktor Vincej was published on 11/06/2025 by www.travelinglifestyle.net