DTV Visa – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Looking for answers about Thailand’s new DTV Visa? This FAQ page covers everything from eligibility and application steps to extensions, fees, and reporting requirements.
Updated regularly as new info becomes available.
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Application Process
Can I apply for the DTV visa from any country?
You can apply from any country with access to Thailand's eVisa system. However, some embassies require that you reside in the country where you apply.
Do I need to stay in the same country while my application is processed?
Yes. Once you apply, you must remain in the country you applied from until your visa is approved. Leaving may result in delays or rejection.
What happens if my application is rejected?
If rejected, you will receive a reason from the Thai embassy or consulate. You can reapply once the issue is resolved, though the fee is non-refundable.
How long does it take to get approved for the DTV visa?
Approval times vary by embassy, but it typically takes between 2 to 6 weeks. Delays are common if documents are missing or unclear.
Can I switch categories after submitting my DTV visa application?
No, once you submit your application under a specific category, you cannot switch. You would need to reapply and pay the fee again.
Is it possible to convert a tourist visa to a DTV visa while in Thailand?
No. The DTV visa can only be applied for through Thailand's eVisa system while outside the country.
Can I switch categories after submitting my DTV visa application?
No, once you submit your application under a specific category, you cannot switch. You would need to reapply and pay the fee again.
What is the minimum passport validity required for the DTV visa?
Your passport should have at least 6 months of remaining validity at the time of application. Some embassies may recommend even longer.
Is it mandatory to book accommodation before applying for the DTV visa?
No, you do not need confirmed accommodation at the time of applying. However, you may be asked for a Thai address upon arrival.
Can I apply from a country I’m visiting as a tourist?
Some embassies require that you hold legal residency in the country you're applying from. Check with your selected embassy beforehand.
Do I need to show income, or just savings?
Savings are sufficient if they meet the threshold. However, some embassies may ask for proof of ongoing income to ensure sustainability.
What file formats are accepted for the DTV application uploads?
Most embassies accept PDF, JPG, and PNG files. Documents must be under the file size limit—usually 3MB per file.
Fees & Financial Requirements
How much does the DTV visa cost?
The fee starts at 10,000 THB, but varies by embassy. In some countries, like New Zealand, it can be as high as 40,000 THB.
Can I use funds from a business account to meet the financial requirement?
No, only personal accounts are accepted for the 500,000 THB financial requirement. Business or joint accounts may be rejected.
Can I use funds from a business account to meet the financial requirement?
No, only personal accounts are accepted for the 500,000 THB financial requirement. Business or joint accounts may be rejected.
Do dependants need to meet the financial requirements separately?
No, dependants are supported by the primary DTV visa holder, who must demonstrate the financial capacity to support them.
Can I include multiple bank accounts to meet the 500,000 THB requirement?
Yes, you can submit statements from multiple personal accounts as long as the total balance meets or exceeds 500,000 THB.
Do I need to show income, or just savings?
Savings are sufficient if they meet the threshold. However, some embassies may ask for proof of ongoing income to ensure sustainability.
General Requirements
Is health insurance required for the DTV visa?
It is not explicitly required for approval, but it’s strongly recommended for safety.
Do I need to report my address while staying in Thailand?
Yes. TM30 and 90-day reporting are mandatory for all long-stay visa holders, including those on a DTV visa.
Can I use funds from a business account to meet the financial requirement?
No, only personal accounts are accepted for the 500,000 THB financial requirement. Business or joint accounts may be rejected.
What is the minimum passport validity required for the DTV visa?
Your passport should have at least 6 months of remaining validity at the time of application. Some embassies may recommend even longer.
Can I use funds from a business account to meet the financial requirement?
No, only personal accounts are accepted for the 500,000 THB financial requirement. Business or joint accounts may be rejected.
What is the minimum passport validity required for the DTV visa?
Your passport should have at least 6 months of remaining validity at the time of application. Some embassies may recommend even longer.
Are soft power programs approved automatically?
No. You must provide official proof of enrollment and supporting documents from a recognized Thai institution for approval.
Can I include multiple bank accounts to meet the 500,000 THB requirement?
Yes, you can submit statements from multiple personal accounts as long as the total balance meets or exceeds 500,000 THB.
Entry, Duration & Extensions
What’s the difference between a DTV extension and a border run?
An extension lets you stay in Thailand beyond 180 days without leaving. A border run resets your 180-day count by re-entering the country.
How many times can I enter and exit Thailand on the DTV visa?
The DTV visa is a multiple-entry visa valid for 5 years. You can leave and re-enter as many times as you like, but each stay is limited to 180 days.
Do I need to provide a return ticket when entering Thailand on a DTV visa?
Return tickets are not strictly required for DTV visa holders, but immigration officers may ask for proof of onward travel. It’s best to be prepared.
Is the 180-day extension guaranteed?
No. Extensions are granted at the discretion of Thai immigration and require proper documentation, financial proof, and valid reasoning.
How many times can I enter and exit Thailand on the DTV visa?
The DTV visa is a multiple-entry visa valid for 5 years. You can leave and re-enter as many times as you like, but each stay is limited to 180 days.
Do I need to provide a return ticket when entering Thailand on a DTV visa?
Return tickets are not strictly required for DTV visa holders, but immigration officers may ask for proof of onward travel. It’s best to be prepared.
Is the 180-day extension guaranteed?
No. Extensions are granted at the discretion of Thai immigration and require proper documentation, financial proof, and valid reasoning.
Can I stay in Thailand for the full 5 years without leaving?
No. Each stay is limited to 180 days. You must either apply for an extension or leave and re-enter to reset your stay period.
Eligibility & Restrictions
Can I apply for the DTV visa from any country?
You can apply from any country with access to Thailand's eVisa system. However, some embassies require that you reside in the country where you apply.
Can I bring my spouse or children on the DTV visa?
Yes, spouses and children can apply under the Dependant category. Proof of relationship and financial support is required.
Can I have Thai clients or work with Thai companies on a DTV visa?
No. DTV visa holders may not work with Thai companies or earn income from within Thailand. The work must be for foreign entities only.
Can I apply for the DTV visa if I’m self-employed?
Yes. Self-employed individuals and freelancers can apply under the Workcation category, as long as your clients are not Thai companies.
Is it possible to convert a tourist visa to a DTV visa while in Thailand?
No. The DTV visa can only be applied for through Thailand's eVisa system while outside the country.
Are there any age limits for dependants on the DTV visa?
Yes. Spouses must be at least 20 years old. Children must be legal dependants and typically under 20 years of age.
Can I switch categories after submitting my DTV visa application?
No, once you submit your application under a specific category, you cannot switch. You would need to reapply and pay the fee again.
Can I apply for the DTV visa if I’m self-employed?
Yes. Self-employed individuals and freelancers can apply under the Workcation category, as long as your clients are not Thai companies.
Can I apply for the DTV visa with clients in Thailand?
No, the DTV visa is strictly for remote work with foreign clients or employers. You cannot work with Thai-based companies or clients.
Can I apply from a country I’m visiting as a tourist?
Some embassies require that you hold legal residency in the country you're applying from. Check with your selected embassy beforehand.
Can I attend Thai language courses on a DTV visa?
Yes, if you're in the Soft Power category and enrolled in a recognized Thai cultural or educational program.
Workcation (Remote Workers & Freelancers)
Can I apply for the DTV visa if I’m self-employed?
Yes. Self-employed individuals and freelancers can apply under the Workcation category, as long as your clients are not Thai companies.
Can I apply for the DTV visa if I’m self-employed?
Yes. Self-employed individuals and freelancers can apply under the Workcation category, as long as your clients are not Thai companies.
Can I apply for the DTV visa with clients in Thailand?
No, the DTV visa is strictly for remote work with foreign clients or employers. You cannot work with Thai-based companies or clients.
Soft Power Applicants
Are soft power programs approved automatically?
No. You must provide official proof of enrollment and supporting documents from a recognized Thai institution for approval.
Can I attend Thai language courses on a DTV visa?
Yes, if you're in the Soft Power category and enrolled in a recognized Thai cultural or educational program.
Dependants
Can I bring my spouse or children on the DTV visa?
Yes, spouses and children can apply under the Dependant category. Proof of relationship and financial support is required.
Are there any age limits for dependants on the DTV visa?
Yes. Spouses must be at least 20 years old. Children must be legal dependants and typically under 20 years of age.
Do dependants need to meet the financial requirements separately?
No, dependants are supported by the primary DTV visa holder, who must demonstrate the financial capacity to support them.
Documents & Uploads
What file formats are accepted for the DTV application uploads?
Most embassies accept PDF, JPG, and PNG files. Documents must be under the file size limit—usually 3MB per file.
Reporting (TM30 & 90-Day)
Do I need to report my address while staying in Thailand?
Yes. TM30 and 90-day reporting are mandatory for all long-stay visa holders, including those on a DTV visa.