Can I apply for a DTV while my Non-B visa is still valid in Thailand?

Question

Dear members, I've researched the topic but I would like to ask this group as well... Has anyone here applied for DTV for soft power while non-B was still valid?

I've been working legally in Thailand for two years, but my employment will end next month and naturally, my non-B will be cancelled. My plan is to apply for DTV for Muay Thai (I've been training for years) while my non-B is still valid, return to Thailand on my non-B after DTV gets approved (hopefully), and when the non-B gets cancelled next month, I'd leave Thailand again and return on DTV.

My income will come from investments in my home country and online work from outside the country. I will not work in Thailand - but I wish to avoid that officers will suspect otherwise. Has anybody else transitioned from non-B to DTV like this? I'd appreciate you to share your experience, tips & tricks...

Thank you for sharing!

Ask Thailand · Answer

A member of the community is seeking advice on transitioning from a Non-B visa to a DTV visa for the purpose of Muay Thai training. They plan to apply for the DTV while their Non-B is still valid and hope to return on the Non-B after DTV approval. Several comments indicate concerns about this approach, highlighting that one cannot hold two valid visas simultaneously and suggesting that it may be better to wait for the Non-B to cancel before applying for the DTV. Additionally, tips are given on the importance of proper documentation and canceling the work extension with immigration.

Eva ******* · Answer

Once your DTV is issued, it’s updated in the immigration system right away. So, you won’t be able to re-enter Thailand on your Non-B and keep it active. When you arrive, immigration will see both visas — they’ll usually cancel the Non-B and give you the DTV stamp instead. Some officers may ask which visa you prefer to keep, but you can’t hold both.

Brandon ************ · Answer

Make sure you get the proper paperwork from your employee stating the end of your contract and last day of work, because you will need to go to immigration yourself with your passport and cancel your work extension to properly close out the loop.  If you don't do that, you could be limited on visa options in the future and fined up to 20,000 baht for failing to notify immigration that you stopped working.  Even when your extension ends, you are still required to report the change of status to immigration and officially cancel your extension with them.  You can do this a few days early and they'll still let you stay until the date in your paperwork if it is on or before your extension ending.

Winston ************ · Answer

Why would you think that's a good idea? How would that even work???

John ********** · Answer

I'd suggest you go and apply for the DTV after both your Extension of stay based on working and your work permit have been cancelled

Anonymous ****************** · Answer

Unlikely, plus make sure you're able to explain things properly in your documentation. I've seen one post today about someone previously on Non-B who got denied.

Will ************ · Answer

You cant have 2 valid visas, you would get stamped in on your DTV IF your application is approved.

Wesley ******** · Answer

never heard of this but i would say its unlikely.

Let your non-B be cancelled, then leave to where you plan to apply from, stay there for however long until its granted and come back.

They asked me about me previous non-b and were concerned i was using it to work around the normal visa system. Interview was about 20 mins.

Can I apply for a DTV while my Non-B visa is still valid in Thailand?

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