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Can I apply for a Thai DTV while in Thailand on a visa exemption?

May 24, 2025
14 hours ago
Szymon ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hey guys. I can't find definitive answer and it's really annoying as it's nowhere said it can't be done like described below.

Is it okay to go abroad, apply for DTV and come back on visa exemption then wait in Thailand for DTV?

I asked two visa offices and one said "yes, you can come back" and other "no, you must stay abroa until approved". 🫣😅
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The conversation revolves around whether one can return to Thailand on a visa exemption after applying for a DTV (Digital Nomad Visa) abroad. There are conflicting opinions from various visa offices, with some suggesting it is permissible while others strongly advise against it, citing potential risks of application denial. Many commenters emphasize the importance of remaining outside Thailand during the application process to avoid complications. Official confirmations from embassies are difficult to obtain, leading to frustration among applicants.
DTV VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
Nick ***********
When you apply for the visa you have to show proof that you are not in Thailand for this exact reason. Personally I stayed gone because it was not worth risking the $400 and the possibility of having to reapply.
Szymon ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Nick **********
I did. I'm abroad, in Malaysia currently. But at first I assumed it's only to submit application, not wait the whole, maybe lengthy process with unknown result... Eh.
Henrik *****
Train your research skills, That question is answered multiple times almost every day.

You have to stay in the application country, during the whole visa proces, until the visa is granted or rejected.
Szymon ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Henrik ****
I tried to contact that particular embassy but they don't pick up phones.
Henrik *****
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Henrik *****
Since E-visa has been introduced, because of Embassy security, no people are allowed to come in person, unless you are invited.
Szymon ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Henrik ****
I understand... I assume best I can do is just sit on my butt and wait. :-/
Henrik *****
Most Embassies ( in fact very very few) will answer anything on facebook, and if they answer mails / phones they will tell you to read their website.

In stead of answering questions they prioritize to proces applications.
Szymon ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Henrik ****
Well, makes sense...

I'll try to pop up there on Monday and ask directly.
Szymon ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Henrik ****
Sorry but I just saw like OPINIONS. Haven't seen any quotes from embassies. That's why I'm trying to get a very official confirmation.
Anna *********
No and it’s very clearly stated
Szymon ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Anna ********
May I see where, please?
Bob **********
If your called in for an interview or asked to prove location your application will be denied
Will ************
Someone went to do a 90 day report yesterday. The checker noticed that they had done what you are trying to do . Their visa was revoked.
Davis ******
@Will ***********
total rubbish
Szymon ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
I'm just wondering if that's something actually against the rules. As all I found is about submitting docs in the other country... But nothing about waiting there. If have to go for interview, it's on me, I get it, I have to quickly come back.
Will ************
@Szymon **********
interview would include a full passport and documentation check
Szymon ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Will ***********
Yes.

And leaving Malaysia during processing time ---> rejection in case of interview and found that out in passport?

By law? That what concerns me, if it's strictly forbidden, I just can't find confirmation.
John *******
@Szymon **********
here is an example of one embassy explicitly stating it
Szymon ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@John ******
Oh okay. Now it's clear. Thank you.
Szymon ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Stuart *********
@Will ***********
That’s questionable as to whether that was a bullshit post.
Will ************
@Stuart ********
would have made some sense if they had stated denied extension due to not fulfilling the requirements
Andi ***********
@Stuart ********
No Q, total B/S hence the usual non response by the OP.
Stuart *********
Loads of posts like this. The answer is no you can’t, but some have done so.

Some embassies may require you to attend an interview at short notice, some may ask for a copy of all your passport pages and will see your latest entry stamp.

Whether you want to risk your application being denied is your call.
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