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Can I obtain a DTV visa by taking a Thai cooking course?

Sep 30, 2025
7 months ago
What’s the safest option when applying for a DTV by way of soft power? I don’t want to do Muay Thai but would love to learn Thai cooking. Is it still feasible to get the visa from a cooking course? And which courses are trustworthy? Thanks
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The safest option for applying for a DTV visa through soft power, without pursuing Muay Thai, is learning Thai cooking. Several expats have successfully obtained their DTV visa by enrolling in cooking courses. Recommended schools include Arun Thai Cooking School, House of Taste Thai Cooking, and Bangkok Cooking Academy, each noted for their reliability and DTV compliance. It's advisable to research and choose a course that meets your schedule and learning preferences.
DTV VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
Dianne *********
I had a very good experience dealing with Arun Thai Cooking school. They were really easy to work with and was able to work with me when it came to adjusting dates based on my needs. They are based in Bangkok.
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James ********
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Henrik *****
You could learn a lot by reading previous posts.
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Greg ********
There are a few - where do you want to spend your time or does that not matter?
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Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Greg *******
was thinking Bangkok but Chiang Mai is an option too
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Greg ********
I think the owner of this school posts in here. I love Bangkok and lived/worked there for years and spent a lot of time there on business outside of working there. However, for pace and quality of life, Chiang Mai is much better and costs way lower.
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Greg ********
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Nick ******
House of Taste Thai Cooking, in Bangkok. Got my DTV in 3 days (Hanoi embassy) through them. 6-month course.
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Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Nick *****
thanks 🙏 do the cooking courses offer refunds if your DTV is rejected?
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James ********
Anonymous participant where are you going to live in Thailand ?
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Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER
@James *******
originally planned Bangkok but now leaning towards Chiang Mai
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James ********
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James ********
Anonymous participant I found this cooking school in Chiang Mai
@https://www.facebook.com/cookventu***********************************
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James ********
Anonymous participant then you need to find a Cooking school course in Chiang Mai...

As you are required to attend the course. Be sure to use a course sponsor which has been successful providing the important documents needed in getting the DTV visa for its students.
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James ********
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Nick ******
Participant(e) anonyme you'd need to ask them, I really don't know.
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Greg ********
Anonymous participant You would probably need to use an agent or one associated with a school for that - they then check all your documents and application.
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Greg ********
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Andi ***********
Many do via cooking. Bangkok Cooking Academy is well known DTV compliant school.
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Andi ***********
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