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Can I use annual health check-ups as a soft power option for obtaining a DTV in Thailand?
DTV VisaHealth ScreeningVisa RequirementsMedical Check-upsExpat Life in ThailandLong Term VisaManila ConsulateMedical Treatment Plans
Jan 18, 2026
3 months ago
Max *******
ORIGINAL POSTERHas anyone used health screening as a soft power option. I am now in my 50,s and want to get medical check ups done each year to keep on top of my health and well-being. I understand this can be done as part of a soft power options for DTV? Any first hand experience would be great and hospital recommendations also useful. Thanks. Ms
TLDR : Answer Summary
The conversation discusses whether annual health screenings can be a valid option for applying for a Thai DTV (Digital Nomad Visa). Many users suggest that simply having a yearly check-up may not suffice; instead, a comprehensive treatment plan from an accredited hospital or medical professional is typically required. There are also suggestions about alternative soft power options for the DTV, such as Muay Thai courses and cooking classes. Participants share personal experiences and insights on embassy procedures in Manila, highlighting the need for persistence and thorough preparation when applying for visas.
DTV VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
- Take the basic DTV Qualification Test to see if you're eligible for the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV).
- For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
- Explore recent discussions by using the DTV Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
- Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.
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Stewart ***********
Scream all you want it won’t get you a visa
*****
5Max *******
ORIGINAL POSTERMaybe I need to look at other soft power options. I actually need and will benefit from medical health checks but maybe not an option for DTV. What other options are there for me? Muay Thai? Any ideas? Or clubs to contact? I will be Pattaya based. Jomtien side. Thanks
John **********
@Max ******
how old are you? What will you do in Thailand?Max *******
ORIGINAL POSTER@John *********
I am 52. I am retired so will not be working. just working on fitness and healthy lifestyle. gym and sauna etc.John **********
@Max ******
then I'd suggest a retirement visa is more suitable for youMax *******
ORIGINAL POSTERAn option. Although I plan only to be in Thailand for 3-6 months each year. At a time.
Andi ***********
@Max ******
You should look into the METV - 6 month multi entry visa .Easy to get.Max *******
ORIGINAL POSTER@Andi **********
it’s only 60 plus 30 days so not long enough.Andi ***********
Max gSmith METV is 6 months, you just do a border hop to extend but you can stay 6-8 months. You can even do same day reentry. If you want 6 months stay without leaving Thailand then the DTV or retirement visa.
Max *******
ORIGINAL POSTER@Andi **********
oh ok. Homeless is a visa run?James ********
Agreed 👍
Reply to
James ********
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Andi ***********
@Max ******
Muay Thai, cooking classes are very popular SP routes. The threads will help you find a reputable DTV approved course.Reply to
Andi ***********
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Wannikea *********
You may get lucky, but honestly, yearly medical checkups can be done coming in on any visa. Your doctor would need to prepare a pretty convincing set of documents. Diagnosis, condition, monitoring, and treatment plan, follow-up, are the typical avenue.
Andi ***********
As Todd mentioned you will find several posts of approvals from MNL in the threads. The embassy is very friendly and helpful, always replied to my questions when I was thinking of applying there.
IndigoG********
Yearly check ups wont cut it anymore. Gotta have a treatment plan.
Todd *********
Yes, they have been accepted. But absolutely check in first with the intended consulate that you will use and ensure they will. Will require a detailed treatment plan from your physician, but that should be fairly easy to have them complete.
James *******
@Todd ********
Hi I will be applying for medical DTV next month in Manila. Any helpful info u get is greatly appreciated. Thank uAndi ***********
Any question you have, email them. They were the most responsive embassy when I was researching where to apply. They are very helpful.
Todd *********
@Andi **********
just got opinion, would you recommend Hanoi over Manila or vice versa? She is Filipina so it’s a considerationAndi ***********
@Todd ********
Yes and that difference can be crucial at times. I have not been to the Phillpines yet but will do so...Todd *********
@Andi **********
exceptionally beautiful. Better beaches and water. But tourism infrastructure and food somewhat lesser than 🇹🇭:)Andi ***********
@Todd ********
You not want to live there long term?.many are saying it now better than LOS in terms of cost and visa flexibility.Todd *********
@Andi **********
we are building a small footprint there for investment now. Just looking to the future. But overall, we both think Thailand is the best option now! Pretty fabulous lifestyles here! And we definitely both love it. I have permanent residency in Mexico also and lots of fabulous there, but edge to Thailand 🇹🇭🙏❤️Andi ***********
@Todd ********
My niece just came back from 6mths in Mexico and LOVED it. You have a nice selection of countries to choose from which is great.Todd *********
@Andi **********
I can totally understand her!! It’s all fabulous in a different way. I also think anyone who loves Thailand is absolutely going to love Philippines and Mexico also. Really wonderful options for sureAndi ***********
@Todd ********
Tough one ..both are very good. For me MNL has the edge as it is best embassy I dealt with in terms of responding and they really gave the impression of wanting you to succeed. With her being Filipina is a plus too. In terms of approval they are similar.Todd *********
@Andi **********
we have used Manila before and they are indeed super diligent, respectful and speak quite good English. All bonusesReply to
Todd *********
Reply
James *******
Thank u
Todd *********
@James ******
I wish I could help. We are doing the same thing in Manila or Hanoi in May. So working on the issues and trying to ensure success. But don’t have our own definite answers yet. Keep in touchAndi ***********
@Todd ********
You not got your DTV? I thought you had it..Andi ***********
@Todd ********
You are switching from LTR to DTV?Todd *********
@Andi **********
definite no. DTV for herAndi ***********
@Todd ********
The right move as it is the best one. She will be fine getting the DTV with your know how.Todd *********
@Andi **********
I have LTR. But my partner is another issue 😂Reply to
Todd *********
Reply
Max *******
ORIGINAL POSTER@Todd ********
so this is the office in the country I am currently residing? This is Philippines. Anyone have experience of applying through Manila?Todd *********
@Max ******
yes, the country where you are residing or applying. There are Manila success stories on this site. Just search Manila in the search function. They seem to be very fast and good applications get approved.Reply to
Todd *********
Reply
Anonymous ******************
You’ll need to ask the embassy you’re applying to what’s accepted. Usually, you’ll need a long-term treatment plan from an authorized hospital, clinic, or doctor. I doubt yearly checkups would be accepted without frequent appointments.
DTV_Be*******
I doubt a once a year health appointment would be considered enough to count
Todd *********
DTV_BegPecker it would. Definitely a safer option than a six month muay thai course
Copper*******
@Todd ********
when granted the visa it doesn't say on it reason for it, mine muey thai but doesn't state it on it . Once granted it's safe regardless, IO isn't going to check on itTodd *********
CopperElk5611 good point also!
Reply to
Todd *********
Reply
DTV_Be*******
@Todd ********
1 health check a year? I am pretty sure they would give you a tourist visa instead. Six month Muay Thai require you to be in country multiple days a week, each week for 6 months.Todd *********
DTV_BegPecker i totally agree that just one check up annually is unlikely to get it done. But arranging some sort of regular maintenance and check up schedule with a physician at an accredited medical facility 'should' work. Definitely verify with the consulate he is applying at
DTV_Be*******
@Todd ********
the poster said “medical check up each year” - so I was focused on the singular appointment per yearReply to
DTV_Be*******
Reply
Max *******
ORIGINAL POSTERDTV_BegPecker thanks. Yes all useful information.
Reply to
Max *******
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