Answered2 years ago

Can my involvement in Mor Lam culturally qualify me for a DTV Visa in Thailand?

Thai Visa DTV Visa Mor Lam Cultural Involvement Muay Thai Immigration

Anonymous *************

asked Mar 1, 2025

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Hi everyone,

I have a serious (but slightly funny) question. I’ve been following หมอลำ (Mor Lam) for quite some time and love going to concerts all over Isaan. I take lots of photos, enjoy the atmosphere, and over the years, I’ve even gotten to know some of the big troupe leaders personally. It’s really become a big part of my life here 🎤🎶

Lately, I’ve been wondering… would this kind of cultural involvement be enough for a DTV Visa? I mean, Mor Lam is a huge part of Thailand’s soft power, and I’m definitely committed and can proof it as well —I even thought about trying to sing and learn it myself (not saying it would sound good, but hey, I’d give it a shot!).

Or maybe I should go for the Muay Thai DTV instead? Some Mor Lam concerts do have fights on the side—planned or not—so maybe that counts as cross-training? 😆

Would love to hear your thoughts. Has anyone heard of a case like this before?

Thanks in advance! 😊

Answer summary

The user is exploring whether their deep involvement in the Mor Lam music culture in Isaan could qualify them for a DTV Visa in Thailand. They consider the importance of documentation for the visa process and joke about possibly switching to a Muay Thai DTV for easier documentation, given that some Mor Lam events include Muay Thai fights. Comments emphasize the necessity of having proper supporting documents and suggest that pursuing Muay Thai might be more straightforward.

14 repliesnewest first

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Greg ********

It woukd be really interesting but as others have said it is the documentation. Probably easier got MT route and just follow the Mor Lam as yiu would as a visitor. Used to be a few Westerners really into it on a forum I was in 20 years ago but not heard much of them since.

2 years ago

Adrian ******

As long as you can drink to excess and fight you got a chance😄

2 years ago

Biff *******

You’re not going to get any supporting documents from a registered entity that will satisfy the requirements for that really. Unless one of your contacts in that field is able to supply them. They would need to be confident that they would qualify you for DTV approval.

It’s certainly worth talking to them though. It would be an interesting journey.

2 years ago

Anonymous *************

@Biff ******

I wouldn’t mind being the first person on a Mor Lam Soft Power DTV Visa! 😆 But since I just re-entered Thailand, I still have some time to figure things out with friends here and see if something like this is actually possible.

Do you know if there’s any official site in Thailand that could help with this? Or is it the providers of these “cultural” activities (like a Mor Lam troupe or academy) who need to apply first to get official approval for offering this type of visa?

Would really appreciate any insights! 🙏

But I know already, I will slightly do more Muay Thai the next time ;-))

2 years ago

Kool *******

Anonymous participant this organization might actually be able to help you, and with your passion I am surprised you haven't contacted them already. You might possibly be the first with a soft power DTV for this. My personal preference is Mor Lam Sing

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2 years ago

Anonymous *************

@Kool ******

I’ve never heard of this organization before—maybe because my experience with Mor Lam comes mainly from my friends here in Isaan and the many concerts I’ve attended. For me, Mor Lam Sing is also my favorite.

2 years ago

Anonymous *************

@Kool ******

Thank you, I will definitely give it a try 🙏

2 years ago

Kool *******

This is good Mor Lam Sing player.

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2 years ago

James ********

Anonymous participant go ahead and try, but be prepared to lose your 10,000 Thai baht visa fee.

2 years ago

Biff *******

@James *******

I would advise them to research the possibility first. Finding an organisation that would provide the documentation would be the first step I think rather than just making an application without really knowing if it will be successful or not.

2 years ago

Biff *******

Anonymous participant it’s going to be the providers of the documentation. The other soft power options have to be fully registered and have official status with their relevant government departments. Check out some of the soft power applicant’s posts here in the group to get an idea of what’s required.

2 years ago

Meaw ************

Muay Thai is easier for the documents 😊

2 years ago

Anonymous *************

Yes, for sure — Muay Thai is the easier option. But if I’m being honest with myself, my commitment to Thailand’s soft power would be 60% Mor Lam and 40% Muay Thai.

I’m really curious whether the DTV Visa actually takes soft power seriously when they talk about it. Mor Lam is such a huge part of Thai culture, something Thailand should be proud of and promote internationally. I’d really love to get deeper into it, not just as a fan but as someone who truly appreciates and wants to understand it on a deeper level. And as I said, even want to learn how to sing ;-)

I wouldn’t mind paying the same amount as for Muay Thai if it meant I could fully immerse myself in Mor Lam.

And as I said, I’d love to do both 🙏 So I think it will be Muay Thai

2 years ago

David ********

Anonymous participant you want the visa or not. Mor lam is your passion good on you do as you like. But if you want the DTV follow what is required why make life difficult for yourself. Just because you enrol in Muay Thai doesn't mean you actually have to participate. Do your research first or your wasting your time. You are in isaan haven't herd anyone actually doing Muay Thai there. Take the route of least resistance. Good luck with you singing

2 years ago