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Answered2 years ago

Can you be denied entry to Thailand even with a DTV visa?

Anonymous *************
asked Apr 25, 2025
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Dumb question here.

Have anyone experienced or heard of the immigration not letting you into Thailand even after getting the DTV visa?
Answer summary
Yes, it is possible to be denied entry into Thailand even if you hold a valid DTV visa. Having a visa does not guarantee access to the country; entry is ultimately at the discretion of the immigration officer. Various factors can influence their decision, such as your answers to their questions regarding your visit, the authenticity of your visa application, and whether you meet the set criteria associated with your visa. It is essential to understand the responsibilities tied to your visa type to lower the risk of entry denial.
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Excelle********
Excelle********
Have you used the visa yet? Or first time entry?
あなんだびんせんと ****
あなんだびんせんと ****
Some immigration officers might be more difficult than others.

I’d recommend learning local manners ( wai properly, speak at least some basic Thai ) , in order to set up a good atmosphere when you have to meet them.

Thai ( and like most I’d say ) are very appreciative of anyone making a genuine effort into trying to be learning / part of their culture.
Jon **********
Jon **********
@あなんだびんせんと ***
I agree about learning local manners, and learning Thai. I don’t agree that anyone should be wai’ing immigration officers at the airport. Thais don’t wai immigration staff, neither should you 👍
Greg ********
Greg ********
@Jon *********
Exactly. One of the most cringiest things possible is watching foreigners Wai at the wrong time and place. If you do not know how to do it correctly then do not do it was advice I have always been given. If you are meeting someone senior you will be given advice.
Anonymous ******************
Anonymous ******************
Yes most definitely
Anonymous ******************
Anonymous ******************
All visas for all counties are not a guarantee into a county. A immigration officer can refuse entry for any reason they see fit for!

And your visa can be revoked at any time either directly as a result of something you have done or a wider issue! Just look at India right now.

How likely is it? Well that all depends on who you are, what you’ve been up to
Asso ******
Asso ******
If you have a visa that is honestly acquired, you should have no reason to be concerned about this
Wannikea *********
Wannikea *********
A visa only shows the purpose of your visit. If the immigration officer isn't satisfied with your answers regarding the reason for your visit you can be denied entry.
Anonymous ******************
Anonymous ******************
Not a dumb question some people get refused yes if don't meet the criteria, DTV visa is only valid if you continue to meet the criteria set out and if an immigration officer thinks you no longer meet the criteria or can't show that you do them yes can be refused entry
Anonymous ******************
Anonymous ******************
No visa guarantees entry into the Kingdom it’s ALWAYS at the discretion of the immigration officer at the point of entry. That said, certain visa types tend to raise more red flags, especially when misused. Tourist visas and visa exemptions, for instance, can lead to issues if someone is effectively living in Thailand long-term on short-stay permits.

The most reliable and least problematic options are typically visas like the Non-B or Non-O, provided they were obtained legally and used in line with their intended purpose.

As for the DTV visa, based on the current landscape, it appears to be a safe and legitimate option for entry assuming your application was honest and submitted in good faith. For example, if you applied under the soft power route to study Muay Thai, and you genuinely attend the classes you enrolled in, there should be no issue. The same goes for the digital nomad or freelancer route as long as all documentation was truthful and not fraudulent, there’s little cause for concern.
Jonathan *********
Jonathan *********
Yes
Alex *******
Alex *******
It's not a dumb question. People with visas get refused entry into Thailand for many different reasons.

Having a visa doesn't guarantee entry
Greg ******
Greg ******
@Alex ******
Correct
Greg ********
Greg ********
@Alex ******
Exactly. The MFA make this clear on their website and in the interview a senior staff member did at the FCCT. The MFA issue the visa but it is the Department of the Interior though their Immigrstion Department have final say overcentry and extension.

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