This is NOT an official government website. We are an independent resource providing information and assistance to travelers.

Do I have to live in Bangkok for the entire duration of my DTV visa program?

DTV Visa Thailand Visa Rules Living in Thailand Expat Life Visa Commitment Cultural Programs

Nov 22, 2025

18 hours ago

PastelPa*********

ORIGINAL POSTER

I have applied for DTV using Discover Thai nature for which im genuinely excited- but does this mean I have to live in Bangkok the whole time? That feels like a huge commitment - I would like to give it a try but if it doesn’t work and I want to move during the course year what happens?

436

views

likes

all likes

replies

images

users

TLDR : Answer Summary

The DTV visa does not require you to stay in Bangkok while participating in the program. Participants have the freedom to move around Thailand, and there are alternatives to the program that provide more flexibility regarding location. As an active participant, you need to fulfill your engagement in the program but can live anywhere in Thailand.

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.

Pelle Eriksson★★★★★

Absolutely Bangkok's best service I highly...

recently on Facebook

Luca G.★★★★★

I used this agency for my DTV Visa...

recently on Google

Trusted DTV Visa Agent

OVER 100,000 EXPATS SERVED

#1 VISA AGENT IN THAILAND

Thai ********************

Hi - just to add that there’s an alternative program with the same structure, but with a more varied cultural focus.

We also run one session per month, and participants can live anywhere in between sessions.

Livestreaming is a bit questionable in terms of cultural engagement, so we keep all seminars fully in-person.

11 hours ago

James ********

You've applied for the DTV visa based upon your participation in the Soft Power activity chosen.

You are expected to follow through as an active participant

14 hours ago

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

Why do you think you need to stay in one place? You’re absolutely free to move

15 hours ago

Steve ******

Sorry I can't answer your question but I am in the process of looking at a DTV so interested in what courses people are getting their DTV on. I want to know as it is a five year visa do you have to enroll in something for the five years?

17 hours ago

Jared *********

What?? No.... the visa has no restrictions on where in Thailand you go or live.

18 hours ago

Reply to

Jared *********

What documents are required for a DTV application, and must I remain in Hanoi during processing at the embassy?

3 comments

13 days ago

Can I continue cooking or Muay Thai courses in different cities after obtaining a DTV Soft Power Visa in Chiang Mai?

3 comments

a month ago