Does learning Thai qualify for a DTV visa in Thailand?

Question

Hello,
I could really use some help on understanding the DTV visa as I’m currently confused on what is right and what is wrong.

I initially messaged a school and told them I wanted to learn Thai with the school. I said I wanted to apply for the education visa route.

A teacher at the school called me back shortly after I messaged the school and he told me that the DTV was a better visa to apply for. He explained the school would charge me 30,000 THB for the required documents plus charge me 25,000 THB for 6 months of the school.

I was not aware learning Thai could count for the DTV visa which is why I didn’t even bring it up. However, I am keenly aware that the DTV visa is absolutely better in every way and I would be over the moon if I could get it. I meet all the criteria for a DTV visa. I’m just not sure if learning Thai counts.

The teacher explained that if I am rejected for the DTV he will have me apply for the education visa instead.

AI initially told me learning Thai DOES apply under the soft power umbrella for the DTV visa but I asked it again today and it said it does not apply. Not sure what is accurate anymore.

Any advice would be super appreciated, thanks!

Ask Thailand · Answer

The DTV (Digital Nomad Visa) can be a viable option for learning Thai, but eligibility depends on the school being approved for DTV Soft Power participation. It's crucial to ensure the school can provide the necessary documentation confirming that the course qualifies as a Soft Power cultural activity. The discussion highlights concerns about the cost charged by the school for paperwork and courses, pointing out that many language schools typically handle Educational (ED) visas rather than DTV visas. Additional suggestions include exploring Thai cultural classes or events as potential components that could make an application for a DTV visa more acceptable. It’s advised to clarify all costs and DTV approval before making any payments.

James ******** · Answer

Where will you be living in Thailand?

What's your passport nation?

Where are you now ?

I♥️MyPri******** · Answer

30k for school paperwork ? The greed is stunning.

Usually learning Thai is in the Education Visa group. Still the language schools are going that way.

Consider Thai cooking for DTV, unless you're up for Muay (Boxing).

If you want to learn Thai aside...

Find another way, for sure another school. 30k 555

Elías ******** · Answer

30K including the visa itself or 30K + the visa? I think it's very expensive, as besides the visa fee itself, and the course fee, there shouldn't be other fees.

Jan ****************** · Answer

Learning Thai can qualify for a DTV only if the school is specifically approved for DTV Soft Power participation, not merely approved for ED visas. Many language schools are ED-approved but not DTV-approved, which is where most confusion arises. If the school can issue DTV-specific documentation confirming the course is a Soft Power cultural activity and has a track record of successful DTV applications, then it may work. Applying for a DTV first with an ED visa as a fallback is common, but a DTV rejection is not refundable and depends heavily on how the activity is documented and assessed by the specific embassy. Always verify DTV approval in writing before paying any fees.

DTV_Be******* · Answer

I believe what some schools have been doing, which may work, is combining Thai language with Thai cultural classes/events.  It is the cultural classes/events that might make the package eligible, not the language component.

Does learning Thai qualify for a DTV visa in Thailand?

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