Answered3 months ago

How do I apply for a Thai visa - should I use an agency or apply directly?

Thai visa application Digital Nomad Visa Visa agencies Direct application process Thai immigration Expat advice

Genero*******

asked Jul 25, 2026

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Hello everyone,

How did you apply did u work with an agency or directly with immigration? 

Any recommendations?

Thank you so much in advance

Much appreciated 🙏🏽

Answer summary

The discussion revolves around how to apply for a Thai visa, particularly whether to use an agency or apply directly. Many participants shared their experiences of successfully applying for their visas without an agency, highlighting the straightforward requirements and local processing by Thai embassies. One commenter mentioned a service offered by Issa Compass to vet applications before submission, which some might find helpful.

12 repliesnewest first

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RedBlueb********

I had the same experience as most people here. I applied myself, super easy...

It took a little while to hear back, but that's appears to be typical of Canberra, Australia.

3 months ago

Genero*******

RedBlueberry7135 thank you so much for taking the time to tell your story. Much appreciated have a fabulous day

3 months ago

RedBlueb********

GenerousLarry no worries at all. That's what this group is for... we all help each other, mate.

3 months ago

Christopher ***********

More information would help our experts advise you. You will be aware that there are certain application criteria. If you are confident you fully meet the criteria your need of a visa agent is reduced. Nevertheless, some applicants prefer to have their application vetted before submission. Issa Compass offer that service for 5,000 THB with a money back guarantee if a vetted application fails. Alternatively, you can choose one further free application at a different Embassy/Consulate.

3 months ago

my_comments************

All by myself. Honestly, the requirements are straightforward and based on where you apply from they try to be helpful by asking for additional documents when needed. At least my experience.

Unlike countries where they just reject you for no reason ..

3 months ago

Genero*******

my_comments_are_genuine thank you so much. Appreciate you putting in the time to write. Have a great evening

3 months ago

Christopher ***********

my_comments_are_genuine You must be talking about Digital Nomad visas because Thailand is unique in offering Soft Power applications (with the exception of medical treatment needs). Which country/countries previously rejected you without explanation?

3 months ago

my_comments************

@Christopher **********

correct. DTV through remotely work route.

I was referring to Hungary. A place I've been twice on tourist schengen visa and the third time, with even stronger documents than previous times, I was rejected for them not trusting the authenticity of my documents 😂

e.g. flight bookings was picked on while I had an actual Emirates flight booked and fully paid for. No dummy tickets.

Or my accommodation booking was picked on for it having free cancellation and a "pay at property" option. While that's just a perk I was getting from the place I booked?

3 months ago

my_comments************

@Christopher **********

They mentioned the category, it was something around yes documents and purpose of travel not being clear/real

I appealed

Then they rejected again with a letter with some specifics.

Accommodation having free cancellation was one. (Which was never an issue prior two times I've got the visa from there and entered the country with)

They picked on my "purpose of travel" so I gave them a letter with a rough itinerary plan. They said that it's not a proper plan and that I've just picked info from Internet... which yes .. I obviously did .. that's how you plan trips .. check places online and decide key places to go and it's not always 100% but ....? (I never do tours, i always plan my own trips)

Third, "applicants did not state why was hungry chosen". I mean come on, TOURISM???? regardless i had given a short letter there too mentioning I've been there before, liked it, my records can be checked, now I want to take my wife too (I've been to Europe twice already with my wife before this)

Icing on cake, "Did not prove without doubt that the financial means necessary for the trip and the stay were available"

I had $30,000 or more cash sitting in my current bank account at all times for 6 months prior to this application.... and a stable decent monthly salary.. showed proof of all that too just as I always have. Not sure what more they wanted.

3 months ago

Christopher ***********

my_comments_are_genuine They told you the category under which you were rejected but didn't state whether they considered your flight or accommodation (or both) bookings as unacceptable?

3 months ago

Elías ********

A DTV? All by myself. Do note that altought the website is for Immigration, everything (including the approval or rejection) is handled LOCALLY by the relevant Thai embassy or consulate.

3 months ago

Genero*******

@Elías *******

yes DTV. Thank you so much for your response. Appreciate you

3 months ago