Does anyone have any actual knowledge on how long one needs to have been freelancing before applying?
I've seen conflicting statements here:
"You have no chance applying with a "new" business"
"Need to show 6 months minimum of income"
"Need to show tax return"
"It doesn't matter as long as you can prove you're a business".
So does anyone have the real deal info on whether someone can be accepted if they started getting clients, say, 3 months ago?
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The duration required for freelancing before applying for a visa varies significantly based on the embassy you are applying to. Generally, responses indicate that 3 months might be sufficient if you can demonstrate a genuine business through a portfolio, client list, and appropriate documentation. However, requirements can differ greatly between embassies, and some may request additional proof, such as income statements and tax returns. It's advisable to consult the specific embassy's website for up-to-date and detailed requirements.
Depends from which country you apply. Simple as that
Wannikea *********
Most of what you're asking is Embassy specific, 3 months is generally enough, if you can show you have a portfolio and client list and appear genuine. A lot of it is having a brief convincing cover letter. As far as bank statements there are 2 different types, the 500k funding, and the freelance income payslips/deposits/ whatever related to your contracts/gigs. On top of that a tax return might be requested, in your case of only being viable 3 months it's moot. Again, it's up to you to provide a convincing application with a brief cover letter explaining how your situation and documents either tick off the boxs, or the reason why it doesn't.
Johan **************
I think that you've seen conflicting information because not everyone is asked for the same documents. It depends a lot on the embassy where you apply so check that website and see what documents they want from you.
I think there is no requirement to run your company for any number of years so in theory you should be fine if you meet all other requirements, especially the business proof and financial proof.
But again it is up to the embassy, they can request more docs than what is originally listed on their site.
so is there any way to know if my embassy (in my case online from England) would be happy with a few months? Otherwise its a gamble with the application fee
Greg ********
Anonymous participant The only way is to look through the posts in here for other posts if the embassy is not specific. Do not quote me but I am sure UK has approved with pretty new Ltd companies. Companies House registration and cover letter why not yax paid as yet. Good luck
Johan **************
Anonymous participant Yes, check their website and also search this group for success stories from your embassy. A few months is generally enough.
Where are you applying? Answers are embassy specific. There are DTVers with 1-3 months as freelancers. Tailor your application to the specific embassy you will apply from.
thanks. From England (online). I feel like it's a risk to pay the fee just to hear that I'm too "new"!
Andi ***********
Anonymous participant So you will be fine applying from the UK. London embassy is a friendly embassy . There are some posts from new online teachers who got approved from the Thai Embassy in London. When I first started to look into the DTV, I had similar concern to you. It was the London embassy who encouraged me to apply, telling me the limited hours I had and income were not important. I ended up getting my DTV elsewhere but London gave me the push to go for it.
Thanks Andi. Is applying online from the website the same thing as saying applying with London embassy? Does the online application automatically go to London?
Andi ***********
Anonymous participant Yea, it's the same. your online application, email inquires would be dealt with via the Thai Embassy in London. if you have to have an interview you would go to the Thai embassy In London. There is an Embassy in Hull which would cover the north.