Answered2 years ago

Is a background check required for the DTV process in Thailand?

DTV visa background check visa process Thai immigration visa requirements criminal record

James *********

asked Jan 7, 2025

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Just curious has anyone had to provide a background check during their DTV process? Or does anyone have any evidence that the process somehow included the Thai immigration pulling a background check on you? Lastly, does anyone know of a person who was denied the DTV because of a spotty background? If so, just how strict are they?

Thank you

Answer summary

The discussion revolves around whether a background check is required during the Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) application process in Thailand. Most respondents have not been asked for one, although some personal experiences suggest that having a background check available could be beneficial. The general consensus indicates that while official requirements may not specify a background check, there may still be some form of checks conducted by immigration. Concerns about how strict these checks may be, especially in relation to applicants with spotty backgrounds, are voiced but remain speculative.

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

From what I remember when I've needed to have enhanced background checks for work ( 3x now ), they need permission/consent to do this.

Sometimes you are asked to register for the check and they reimburse you, and then you provide the certificate when you get it.

Sometimes the employer will do it but you have to confirm, can't remember how I did that first time.

I believe this is to prevent any random person doing one on you, which can be abused, for obvious reasons.

From what I also remember some VISAs may require a check but again it will be down to you to request and then provide it to immigration.

2 years ago

Cissi *********

I'll start with: I'm just guessing now...

I think one can assume that they run some background checks. From what I understand, Thailands future plan to use an electronic travel authorization for visa exempt travellers will, if and when being launched, involve security screening of foreigners entering Thailand... that is the plan for people arriving without a visa and I can't imagine them not doing the same for ANY visa applicants... but as I wrote, this is just me guessing.

I highly doubt that they will ask DTV-applicants to submit police records from their home countries (unless you are a national from a country with special restrictions to obtain a visa, i.e. Nigeria).

2 years ago

Lee ***********

It's government they have agreements with lots of other governments to share information, I'm sure they would do some sort of background checks, wouldn't you!

2 years ago

James *********

@Lee **********

fair...but that being said, the last part of my post still remains unanswered. If we assume they are doing some "behind the scenes" background checking, does ANYONE on this group know of a single person who was denied based on their background?

2 years ago

Lee ***********

@James ********

they wouldn't tell you that, you haven't mentioned why your so concerned!

2 years ago

James ********

@James ********

we have NO REPORTS of any background check ✅ being made as part of the Thai DTV Visa Application process by Thai Embassy's and Consulates.

IF it was required, it would have been listed as a required police clearance report to be submitted with the application. NO SUCH REQUIREMENT EXISTS.

It's usually required with a few types of Thai Visas (teaching). BUT when it is, it's clearly spelled out in the requirements for the visa.

2 years ago

James ********

@James ********

again I say... we have no reports of any police clearance reports being required for the DTV visa. Period 🩸

IF you are paranoid about them getting a police clearance report on you... then possibly it's wise to stay where you are now.

Sorry but that's all I can say to you.

And the proposed ETA coming in 2025 has not clearly stated its process. Other than it's designed to prescreen those seeking to enter Thailand Visa EXEMPT ENTRY.

2 years ago

James *********

@James *******

thank you! Can you address the nuance mentioned by other commenters regarding "maybe you don't have to submit a report, but the Thai immigration could be running their own report (Interpol or whatever) without mentioning it." See the comment by

@Cissi ********

"I think one can assume that they run some background checks. From what I understand, Thailands future plan to use an electronic travel authorization for visa exempt travellers will, if and when being launched, involve security screening of foreigners entering Thailand... that is the plan for people arriving without a visa and I can't imagine them not doing the same for ANY visa applicants... but as I wrote, this is just me guessing."

Any thoughts on this?

2 years ago

Greg ********

Never heard of anyone being asked for a background check for DTV. Employers can ask for it and I think the likes of PR applications etc.

2 years ago

Steve ***************

Although not asked for, as I have a copy of criminal record search because I'm a British passport holder with an American journalist visa, I supplied it. No comment was made by IO.

2 years ago