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Is it easier to apply for the Soft Power DTV in Hanoi compared to HCMC, and can Laos be a viable option?

Soft Power DTV Visa Application Process Hanoi HCMC Laos Muay Thai Visa Visa Rejection Financial Requirements Remote Work Restrictions

Jan 9, 2026

4 months ago

Gregor ************

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi everyone, I’m planning to apply for the Soft Power DTV next month. I’ve found a Muay Thai gym offering a 9-month package and I meet the financial requirements of 500k.

Is there any indication that applying in Hanoi is currently easier than in HCMC? And is Laos a viable alternative to Vietnam?

I was rejected once in Austria 2-3 months ago with a different DTV option - at that time my application wasn’t very well prepared, I guess. Is that a potential deal breaker?

Thank you!😇

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user is seeking advice on applying for a Soft Power DTV visa, questioning whether an application in Hanoi is easier than in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) and if Laos is a viable alternative. They mention meeting the financial requirements and having faced a rejection from a previous visa application in Austria. Comments suggest that while HCMC is very strict, there are no clear indications that Hanoi has become more difficult. Laos is recommended as a good option for an in-person application. It's also noted that the type of visa applied for previously may not significantly affect the new application, but proper preparation of documents is crucial.

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John **********

If your different DTV option was based on workation be aware that a soft power DTV doesn't provide permission to work remotely from Thailand, and they can ask that you show how you will support yourself for the duration of the visa

4 months ago

Kurt *************

i was also rejected once before i got approved. Hard to say if it might be a deal breaker. Depends on the paperwork

4 months ago

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

3 places you mentioned. i recommend Vientiene. HCMC is super strict and always request non sense documents, Hanoi used to be easy but recently they reject many applicants without reason. Laos is great since you will get to see the embassy officer in person for an interview

4 months ago

Reply to

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

What are the best locations for applying for a DTV visa in Vietnam, Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City?

4 comments

4 months ago

Is it advisable to apply for a Thai visa at the embassy in Ho Chi Minh City instead of Hanoi due to previous rejections?

8 comments

4 months ago

What should I consider when reapplying for a DTV visa after a rejection in Vietnam?

17 comments

5 months ago