Answered12 days ago
Is it viable to use the soft power DTV visa for long-term stays in Thailand?
Soft power long term usage
Hello,
I've been on a soft power DTV for about a year now, I've been in an out of the country maybe 5-6 times in this time and I've had no problem, I've never been questioned in the airport but there's always the doubt in my mind if I will be allowed into the country.
My course is ending soon so I was thinking what is the overall thoughts on soft power users here that are planning to stay longer in Thailand. I know there are no clear rules regarding what's and what's not allowed.
I was thinking about signing up for a smaller Muay Thai course once the one I'm doing expires so I have something to show if they ever ask at immigration.
But my question is more regarding the viability of using the visa as a longer term option. What do people think about using a soft power DTV let's say on the 3rd-4th-5th year?
Has anyone who's had it for a longer time (let's say the people who's had a dtv from the very beginning) have had any issues at immigration with a soft power DTV?
I'm just asking because I'm honestly enjoying Thailand and I'd like to see if the dtv would be an option to stay here for a few more years or maybe consider a different visa.
Hello,
I've been on a soft power DTV for about a year now, I've been in an out of the country maybe 5-6 times in this time and I've had no problem, I've never been questioned in the airport but there's always the doubt in my mind if I will be allowed into the country.
My course is ending soon so I was thinking what is the overall thoughts on soft power users here that are planning to stay longer in Thailand. I know there are no clear rules regarding what's and what's not allowed.
I was thinking about signing up for a smaller Muay Thai course once the one I'm doing expires so I have something to show if they ever ask at immigration.
But my question is more regarding the viability of using the visa as a longer term option. What do people think about using a soft power DTV let's say on the 3rd-4th-5th year?
Has anyone who's had it for a longer time (let's say the people who's had a dtv from the very beginning) have had any issues at immigration with a soft power DTV?
I'm just asking because I'm honestly enjoying Thailand and I'd like to see if the dtv would be an option to stay here for a few more years or maybe consider a different visa.
Answer summary
The discussion centers on the use of the soft power Education and Training visa (DTV) in Thailand, exploring its long-term viability for expats. The original poster shares their experience over a year of using the DTV, raising concerns about border control and whether they can continue using this visa type for several more years. Community members suggest actively engaging in courses to support visa status and discuss potential issues at immigration, emphasizing that maintaining proof of ongoing activities is crucial to ensuring smooth entry into Thailand.
58 repliesnewest first
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Josephine ********
Sawadee, I live here long time and see many DTV soft power friends. Your travel pattern of five or six entries in a year is normal and airport usually does not ask much if your visa is valid. For long term use the key is you keep real activity, so when course ends you should have new course ready to show.
Many people who got DTV from start now are in year two and still pass fine, but they keep receipts, class photos and new sign up letter. Idea of smaller Muay Thai course after main course is good, it shows you still learn. Immigration may ask at some entry on year three or four, so have proof in phone and paper.
You could consider reading a book or two before your trip. I’d recommend Unlock Thailand by Isla Rey on Amazon, it includes all the info and insights you need. You should check it out. A very good companion 👌.
Many people who got DTV from start now are in year two and still pass fine, but they keep receipts, class photos and new sign up letter. Idea of smaller Muay Thai course after main course is good, it shows you still learn. Immigration may ask at some entry on year three or four, so have proof in phone and paper.
You could consider reading a book or two before your trip. I’d recommend Unlock Thailand by Isla Rey on Amazon, it includes all the info and insights you need. You should check it out. A very good companion 👌.
Jon **********
I have medical soft power and I just make sure to have one appointment booked every time I enter.
Jon **********
I have medical soft power and I just make sure to have one appointment booked every time I enter.
Manuel ******************
Khan ********
Following
Hakuna ********
As long as you're still enrolled, you're fine. Just carry proof when you travel: current enrollment letter or receipt from the school. It's re-entering after the course ended that can get questioned.
Barnabas *********
@Hakuna *******
No need to be continuously enrolled upon a qualifying cultural course. DTV is a tourist visa, obviously valid for touristic purposes.Hakuna ********
@Barnabas ********
Of course yes, you need to be enrolled.ElegantKa**********
The problem isn't just with attending the course or having 500k. Both those things have gotten people denied entry already. The problem is your stamp history. If you're spending more then 6 months a year multiple years in thailand they will see it as living and it's already been stated that the dtv is not intended for living in thailand, just tourism.
ElegantKa**********
The problem isn't just with attending the course or having 500k. Both those things have gotten people denied entry already. The problem is your stamp history. If you're spending more then 6 months a year multiple years in thailand they will see it as living and it's already been stated that the dtv is not intended for living in thailand, just tourism.
Adam *********
ElegantKangaroo6467 'The problem isn't just with attending the course or having 500k. Both those things have gotten people denied entry already'. Not true. No verifiable reports. 'If you're spending more then 6 months a year multiple years in thailand they will see it as living and it's already been stated that the dtv is not intended for living in thailand, just tourism'. Not a problem. No verifiable reports.
ElegantKa**********
Adam Adamant I won't do the due diligence for you, but there are multiple reports from phucket airport and a recent one at Suvarnabhumi Airport. Not posted anonymous.
Barnabas *********
ElegantKangaroo6467 Nobody with a DTV has been denied entry for not attending their qualifying cultural courses or for not currently possessing 500,000 THB. There are no requirements relating to either. There isn't and cannot be any problem with spending up to 180 days per stay in Thailand. Doing so is in accordance with the stamp in your passport. Talking of passport stamps, have you ever seen the 'denied entry' one for the people you claim to have already been denied entry?
Mairtín **************
ElegantKangaroo6467 true, but if it’s intended for tourism why does it last so many years. It’s obvious people use it to live here and have successfully done so already
Locked ********
@Mairtín *************
yea it's not like remote workers don't live here. NahElegantKa**********
@Mairtín *************
the dtv was made under a different government and didn't go through immigration. The new government is increasing scrutiny and enforcement across all levels of immigration and policy especially relating to foreigners. Thailand is always changing so its good to be ready.Adam *********
ElegantKangaroo6467 Not necessary to be 'ready'. The only reports of anyone experiencing difficulties appear to be trolls!
Barnabas *********
You enrolled upon a 12 months course 12 months ago? That was unusual. You have an enduring fear of being denied entry. The lack of 'clear' ongoing rules troubles you. You then move on another 12 months to concern yourself with years 3, 4 and 5. Asking whether DTV holders now into their 3rd year have experienced any 'issues at immigration with a soft power DTV?' Finally, suggesting that your 5 year DTV may not be good for 5 years after all and you might need to seek a different visa. Someone preoccupied with so many concerns that they feel they need to share with others for reassurance shouldn't be away from their home country and readily accessible psychiatric treatment.
Barnabas *********
You enrolled upon a 12 months course 12 months ago? That was unusual. You have an enduring fear of being denied entry. The lack of 'clear' ongoing rules troubles you. You then move on another 12 months to concern yourself with years 3, 4 and 5. Asking whether DTV holders now into their 3rd year have experienced any 'issues at immigration with a soft power DTV?' Finally, suggesting that your 5 year DTV may not be good for 5 years after all and you might need to seek a different visa. Someone preoccupied with so many concerns that they feel they need to share with others for reassurance shouldn't be away from their home country and readily accessible psychiatric treatment.
DTV***
OP@Barnabas ********
maybe you are projecting your own issues mate. I'm just asking a valid concern to see what is the overall thoughts of other people. Go ragebait your mom.Barnabas *********
DTVerr Non-current cultural courses and the fear of being denied entry is wearing thin now. Can you come up with something new to troll us with?
JoyfulRei*********
@Barnabas ********
you clearly aren't paying attention to what's happening with DTVs. Why are you even here? This poster has valid concerns as the rules have been changing drastically.
Barnabas *********
JoyfulReindeer3586 Yourself and the OP being the same troll?
THAI ******************************
If you worry about entry you also can arrange safe entry services with prescreening from a trusted agency.
Christian *******
@THAI *****************************
do you offer membership for frequent flyers its a bit expensive for those of us that fly multiple times a month
HumbleCate***********
@THAI *****************************
price for dtv safe entry?
krazye******
HumbleCaterpillar6452 i was quoted 6k
THAI ******************************
HumbleCaterpillar6452 At the moment around 6,000 thb
THAI ******************************
StunningPhoenix7732 Per pre-screening + arrival escort (not multiple).
StunningP**********
@THAI *****************************
6000bhat. Price of each entry or annual?
Kieran *******
HumbleCaterpillar6452 they’ll never post it here! But please share if they ib you 😁
Leonard ********
I book monthly physiotherapy because it actually benefits me ... muay thai and cooking classes im not really interested in. I ensure my clinic is officially registered with a Bangkok clinic and book my session in 6 monthly slots
Za *******
@Leonard *******
that is ok as long as your DTV is based on medical treatment. However your DTV is based on Muay Thai or cooking, if you get questioned by Immigration, you will might run into difficultiesAdam *********
@Za ******
How do you know this?Za *******
Adam Adamant what did you think? You thought that after you get the visa you can do whatever you want for 5 years?
Wela **************
@Leonard *******
yes, please inform me about this physiotherapy course. Thank u 🙏
Sean ****************
@Leonard *******
explain how this work please mate?
เดวิด **********
There was no stipulation to do a 5 year course and it’s almost impossible given it’s a tourist visa but there’s no doubt they’re targeting soft powers
Anonymous ******************
I see it like this: If you enter the country without being actively enrolled in a course that qualifies you for the visa, it is not unreasonable to expect to be refused entry at the border.
Barnabas *********
Anonymous participant 223 As you said, that's your opinion. There are no reports of any DTV holders being denied entry because they aren't currently enrolled upon a qualifying cultural course. Neither are there any reports of denial of entry due to non-current employment or contracts for remote online workers.
Knowledgeab***********
@Barnabas ********
Yes there is, yesterday a guy from Spain got denied at the the Airport yesterday, on DTV, course was finished. IO gave him two choices, either book his i or a flight now or be locked up in detention.Barnabas *********
KnowledgeableKoala9484 You believe troll stories?
Angelo ***********
@Barnabas ********
There are plenty of such reports. You are misinformed.Barnabas *********
@Angelo **********
'There are plenty of such reports'. Have you ever seen a denied entry stamp?
RadiantPe*********
@Barnabas ********
Just read a post in this group of someone denied entry early this morning (5am). He was not enrolled in more Muay Thai classes since his finished, and no 500,000baht in the bank. Go see for yourself.
Luit *****************
RadiantPeacock3639 and Expatsiam✈️,
@Barnabas ********
is a troll here already banned a few times but creating a new profile every time again, just ignore and block.Barnabas *********
RadiantPeacock3639 I've seen it thank you. As usual lengthy, contains certain familiar words and all ingredients. On a couple of previous occasions of 'denied entry' reports photos of the stamp were requested. None were ever supplied.
Expat******
Barnabas there are posts about entry denial for either low on funds or not enrolled further on soft courses) there was a post today, some Spanish guy turned around at BKK). Obviously it’s a point of contention for the feds to review the soft criteria.
Barnabas *********
Expatsiam✈️ Which post are you talking about? Posting about numerous entries with no issues doesn't call for verification. It's anonymous reports about 3 hour interrogations, being locked up in the airport detention centre, denial of entry and DTVs being revoked that need verification. Why should anyone who obtained their DTV on the strength of a one month course (for example) be more concerned than anyone who applied via the workcation route? Both are equally valid. Stating otherwise is your opinion only.
Expat******
@Barnabas ********
The post is not 'verified' as nothing is on Facebook, but it wouldn't be surprising if they are focusing on stats with soft aspects of the program given its clear that course duration and the 5 year validity is totally unbalanced.
Anonymous ******************
@Barnabas ********
That Spaniard is a f.a.k.e profile of a mexican opera singerBarnabas *********
Expatsiam✈️ Never seen any verifiable reports where entry has been denied purely for not currently being enrolled upon a qualifying cultural course or currently unemployed or out of contract for remote online working.
Likable********
Any good packages in Thailand for people who already got the DTV?
Greg ********
Talk to the gym. I've heard Gym owner mentioning before having a 6-month or yearly membership scheme for after the initial approved activity completed.
Greg ******
Continue attending classes and make sure you can prove it as there are more and more reports of this being checked at the border.
David ********
I keep training Muay thai. Good for health and have an active soft power activity
Andi ***********
Great idea to be signed up for some lessons before entry. You will be ok with evidence of your activity.
Darren *******
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