Is it wise to apply for a DTV visa even if I won't be in Thailand for the next couple of years?

DTV visa Thai visa requirements visa application timing expat advice immigration updates border runs Thailand visa types

Jan 28, 2025

8 days ago

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

ORIGINAL POSTER

Is it a good idea to get DTV visa pre-emptively? I will not be in Thailand for much time most likely this year or next but I do know I will be spending significant amount of time here sometime in the next 5 years and I don’t want to deal with the hassle of border runs then. I am not sure if I will be able to apply for DTV then as the program might be changed.

Would you recommend the DTV for me then?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user is considering applying for a DTV visa in advance of spending significant time in Thailand over the next five years, despite not being in the country much in the immediate future. The community responds with mixed advice, highlighting the uncertainty of immigration rules, potential changes to the DTV visa program, and implications of applying early. Some suggest that as long as one has the funds and a planned course, applying now could be beneficial despite not maximizing the visa's validity.

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Steve ********

It's getting tougher. Anyone who doesn't use the visa in the first three months will possibly see it cancelled which is 10,000 Baht thrown into the wind

7 days ago

Brian ****

A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. I think I've made myself very clear.

7 days ago

Henrik *****

Embassies recommend that you don’t apply earlier than 3 months before arrival.

7 days ago

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

If you can afford it now and have all the funds, I would recommend to do it now.

Pro: possibly still easy. Rules will get stricter

Cons: you won't make the most of the 5 years validity

Just make sure the intended flight date and the course (if applying under soft power) is within the next 3 months. Even if you don't fly into Thailand until later, I doubt immigration will check. People's lives changes all the time

7 days ago

Rich ********

I’m in the same boat as you .. but saw on another forum that you have 3 months from getting the DTV to entering the country on it .. so maybe cannot apply say 6 months ahead ..

Better check that if it is true … I’m here now for 2 months on the visa free 60 days.. same in June / July when I’m back .. the I needed DTV for 4 months plus over winter next year .. so looks like I will apply when back in the UK around September time 🤷‍♂️

8 days ago

Andi ***********

Rich Waters You have nearly 5 years from getting the visa to entering the country. You can apply in a nearby SEA country instead of going back on the UK.

7 days ago

Luit *****************

@Andi **********

But then you should not tell the truth about your planned date of entry.

When that is over 3 months, they might reject your application

7 days ago

Andi ***********

@Luit ****************

Yep, best be creative with the truth if your intention to enter is 3 plus months away.

7 days ago

Reply to

Andi ***********

Jim ********

What category of DTV?

8 days ago

Greg ********

Nobody has a crystal ball and only you can know your situation best. The situation seems still to be fluid and not settled. Just now it is becoming apparent the requirements for extensions in country. Border runs might only be getting more difficult too for those that need to complete an ETA (When/If implemented).

8 days ago

Reply to

Greg ********

Is the DTV Visa at risk of being canceled or regulated in Thailand?

36 comments

13 days ago

Is it advisable to apply for the DTV visa now and travel to Thailand for a short time before moving permanently?

3 comments

14 days ago

Can I apply for a DTV visa while in Thailand?

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a month ago