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Is the DTV a physical stamp in my passport or an e-Visa?

Feb 16, 2026
2 months ago
Hello group, does the DTV is an actual 'paper stamp' in the physical passport?

> Wondering since my current passport has like 18months validity (i know i am eligible) but wondering if the DTV would just 'expire' as the passsports expires.
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TLDR : Answer Summary
The DTV (Digital Tourist Visa) is not a physical stamp; it is typically issued as an e-Visa in a PDF format. Although it used to come as a sticker, recent updates have transitioned it into an electronic version. It is valid for five years, but it is advisable to apply with a passport that has at least that much remaining validity. If your passport expires, you can carry both the old and new passports, but having to manage both can be cumbersome, so getting a new passport prior to applying is recommended.
DTV VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
Waqar ********
DTV initially started as sticker visa. Bank accounts were allowed as well. However, later they made it an evisa, more like a tourist and treat it like a tourist. Now you don't get the residence benefits.

For your case, I would recommend getting a new passport before applying. The reason is: If you get the visa on old passport, for the full validity of this visa, you have to have keep both of your passports for each trip. That becomes an added burden.
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Robert *******
The visa is issued by an Embassy as a PDF file attached to an E-Mail.

This visa is valid for 5 years.

In case you need a new passport, (lost, stolen, invalid) you caryy both passport (only IF you have the old passport) if applied for a new passport outisde Thailand and get the new entry stamp in the new passport.

You can visit the Immigration office, once in Thailand or when applied in Thailand to get a stamp in the new passport with reference to the DTV issued wiht old passport number.
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Frank-Steven ***********
No. The DTV usually comes as an e-Visa (not a paper sticker in your passport). Having said that, best to use a passport with a validity of at least the full 5 years of the DTV when applying. In theory, you might be able to still use your DTV with a new passport - by carrying and presenting both the old and the new passport. But I would avoid that.
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Frank-Steven ***********
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