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Should I apply for the Thailand DTV as a freelancer or under the medical route for back therapy?

Thailand DTV visa freelance visa medical visa digital nomad immigration advice expat experiences soft power study programs

Jan 21, 2026

3 months ago

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

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hi everyone, I’m applying for the Thailand DTV from Hanoi and would really appreciate advice.

I’m a freelancer working with different international organisations but I don’t currently have an active contract and I don’t have tax returns (I’ve been working as a digital nomad). Most of my work is confidential so I can mainly show CV and LinkedIn.

I also recently saw a doctor in Thailand and may need some physical therapy for a minor back issue.

Given this, would it be safer to apply under the freelance route or the medical (soft power) route? Any experiences or advice would be very helpful. Thanks for any advice.

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user is seeking guidance on whether to apply for the Thailand DTV visa under the freelance route or the medical route, considering their status as a freelancer without an active contract and potential health issues requiring therapy. Various comments suggest that applying under the medical route may be difficult without documentation, while the freelance route poses its risks due to the lack of an employment contract. Recommendations lean towards exploring soft power study programs as a more viable option.

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

Sounds like you will be rejected 💯 for DTV workation category, so your best bet is softpower category

3 months ago

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

Taking taxpayers money working for the UN but do not pay tax on it? No wonder the UN is in such a state.

3 months ago

Min *******

With no active contract, the freelancer route is risky, and medical DTV usually requires strong hospital documentation.

Many applicants in HAN have better results using approved soft power study programs with clear paperwork.

3 months ago

James ********

Forget the medical DTV. Not going to happen without detailed supporting documents from the doctor and hospital.

Suggest you look at the soft power activity for Thai Nature Studies. Or the COMBINATION courses now offered of Thai language study with Thai Nature Studies.

3 months ago

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

SP would be easier as you currently have no contract of employment.

3 months ago

Reply to

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

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3 months ago

Should I apply for a DTV visa based on Thai soft power or digital nomad status as a low-earning freelancer?

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