What are the benefits of applying for the DTV visa from Laos or Vietnam instead of home countries?

Question

So I keep seeing a lot of people applying for the DTV visa out of Laos or Vietnam or similar "local" places, and I'm wondering if there's any benefit to applying from these locations? If not, then why do you keep seeing it?

I've heard different offices want different things, is there a list somewhere?

I've heard different offices want different things, is there a list somewhere?

Ask Thailand · Answer

Many expats are applying for the DTV visa from nearby countries like Laos or Vietnam instead of their home countries. The main reasons include convenience for those already living in Thailand, lower costs, and proximity to Thailand for quick processing. While there may not be significant advantages to applying from these locations compared to their home country, many applicants find it easier to apply locally. However, requirements can vary by embassy, and keeping track of these can be challenging as they tend to change frequently.

PastelDac********** · Answer

Every time we started to apply for the visa while back in our home country, we found out that a requirement had changed. Our trip was already booked, so we came on the tourist visa and applied for the 30 day ext. I chose Hanoi because it was one of the few places approving people with three months of statements. That might not be true anymore but it was when I booked my flight and accommodations

Tod ********* · Answer

You have to realize a lot of people jumping on the DTV bandwagon already are in Thailand living here milking free 60 day entry stamps w30 day extensions :o :)

It's just easier for them to go to a nearby country here in S/E Asia and apply for the DTV rather than slog back to where ever it is they come from and apply thru the thai consulate in their home country

Robert ******* · Answer

The affordable price of using the Internet, low hotel cost and cheap food.

SEA is the place where they manage to survive.

Mick ***** · Answer

A lot of them have been living here long term on some other arrangement that has now run out.  They don't want to spend the funds or just have no desire to return to their home country and it is seen as cheaper or easier to just cross the border apply and wait there until it comes through. I still believe from an approval perspective you are better going back to your home country as they will likely have a better understanding of the paperwork you are submitting.

Brandon ******** · Answer

I think many of them are already local and doing border crossing.

GrayWal******** · Answer

The benefit of applying is getting the visa, I suppose that is the reason why people are doing it

Unforgettabl************* · Answer

I don’t believe there’s a list of requirements for all embassies/consulates not to mention that since requirements are still quite fluid a list would become out of date quite quickly.

Elías ******** · Answer

There's no benefit. It's just because they were living in Thailand already.

Andi *********** · Answer

The benefits depend upon your situation. Generally a lot of SEA applicants are based in the area already so makes sense to apply there then fly back  1000s of miles to USA/EU etc. Someone did post a list of differences among embassies, it may be in the threads still.

What are the benefits of applying for the DTV visa from Laos or Vietnam instead of home countries?

Activity

Related

Resources