What are the chances of getting a DTV visa after studying Thai in Bangkok and freelancing as a designer?

Question

I’m currently in Hanoi preparing to apply for the DTV visa, but after reading a lot of recent experiences, I’m starting to feel a bit unsure. Last year, I entered Thailand on a 60-day tourist visa and later enrolled in a six-month Thai language course. With the proper visa extensions, I was able to stay for a full year—all completely by the book. I’ve never done any border runs or overstayed. I even took a short solo trip to Hong Kong to visit art exhibitions with friends during that time.

I’m now applying for the DTV as a freelance graphic designer, and I have all the required documentation ready—proof of income, an extensive portfolio, and everything else listed in the guidelines. At first, I thought my clean history and the fact that I followed all the rules would work in my favor. But some of the posts I’ve come across suggest otherwise, and now I’m wondering: could studying Thai in Bangkok actually hurt my chances instead of helping them?

Ask Thailand · Answer

The original poster is applying for a Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) as a freelance graphic designer after completing a year in Thailand with a tourist and then student visa. Despite having a clean visa record and proper documentation, they express concerns about previous experiences shared online, particularly regarding the impact of studying Thai on their application. Responses from the community assure the poster that as long as their application is solid and they adhere to the guidelines, they should be fine, sharing personal success stories and encouraging them to proceed.

Nickel ******* · Answer

Just apply dude

Anonymous********* · Answer

Thank you all for being so helpful. I was trying to avoid diving into group posts because I knew I’d end up spiraling into anxiety—and surprise, hello anxiety! But honestly, the comments have been really encouraging and reassuring. I really appreciate it. I will keep you all posted.

Anonymous********* · Answer

Side note: I also regularly attend design exhibitions and fan events in Thailand—its pop culture is a huge influence on my creative process. Over time, I’ve made real friendships with Thai locals, especiall the ones  I kept seeing at the same events. We naturally became close friends. I was thinking of including a few photos to give a glimpse into what my life in Thailand looks like. But I’m unsure—should I hold back from showing how much I love the country and the life I’ve started to build there? Or would sharing a little of that help strengthen my application?

Urs ******** · Answer

Go ahead with your application with all the required documents, and you will be fine. Be sure you fill in the exact Information as in your passport.

Anonymous********* · Answer

Yeah, I’ve always made sure to do everything strictly by the book. I was never late for any visa renewals, attended all my classes, and even kept notes as proof every time I went to extend my ED visa—just in case they needed to see I was genuinely studying. Like many others here, I’ve grown really fond of Thailand and would love for it to be my home base while I explore other countries. I keep coming back to Bangkok—it’s rich in culture, full of warmth and hospitality, and it’s where I’ve built real friendships. Thanks for the support everyone means a lot.

Anonymous********* · Answer

Yeah, I’ve always made sure to do everything strictly by the book. I was never late for any visa renewals, attended all my classes, and even kept notes as proof every time I went to extend my ED visa—just in case they needed to see I was genuinely studying. Like many others here, I’ve grown really fond of Thailand and would love for it to be my home base while I explore other countries. I keep coming back to Bangkok—it’s rich in culture, full of warmth and hospitality, and it’s where I’ve built real friendships. Thanks for the support everyone means a lot.

Andi *********** · Answer

Plenty of applicants similar to yourself have got DTVS. Focus on submitting a solid application, you'll be ok.

Greg ******** · Answer

I think you will be fine. You did everything by the book. Good luck.

Adam ******* · Answer

If you are worried , you can pay an agent.  I used [mention redacted] and he helped alot.  Also Hanoi is hit or miss on people being accepted.  Try go to jakarta you will be accepted easily

Stéfan ******** · Answer

Let us know how it goes

Anonymous ****************** · Answer

Don’t worry! I lived in Thailand for over nine years on various visas and visa exemptions before applying for and being approved for my DTV.

As long as your application is solid, includes all the required documentation, have a “Strong passport” and you complete the online form accurately, you should be absolutely fine!

Don’t take too much notice of the scaremongers in this group

What are the chances of getting a DTV visa after studying Thai in Bangkok and freelancing as a designer?

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