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What are the concerns and experiences of DTV visa holders in Thailand regarding soft power courses?
ThailandDTV visaSoft Power visavisa rulesimmigrationexpatsremote work in ThailandMuay Thai courseslong-term stay in Thailand
Dec 12, 2025
5 months ago
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTERThe risk of a soft power DTV application is getting too much. We need clear rules on what is allowed and what isn’t. People on here guessing or saying how it ought to be is all well and good, but without official rules we’re all clueless about the validity of this 5 year visa based on soft power courses
TLDR : Answer Summary
A discussion has emerged regarding the uncertainties and risks surrounding the Soft Power Digital Tourist Visa (DTV) in Thailand. Many users expressed concerns over ambiguous rules, especially related to the visa's legitimacy based on participation in soft power courses, like Muay Thai classes. Some users reported no issues with their DTV status, while others indicated potential scrutiny and confusion at immigration about continued enrollment in courses required for the visa. Opinions varied, with some urging caution and suggesting the need for clearer guidelines, while others dismissed the fears as overblown. The conversation highlights a general sentiment that the Thai immigration system lacks transparency, leading to anxiety among expats regarding their status and the conditions of the DTV.
DTV VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
- Take the basic DTV Qualification Test to see if you're eligible for the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV).
- For immediate assistance, contact Thai Visa Centre directly via LINE at @ThaiVisaCentre or Email them.
- Explore recent discussions by using the DTV Visa tag in the search box at the top of the page.
- Join the Thai Visa Advice Facebook Group to ask your questions, and get advice from others.
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Jim ********
Can’t see the issue myself 🤷♂️
Matt ********
Just read the rules of your visa type, it’s not rocket science for gods sake, the rules haven’t changed
Anonymous ******************
Love it.
Jason ********
The internet is a toxic frenzy of negativity. Calm down, you’ll be fine. You’re focusing on the few denials and not the millions that are entering easily.
Paul *******
I have soft power it works perfectly for me and others I know.
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Paul ******
how many times have you re-entered after your course has expired?Paul *******
Anonymous participant I never said I had a course or anything had expired I got mine early so I have re entered several times hope that helps.
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Paul ******
well no honestly 😅 but thanks anywayPaul *******
Anonymous participant sorry it not helps but every time I enter they just smile stamp me in for 6 months no questions.
In the past before DTV I had more issues.
Best of luck anyway.
In the past before DTV I had more issues.
Best of luck anyway.
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Paul *******
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Jamie ********
Always going to happen. Way too many agencies jumping on the bandwagon selling it as a dodgy service. Wouldn't suprise me if it's cancelled soon and everyone is thrown under the bus. Reminds me of the volunteer visa they pumped out years ago that was 'highly illegal' 😅
Ja *********
Jamie Fisher it's happening soon spoke to a well connected old school..guy who deals with retirement visa's ...big clamp down coming shortly...people with DTV are next in line ...soon be banned from thailand...
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Ja ********
source: trust me broReply to
Anonymous *************
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PJ *********
Are you being paid by china or Cambodia to run Thailand down 👎👎 keep people out of Thailand spreading gossip
Not being rude or distrepect anyone 🙏🙏
Not being rude or distrepect anyone 🙏🙏
Anonymous ******************
I dont understand why people wouldn't just use a visa agent and get a none o visa, it isn't hard and cost 29k, I got mine 3 days ago.
Jeremy ***********
Anonymous participant 770 not everyone’s old nor married to a Thai.
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Jeremy ***********
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Anonymous ******************
*****
铢白扔了。。。只用了一年。。。还不算其他办理成本。。。如果租房买车了，那损失更大。。。John ******
I’ve never been asked to show funds on visa exempt, tourist visa or DTV. People having this problem probably wear pajamas and flip flops at the airport and otherwise look like a bum.
Anonymous ******************
@John *****
既然你现在这么说了，那么下一次你就很快会被查了。。。。你的运气用光了John ******
Anonymous participant 932 bum
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John ******
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Mark *****
Delusional if anyone thought they were getting a 5 year visa no questions asked without any further checks especially proof of income.
Justin ********
Mark Son Softpower has no income anything involved in the application
Salvator ********
Mark Son Yes, maybe they ought to streamline the necessary periodic checks on income and funds for dtv holders to avoid problems and delays at the border.
Jamie ********
Mark Son exactly my thoughts soon as I started seeing agencies jumping on it
Jack ****************
Mark Son I mean this is really what most of the so called scammers and criminals they are meant to be cracking down on will be using.
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Jack ****************
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Wannikea *********
I guess the previous 100,000+ DTV approvals were just plain luck?
Anonymous ******************
@Wannikea ********
that was baitReply to
Anonymous ******************
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Anonymous ******************
This is exactly why I did remote worker DTV, not soft power.
“Why are you in Thailand”
Me (responding in Thai): “I love Thailand, and my girlfriend is Thai, and I work online. And Chiang mai is so beautiful.”
Done.
I know that many people selected Muay Thai or whatever reason, but if that’s the case then of course immigration will have questions.
I’d encourage anyone getting this visa to do the remote worker option. I suspect that they’ll be cracking down on everyone doing the soft power options that aren’t actually doing what they said they’d be doing (ie Muay Thai or cooking or whatever).
“Why are you in Thailand”
Me (responding in Thai): “I love Thailand, and my girlfriend is Thai, and I work online. And Chiang mai is so beautiful.”
Done.
I know that many people selected Muay Thai or whatever reason, but if that’s the case then of course immigration will have questions.
I’d encourage anyone getting this visa to do the remote worker option. I suspect that they’ll be cracking down on everyone doing the soft power options that aren’t actually doing what they said they’d be doing (ie Muay Thai or cooking or whatever).
Ivan ************
I'm not sure immigration can see what category DTV you have. I got it for remote work but it doesn't mention that anywhere on the visa.
SincereG********
Anonymous participant 623 foreigners sign up for classes to get the visa then never show up to actually learn anything .
Khun ******
Have another pint of bitter fellas and relax.
Marcus ********
It’s because a lot of people abused the system by choosing soft power. Signed up the course to get their DTV approved and bye.. actually that’s a loophole.
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Marcus ********
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Peter *****
When I applied for the DTV, I remembered that there was something mentioned about needing to resubmit documents yearly, things like proof of income, money in account, etc. Do anyone have the experience of being informed to do the updating of these?
Jason ********
Peter Ang just keep them on hand and if you are asked, hand them over, it’s not brain surgery
Justin ********
Peter Ang No I don't remember anything like that. There was no such thing for those applying during the first 3 months.
Wannikea *********
Peter Ang only applies to extensions in country at immigration.
Ja *********
@Wannikea ********
for now...😂😂Reply to
Ja *********
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William ***********
The rules are official and clearly spelled out when you apply for the DTV. Everytime you cross an international border you should be prepared to prove you have funds. It is normal for any immigration agent in any country to ask this question if they fell it’s necessary. It’s their actual job to weed out the riffraf.
Justin ********
William Crowthers Well it's completely insane. Keeping $16,000 in cash is a loss of more money each year in investment income than a roundtrip flights to Thailand from Europe/USA. Less abnormal countries, like say Mexico, are perfectly happy with investment account balances
Anonymous ******************
@Justin *******
Then go for Mexico?! Check what are the requirements for the Retirement visa and you'll see that's not much different. A yearly check of your bank balance with obligation to have the money for months before renewal.Justin ********
Anonymous participant 982 hah. Actually retirement visa = 0% chance of arrest and deportation. If it was available to me I'd definitely take it over a DTV, but I'm a few years shy unfortunately.
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Justin ********
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Christopher ***********
William Crowthers People are talking about different things. There is the 500,000 THB seasoned for three months. Proof of income for the previous six months and the requirement to show 20,000 THB in cash or equivalent which not only applies to Visa Exempt entries but tourist/transit and non-immigrant visas also.
Nongnuch ********
@Christopher **********
the 20,000 THB cash proof only applies to "touristic" entries (visa-exemption, tourist visa and DTV). It does NOT apply to Non-Imm Visaclass holdersNongnuch ********
@Christopher **********
this is not what Section 12 says. This is not officialNongnuch ********
@Christopher **********
you are actually contradicting you own claim . . . "staying on tourism purpose". . . someone on a Non-Imm-Visaclass is not a tourist 😊Christopher ***********
@Nongnuch *******
I’m really not making any claim whatsoever. Those two images aren’t of my doing, I got them from other posts. Just interesting, that’s all.Nongnuch ********
@Christopher **********
surely you are making a claim. Or how shall we interpret your comment? Is this not a claim?Christopher ***********
@Nongnuch *******
Two examples; (one a notice board and the other guidelines for immigration officers) both refer to showing cash being a requirement for non-immigrant visa holders. Are you saying both are now out-of-date? Or, as you mention the word ‘official’ that either (or both) never applied? Both ‘typos?’. More importantly, if someone with a non-immigrant visa/extension was asked to show cash and couldn’t, are they on good ground by insisting there is no such requirement? Is that what you would do in their position?Nongnuch ********
@Christopher **********
under number 1 it says "tourist purpose" , so HOW could number 2 be correct? Non-Imm-O holders are no tourists. Number 2 mentions holders of Non-Imm-visa, and this is 100% wrong. . . . . . It only affects holders of TOURISTIC entries (either on a tourist visa or visa exempt or on a DTV -which also is a tourist visa type). . . I blame all this rubbish in bad English posted by Immigrations or by agents for the confusionReply to
Nongnuch ********
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Fa**
No one has confirmed this.
Alex ****
The rule is simple:
Workcation and Soft Power must have a real reason, supported by real documents.
For Soft Power, it’s very easy — just make sure you have your own course, it is paid for and up to date.
For Workcation, if you have already been working remotely from Thailand for a long time (for example, from a laptop on the beach), immigration may deny entry if your reason is not strong enough or if you don’t have proper documents. In that case, you can follow the same approach as Soft Power: enroll in a course, pay for it, and present this reason and the supporting documents — and you should be good to go.
Workcation and Soft Power must have a real reason, supported by real documents.
For Soft Power, it’s very easy — just make sure you have your own course, it is paid for and up to date.
For Workcation, if you have already been working remotely from Thailand for a long time (for example, from a laptop on the beach), immigration may deny entry if your reason is not strong enough or if you don’t have proper documents. In that case, you can follow the same approach as Soft Power: enroll in a course, pay for it, and present this reason and the supporting documents — and you should be good to go.
Johnny *******
Alex Ni absolutely false statements. You have no idea what you’re talking about
Peter *****
@Johnny ******
I beg to differ. Alex Ni explained it correctly. I am here with a workcation DTV and he is 90% correct. I still have apartments in 3 countries even though I am in living in Thailand 75% of the time now. Hopefully, I can handover all and go for a retirement visa in another year or two. For softpower, I have been wondering why a 5 year DTV is issued for a 6 month course. After completing the 6 months course, these foreigners are going to stay for the next 4.5 years on the same DTV? I believe this is why the Thai immigration is checking on, if these people are not able to show proof of income, how are they going to support their living here? Work illegally or other even greyer areas?
Alex ****
You have no idea who you are talking to or who has more experience.
Next time, when you are at the airport, at least try to speak with an immigration officer and ask for options directly from the person in authority. Their opinion is the most relevant in this situation.
If you don’t like the fact that a workcation reason may require paying for Fast Track or using Soft Power course documents to ensure entry, I don’t like it either. However, immigration will clearly explain that you are not welcome to work in Thailand full-time for five years.
This visa is essentially the same as a tourist visa, just with 180 days per entry. Immigration may tell you to return to your home country or to work online from different countries, not only Thailand.
If you stay 180 days and then repeatedly re-enter Thailand every 180 days, be prepared for hard interviews, strict document checks, and the possibility that one day you may be denied entry. In that case, immigration will explain what you need to do to pass next time.
This is not your home country. This is Thailand.
Next time, when you are at the airport, at least try to speak with an immigration officer and ask for options directly from the person in authority. Their opinion is the most relevant in this situation.
If you don’t like the fact that a workcation reason may require paying for Fast Track or using Soft Power course documents to ensure entry, I don’t like it either. However, immigration will clearly explain that you are not welcome to work in Thailand full-time for five years.
This visa is essentially the same as a tourist visa, just with 180 days per entry. Immigration may tell you to return to your home country or to work online from different countries, not only Thailand.
If you stay 180 days and then repeatedly re-enter Thailand every 180 days, be prepared for hard interviews, strict document checks, and the possibility that one day you may be denied entry. In that case, immigration will explain what you need to do to pass next time.
This is not your home country. This is Thailand.
Johnny *******
Alex Ni you’re just making things up. All your statements are baseless you idiot
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Johnny *******
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Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTERAlex Ni we know this. Problem is you get a 5 year visa for a 6 month course and no one can agree if the visa should/would be honoured for the 5 years
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Anonymous *************
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Anonymous ******************
people here want to believe their 300$ paper from Vietnam will protect them against money hungry officers for 5 yrs🤣 they need to eat
you know much to pay for be immigration officer in big airport. or police patong ? use your head
you know much to pay for be immigration officer in big airport. or police patong ? use your head
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTERAnonymous participant 395 use your head and write a coherent sentence
Anonymous ******************
Anonymous participant dont shoot the messenger👍
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Anonymous ******************
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Around *************
Check your source. The poster has 11 friends and the story doesn't add up.
Daniel *********
@Around ************
to be fair I’ve seen multiple stories involving Phuket airport at the moment on different platforms. Looks like someone at Phuket airport is cracking down and making everyone follow the exact rules. Either that or they’re not a fan of the super peak season and are acting out.Either way all people reporting is that they’re being asked to prove they’re following the conditions the visa was granted under. I don’t really see why someone would lie about that.
Justin ********
@Daniel ********
These are not "CONDITIONS THE VISA WAS GRANTED UNDER", so your comment makes 0 sense. No one who signed up with cooking lessons or for a doctor's appointment can logically be doing that when they enter 4 years later. The visa was granted for 4 years.Daniel *********
@Justin *******
yes they were, for example there are conditions that you had money. The visa is also issued based on the person doing Muay Thai. But tell me exactly where am I wrong?Justin ********
@Daniel ********
Exactly that I *had* money, those were application time requirements. Thailand has other visa types that have financial requirements that are reviewed annually (maintaining a balance in the bank). The DTV didn't have any such annual review of the $16,000, as it didn't say it had this requirement. Visas that do, clearly spell it outDaniel *********
@Justin *******
the post mentions multiple requirements. The 20K THB is a rule for entry to Thailand in general on any Tourist visa and which is what the DTV is.*******************************************************************************************
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Daniel *********
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Around *************
@Daniel ********
the poster has 11 Facebook friends and talked about 10 people getting deported. IMHO it's as credible as Nigerian money requestsDaniel *********
@Around ************
what difference does it make if they have 11 friends when what they’re reporting isn’t anything extraordinary?Like I said I’ve seen different reports about Phuket on different platforms an above normal number of reports. People being pulled up and questioned on their first visit people put in the immigration detention room because their passport has a smudge on it.
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Daniel *********
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Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Around ************
so I should ignore that post and assume it’s fine to come and go once the course is over? Cos so many on here say the oppositeReply to
Anonymous *************
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Sefton ********
You will never have absolute clarity.. Thailand doesnt offer clarity.. they always want a grey area to use as they desire.
Deal with that or go somewhere else, its that simple.
Deal with that or go somewhere else, its that simple.
Alex *******
@Sefton *******
they love gray areas so they can ask for bribes.Reply to
Alex *******
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Steven *********
This was bound to happen, it's clear that there is a disconnect in understanding and intent between Thailand and many foreigners, far too many foreigner are treating this like some instant 5 year long term residence visa, when clearly the intent was for it to allow more ease and flexibility for nomads to visit longer, work remotely legally, or to do the soft power stuff. But watch social media and people have literally moved their entire lives, kids etc. based on this visa, which for all intents and purposes is just a 5 year multi-entry tourist visa.
Also makes sense that they would revalidate the usage and conditions every time someone reenters the country.
Also makes sense that they would revalidate the usage and conditions every time someone reenters the country.
Anonymous ******************
Steven Rostron I’ve been treating it like a 5 year visa and so far no issues. But I speak Thai and work remotely, so that helps. My friends haven’t had any issues either.
I think the problem is moreso when people apply for soft power and then don’t do the activities that they said they would do.
I think the problem is moreso when people apply for soft power and then don’t do the activities that they said they would do.
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTERSteven Rostron confusion that could easily be avoided by them giving clearer guidelines. Can’t blame folk for treating a 5 year visa like a 5 year visa
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Anonymous *************
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Callum ****************
We have the rules lol but people still wanna spread lies
Elías ********
If you were granted a visa based on a muay thai course, what's wrong with the IO trying to confirm that you're attending it? 👀
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Elías *******
because it’s a 5 year visa. Courses don’t last 5 yearsElías ********
Participante anónimo then one can tell to the officer: "I did my muay thai course already, and finished it. Now I'm just a tourist (on the DTV) for the remaining 4 years, any problem with that?"
John **********
@Elías *******
of course there's a problem with that. The reason for the visa must be maintainedAnonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@John *********
says who? You?John **********
Anonymous participant its rather obvious is it not?
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@John *********
not. Otherwise it would be stated officiallyElías ********
Participante anónimo As I said, let the IO decide. If it's not a rule or requirement, the IO would tell you're welcome to enter again, otherwise, the IO would tell you that you can't enter because your course already finished long ago.
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Elías *******
and if that guy says no then your rental that you’re still paying for remains uninhabited while you flee to another country. Great systemElías ********
Participante anónimo each country has weak visas and strong visas. Although I'm a DTVer myself (remote work, tho) I know this visa isn't strong compared to others. So the advice is, don't plan to make a life in another country while on a temporary visa (yes 5 years is still temporary compared to permanent visas).
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Elías ********
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Christopher ***********
@Elías *******
Because there is no requirement to do so. Surely you don't believe this (reposted) troll post?Elías ********
@Christopher **********
of course I don't believe that specific troll post. But what I say is that it's not out of place for an IO to check you still fulfill the requirements of the visa you have. I mean, they've done it all the time with other types of visas too.Reply to
Elías ********
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Wayne ********
Never had an issue entering Thailand. I was last there in April 2025 and it took about 1 minute to clear customs.
Anonymous ******************
Wayne Clarke Things are changing very quickly here in Thailand. Since you don’t even hold a visa, there is clear evidence of a crackdown on tourist exemptions, and no one here will go against it, as it is widely covered by the media.
Wayne ********
Anonymous participant 982 I guess I will see on my next visit. I'm not worried at all.
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Wayne ********
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Alex *******
Wayne Clarke you never have a problem until you do. Past experiences are not predictive of the future. I learned this here
Christopher ***********
Wayne Clarke Agree. Do you have a DTV?
Wayne ********
@Christopher **********
Nope just an honest traveler with plans in retiring to Thailand soon.Reply to
Wayne ********
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Anonymous ******************
If you wanna be 100% certain you will be let in the country each time then marry/ be 50 years old and get a non-o, other options are all transient lol
Ja *********
DTV Doomed soon...
Christopher ***********
Can't believe most of the comments on this, a reconstituted (repost), of a troll post. Our friend is certainly having a good laugh!
Anonymous ******************
Not a problem , especially if it kicks out the Russians and Israelis
Anonymous ******************
Anonymous participant 407 they might be spending more than those chang-imbibing western oldtimers whose pensions barely cover a proper buffalo treatment nowadays
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Anonymous ******************
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Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTERSingle entry visa only gives you 3 months
Dan *********
I have DTV
And travel frequently out to nearby countries for leisure.
I drive over to Laos a lot
Never have any problems or questions
Guess they don’t like some peoples face or something lol
And travel frequently out to nearby countries for leisure.
I drive over to Laos a lot
Never have any problems or questions
Guess they don’t like some peoples face or something lol
Peter ******
@Dan ********
did you do so in the past 2 weeks since they toughened the rules significantly december 1Dan *********
Peter Lund and then I went to bkk and flew to Indonesia and came back two days ago. Again no issues
Dan *********
Peter Lund I did. I just drove into savanakhet after Dec 1 and back from Mukdahan about 3 days later
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Dan *********
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Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Dan ********
lol racism 🙃Carlos *********
Participante anónimo unfortunately there is a lot of that too
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Carlos *********
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Aso *****
The poster is lying and he's from India, he didn't had money on his bank account. Thai people are only cracking down on Indians and low valued people.
Anonymous ******************
@Aso ****
what defines low value peopleChristopher ***********
@Aso ****
It's a troll (repost) post. Not a grain of truth in it.Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Christopher **********
the truth is the rules are unclearReply to
Anonymous *************
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Anonymous ******************
@Aso ****
So he's lying but government is cracking down on him... Choose a side?!Reply to
Anonymous ******************
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Cesar *******
This is the person who "just arrived to Phuket". A nobody. And you, guys, shame on you all for starting a discussion around this non-topic.
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Cesar ******
it’s not a non topic. If the rules aren’t clear there will always be doubtChristopher ***********
Anonymous participant No doubt about your reposted troll post!
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Christopher ***********
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Gazzy *******
Expecting to not get asked is plain silly. It’s a 5 year visa - also silly for a Muay Thai course. Many people expecting to get it and then keep coming back for something that maybe lasts months not 5 years - daft concept
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Gazzy ******
then they shouldn’t have allowed a soft power DTV. Who’s doing a 5 year course??Gazzy *******
Anonymous participant not to expect to show proof you are still taking part in activities is a bit daft when that’s what it’s for - people seem surprised - a 5 year visa - you got in on a course but I cannot understand people who think you would have to prove continued participation.
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Gazzy ******
they should state that as a rule then. If they explicitly told us we must always be enrolled in a course there wouldn’t be a problemGazzy *******
Anonymous participant so you expect to sign up for a course then be allowed in and out as much as you like over 5 years without proving you are still going for that purpose? No point in arguing- you just won’t be able to.
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Gazzy ******
you’re missing the point. It doesn’t matter how you feel about what is or isn’t fair, it matters what their rules stateGazzy *******
Anonymous participant Genuine Intent: The DTV is intended for those genuinely participating in a soft power activity or working remotely. The applicant should be prepared to provide ongoing proof of enrollment to immigration officers, both during visa extensions and upon re-entry into Thailand.
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Gazzy ******
is that officially stated somewhere or you just made it up?Gazzy *******
Anonymous participant good luck
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Gazzy *******
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Anonymous ******************
Anonymous participant I don’t believe that the expectation is that you’re doing the same Muay Thai course for the whole 5 years. I’d argue that the expectation is that you must be engaged in some sort of soft power activity each time you enter Thailand under a soft power DTV. If you aren’t, then you no longer meet the conditions of the visa.
I do disagree with the notion that the DTV is intrinsically safe for people trying to live in Thailand for the whole 5 years since if they wanted it to be an actual long stay visa then it’d be a single entry visa and you’d be stamped in for 5 years and if you wanted to float around you’d just get a re-entry permit.
I do disagree with the notion that the DTV is intrinsically safe for people trying to live in Thailand for the whole 5 years since if they wanted it to be an actual long stay visa then it’d be a single entry visa and you’d be stamped in for 5 years and if you wanted to float around you’d just get a re-entry permit.
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTERAnonymous participant 803 the fact is it isn’t stated anywhere that you must be enrolled in a course for the entire 5 years
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Anonymous *************
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Anonymous ******************
It's so fascinating to see Negativity Bias unfold right in front of my eyes.
There are literally 100s positive posts of people having no issues getting through immigration, per 1 negative post like this, and yet you choose to ignore all of those posts and focus on the negative to distort perception and assume that that's what everyone experiencing. Wake UP!
There are literally 100s positive posts of people having no issues getting through immigration, per 1 negative post like this, and yet you choose to ignore all of those posts and focus on the negative to distort perception and assume that that's what everyone experiencing. Wake UP!
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTERAnonymous participant 873 there’s good and bad. Point is without clear rules we’re all just wishing and hoping
Anonymous ******************
You're over thinking. 10s of thousands of people if not more go through immigration in Thailand everyday, do you think most of them experience anything like the post suggest? I highly doubt that. Very few cases and yall focus on them more and spread false information, fear mongering. Negativity Bias on full display.
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTERAnonymous participant 873 of those 10,000, how many were rejected? You don’t know, none of us do. So stop with the moral grandstanding
Rogerio ******
Anonymous participant 873 if 20 people in the room and 10 got denied that's not a non trivial statistic. I don't think dismissing this person's experience is right either. Thailand rules are always changing and this could signify a tighter scrutiny on re-entries.
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Rogerio ******
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Austin *******
Yeah, they never explained it all and I ended up losing $400 and something dollars which I feel like was very deceptive
Paul ****
You need soft power course all time during the 5 years. That’s the reason why you were granted the visa.
Justin ********
@Paul ***
Oh right 5 years of going to the dentist non-stop. What a RIDICULOUS comment.Paul ****
Justin Wilson lmao
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTERJustin Wilson what you on about? They are granting year visas based on 6 month courses. If the visa is only valid for those 6 months why would they award 5 year visas?
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Anonymous *************
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Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Paul ***
not true. No official statement saying that anywhere is there?Paul ****
Anonymous participant and that’s the reason why you face uncertainty. Because you know better. Let me say it this way, follow trust me bro or the legal requirements. Your call
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Paul ***
what legal requirements? Show me them 🙏Paul ****
Anonymous participant Google them it’s all over the internet. Facebook group full of trust me bro isn’t the right place. There’s no difference between first time requirements with extensions. DTV while granted for 5 years doesn’t change requirements after first 180 days even tho not always enforced. You are supposed to follow the requirements during the 5 years process or your visa may be revoked.
Anonymous ******************
@Paul ***
Trust Google instead of the official immigration office? Yeah, that makes total sense.Paul ****
Anonymous participant 734 nobody said access first link. Google for official sources. Where does the immigration office states then that you don’t have to follow rules during 5 years visa but only on application?
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTERAnonymous participant that’s what I thought
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Anonymous *************
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Paul ****
Anonymous participant lol
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Paul ****
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Anonymous ******************
Looks like the new crackdown is only getting started. Every DTV holder seems really bothered by anonymous members sharing mixed real world experiences. Stage 1: denial. Stage 3: back to Europe. You can practice cooking on YouTube.
Anonymous ******************
Doesn’t make sense to get
a 5 year visa for a few months boxing classes. That guy have been on DTV over a year but how long was his course for?
a 5 year visa for a few months boxing classes. That guy have been on DTV over a year but how long was his course for?
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Marek ***********
ridiculous. Just make the rules clear then there’d be no issueDriving*******
Anonymous participant 923 that's what they do. Do want instant income, they want richer tourists. They contradict their own law. And this crack down on tourist visas? It's not about illegal workers here in Thailand. It's about their visas being neglected and they don't have income.
And if they really want to earn, why don't they just ban tourists from doing border runs and just allow them to pay extended visas in a limited time. Example, ASEAN countries 1 year other countries 2 years. And then they need to go out of Thailand after that. But why don't they do this? Because they want an instant big amount of cash. They want rich tourists.
That's why every time a friend of mine asks how to stay in Thailand longer. I always say, money is everything here if you want to stay.
And if they really want to earn, why don't they just ban tourists from doing border runs and just allow them to pay extended visas in a limited time. Example, ASEAN countries 1 year other countries 2 years. And then they need to go out of Thailand after that. But why don't they do this? Because they want an instant big amount of cash. They want rich tourists.
That's why every time a friend of mine asks how to stay in Thailand longer. I always say, money is everything here if you want to stay.
Andrew *********
DrivingBuffalo It's political games between the two sides. Not contradicting their own laws.
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Andrew *********
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Marek ************
Anonymous participant 923 yep - that was obvious from the start - thats why you should get "workaction" visa or really train something on regular basis - but many people treated DTV as new ED visa and got DTV on 1 month cooking classes :)))) so well it's not about cracking down DTV - simply thai immigration will be cracking down (sooner or later) problems they created (which is obvious overuse of visa in well stupid way) - like every typical government/goverment agency - everywhere. :)))
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTER@Marek ***********
you say you shouldn’t get it, then they shouldn’t offer it. I wanted to do a 6 month course to get it but their rules are too vague. It’s not the applicants’ faultMarek ************
Anonymous participant it is applicants fault - it's like with everything in life and law - fact you can do it - do not mean you should. Let's not use childish arguments to adults making stupid decisions. 😉
Marek ************
@Rogerio *****
yeah visa rules from the start were not clear about the topic - if visa can be revoked if soft power activity will finish - from the start - make stupid decisions get stupid prices 😉 so I disagree - it’s only applicant responsibility to make his life choices work in environment he is living in. For sure it’s not mine - and how the Thai immigration work is another story that we do not control so why bother in complaining about it?Rogerio ******
@Marek ***********
The DTV rules explicitly allow soft power activities. If immigration accepts those applications and issues visas, the responsibility clearly sits with the policy, not the applicant.Expecting people to second-guess whether a government-approved rules is “silly” isn’t realistic or fair. If Thailand doesn’t want one-month cooking courses to qualify, the fix is simple: change the rules, not retroactively blame applicants.
The government defined the pathway and approved it.
If there’s a “stupid” game here, it’s the one that was designed in the first place.
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Rogerio ******
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Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTERAnonymous participant 923 then why offer them 5 year visas? Either a 6 month course qualifies for a DTV or it doesn’t
Steven *********
There is some argument that the visa is allowed to be flexible so people can continue with their soft skills stuff, but when it's over you would leave, people are clearly using it as a way to stay first though
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTERSteven Rostron where does it state that when the course is over you should leave?
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Anonymous *************
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Andrew *********
Anonymous participant Because they whole thing was a troll by Taksin, same as unlimited 60 day visa exempts and visa/border runs. Same as legalising poker and changing drink laws. The poker law has been reversed. The drink laws have been reversed. Unlimited border runs have been reversed........
Anonymous ******************
Classic strategy: offer cheap 5 year visas so people financially and emotionally invest in long-stay Thailand plans. That way, they'll pay anything to keep coming.
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Anonymous ******************
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Wayne *******
Not being funny but from my short time visiting Thailand (12 years) I have found that rules change frequently. So often it has sometimes felt like they are doing it on purpose just to be arsey!
But if you are expecting Thai govt to be nice and help you figure a way out to stay in Thailand, you will be waiting a long time
This new PM is anti-farang. He proves it with every sinature his pen makes! He was the health minister during covid and every time there was a spike in numbers, he blamed farang even though the borders were closed and Thais were basically flouting any laws/rules and still having their pick up truck parties, card schools and whatever else
Thailand is a lovely country . . . but there are others 🤷
But if you are expecting Thai govt to be nice and help you figure a way out to stay in Thailand, you will be waiting a long time
This new PM is anti-farang. He proves it with every sinature his pen makes! He was the health minister during covid and every time there was a spike in numbers, he blamed farang even though the borders were closed and Thais were basically flouting any laws/rules and still having their pick up truck parties, card schools and whatever else
Thailand is a lovely country . . . but there are others 🤷
Alex *******
@Wayne ******
true. I remember very well when the Covid vaccines came out he wanted to vaccinate first only Thai people, he wanted to exclude foreigners in the begining. he does hate foreigners.Wayne *******
@Alex ******
Spot onReply to
Wayne *******
Reply
Mar *****
Colombia is better
Anonymous ******************
@Wayne ******
luckily he resigned, hope this will improve thingsJamie ********
Thailand has no PM
Anonymous ******************
@Wayne ******
complaining about Thai being anti-farang meanwhile voting reform and hating brown people for being there back in your ****hope.Daniel *********
Anonymous participant 630 so bold and certain of your point of view you hide 😂
Ej ****
Why are people commenting anonymously?
Wayne *******
Anonymous participant 630 I think you should learn the difference between illegal immigrants and tourists
At the same time, learn how 1 nation relies on tourism where the other is becoming a 3rd world nation due to unwanted free loaders. Hope that helps
And Im not complaining. Im merely pointing out what he did as health minister and what he is doing now that correlates 🤷
Lastly, I dont hate brown people. I take people as I find them and just to make you look even more of an idiot, I would gladly swap many of our own no marks for foreign people who are going to contribute by working and paying taxes, instead of trying to take over not only a nation, but the west, via a fictional entity 😂
These 'people' even tell us their plan!!
Only a fool argues against facts
At the same time, learn how 1 nation relies on tourism where the other is becoming a 3rd world nation due to unwanted free loaders. Hope that helps
And Im not complaining. Im merely pointing out what he did as health minister and what he is doing now that correlates 🤷
Lastly, I dont hate brown people. I take people as I find them and just to make you look even more of an idiot, I would gladly swap many of our own no marks for foreign people who are going to contribute by working and paying taxes, instead of trying to take over not only a nation, but the west, via a fictional entity 😂
These 'people' even tell us their plan!!
Only a fool argues against facts
Chris *******
@Wayne ******
But when immigrants do work they're told they're "stealing jobs".Peter *****
Chris Blunt Not if the immigrants came in legally and get to work in Thailand according to the government regulations. Do any other countries allow illegal immigrants to work? Take the Hong Kongers with BNO in UK now, half of them are working without proper permits at lower than market wages
Wayne *******
Chris Blunt But but but, what about what about what about 😆
If they are legal and not claiming benefits, oh and not running around with machetes killing little girls at dance class AND MANY MORE EXAMPLES
Oh and give the 2000s a call, they want their out of date buzzword back
If they are legal and not claiming benefits, oh and not running around with machetes killing little girls at dance class AND MANY MORE EXAMPLES
Oh and give the 2000s a call, they want their out of date buzzword back
Anonymous ******************
@Wayne ******
average gb news reader. That’s why you all need to be kicked out asap. Taking advantage of south east Asia, just like before times which is why we are in this messWayne *******
Anonymous participant 630 I did watch GB News when it first started airing. It was a breath of fresh air because it gave the right wing a media voice in a swamp full of left wing biased based medis such as the BBC in the UK (argue with that and you really are missing a few wires) and CNN in the states (along with plenty more and again, argue with that and . . . well yeah, same idiocy)
About 6 months in, I decided it wasnt for me.
So thats twice now you have presumed incorrectly about me
You're just an angry little boy who reads and listens to the side of the story you want to be true 😆
Now, as vile as you have been to my factual comment and/or your perception of me, I would still happily educate you on such things as your own region just to start you off with something easy. Then if your brain cell isnt bursting at its seam, maybe we can move on to other worthy global news topics like the middle east conflict or the Ukraine conflict that has been 60 years in the making?
PM me and make a fool of yourself privately rather than in front of the world hiding behind anonymity? 😉
About 6 months in, I decided it wasnt for me.
So thats twice now you have presumed incorrectly about me
You're just an angry little boy who reads and listens to the side of the story you want to be true 😆
Now, as vile as you have been to my factual comment and/or your perception of me, I would still happily educate you on such things as your own region just to start you off with something easy. Then if your brain cell isnt bursting at its seam, maybe we can move on to other worthy global news topics like the middle east conflict or the Ukraine conflict that has been 60 years in the making?
PM me and make a fool of yourself privately rather than in front of the world hiding behind anonymity? 😉
Anonymous ******************
@Wayne ******
and the part about taking over. Lol. You lot are the last people would should be worried about being taken over. And if they did, u deserved it. Because of you, most the world is in this mess and you whites are the last group of losers to be complaining about immigration. Go back to your holeAnonymous ******************
@Wayne ******
illegal migration makes up a tiny percentage of total migration which is being overblown. And lol most of the brown people back in your ***ho*e are there because people like you going overseas taking advantage of their resources and in this case, cheap labour, taking advantage of foreign girls and stuff. And no you are not a tourist. If you were you would stay 10-15 days and dip back to your hole. You yourself are a freeloader from a third world nation called sh8ttain. lol. The irony. I hope you gladly go back to your hole. I am from south east Asia and I am sick of you people taking advantage of the region. Go back to wherever hole you came from, whitieAnonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTERAnonymous participant 630 you can’t have a go at him for being racist then start being racist 😅
Wayne *******
Anonymous participant Exactly. I was waiting for some kind of coherent reply but that is the side of me that I need to work on! The irony and hypocrisy didnt pass me by. I wouldnt mind, I havent even voted Reform 😂
Anonymous ******************
Anonymous participant how am I being racist? Are you a white yourself? If so there is no white racism. And you need to go back to wherever u came from. Your not welcome in our region
Bruno *********
Participant anonyme 630 les thailandais ne sont pas des noirs je suppose.
Vous êtes africains ?
Vous êtes africains ?
Anonymous ******************
Bruno Dussart another faraang, no i am not black. i am south east asian
William ***********
Anonymous participant 630 mentioning you are white is being racist. We are all people. If we were all blind people would you even think about skin color.
Anonymous ******************
Participant anonyme 630 White racism doesn’t exist? 😂😂I’ve been living in Africa for 10 years and it exists. You are racist ye
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTERAnonymous participant 630 yeah you’re being racist dude.. and (thankfully) you don’t speak for SE Asia
Anonymous ******************
Anonymous participant yes I do speak for south east Asia. And no the one above is being racist. Average whites.
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTERAnonymous participant 630 you’re either trolling or dumb as a post
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Anonymous *************
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CapableC********
A lot of the time, nomads are afraid because they don’t realize they actually have rights. I can’t count how many times simply mentioning a lawyer has suddenly made problems disappear and doors open. If you applied for and paid for the visa and you have sufficient supporting evidence, you should be admitted. If you aren’t, that’s no longer a misunderstanding — it’s a legal issue.
In many developing countries, things don’t work by default. They work only when they’re pushed. Plain and simple.
In many developing countries, things don’t work by default. They work only when they’re pushed. Plain and simple.
Steven *********
You don't have any rights when it comes to immigration officers, same as other countries like the USA, it's up to their discretion to grant you entry
Anonymous ******************
CapableCelery590 you have no rights in this country if an officer doesn’t want you in that day you won’t get in specially in DMK
Anonymous *************
ORIGINAL POSTERCapableCelery590 well the rules are so vague.. if you get questioned at airport security about a soft power course that already ended you suggest threatening getting a lawyer involved?
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Anonymous *************
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Anonymous ******************
Most of it fear mongering, for 99% of us lets be honest your be fine, im on soft power, so far so good, if that changes ill switch visas its not a huge problem, no need to worry about what you cant control
Rogerio ******
Anonymous participant 203 if ur DTV visa is revoked and u lose the 400 usd fee, you might not be so stoic about it and understand how some people might look at the whole unfairness of the thing. I understand 'this is Thailand' but some people do end up getting the short end of the stick
Anonymous ******************
@Rogerio *****
yep cant go through life worrying about every little scenario, aint loosing no sleep over $400Rogerio ******
Anonymous participant 203 it's not the 400 it's the injustice of it that'll stick. But sure, aint the end of the world.
Brandon ************
@Rogerio *****
What injustice? You were granted a visa on the basis of doing an activity. If you are not doing that activity, they are free to both deny entry and/or revoke your visa.Rogerio ******
@Brandon ***********
agreed, actually i was answering it in my head to the much broader issue of how loads of people are paying the 400 usd for the visa application, asked to jump through tons of hoops and getting their visa denied. I think there's a LOT of randomness to the process, and the same might happen when verifying the visa.
This is all of course part of being in Thailand, but I'd be pissed if I know I'm legit and being denied the visa in the first place or revoked for randomness. It's their country and their right but let's not delude ourselves they are always the letter of the law.
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Rogerio ******
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Carmelito *******
Lies, what do you guys get from spreading them?
Anonymous ******************
You will never get them because Thailand thrives on that. Their whole modus operandi is murky rules that they can change whenever they feel like because they want to. Always keep control.
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Anonymous ******************
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