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What are the differences between the DTV and soft power visas for working in Thailand as a scuba diving instructor?

Mar 27, 2025
7 days ago
Alex ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Hi πŸ‘‹πŸΌ

I am new here and starting to look into moving to Thailand.

I am a scuba diving instructor and last time I worked in Thailand, I had a visa and work permit through my employer but looking to find work after arrival in Thailand this time.

I have seen mentions of DTV and soft power visas but trying to understand the difference and what might be best for me to apply for? Thanks in advance β˜ΊοΈπŸ§œπŸΌβ€β™€οΈ
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TLDR : Answer Summary
A user, considering relocating to Thailand as a scuba diving instructor, seeks advice on the differences between the DTV visa and the soft power visa for employment purposes. Comments clarify that the DTV visa does not allow for working in Thailand, emphasizing the need for an appropriate visa and work permit to teach scuba diving.
DTV VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
Alex ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thank you everyone πŸ™πŸΌ
Wayne *********
If you want to do scuba diving as an instructor you will need the appropriate visa and work permit. You can't do that on the DTV
John **********
You can't work in Thailand on a DTV.
Alex ******
ORIGINAL POSTER
@John *********
not even as a freelance diving instructor?
Wannikea *********
@Alex *****
only remote online work, can't interact with Thai business or customers in Thailand
Anna *********
@Alex *****
not even
John **********
@Alex *****
absolutely not. You would be working in Thailand for a Thai company. You need a Non-B visa and work permit for that
James ********
@Alex *****
not allowed to work in Thailand with customers in Thailand... Period 🩸 under the DTV Visa.
Anonymous ******************
@Alex *****
Not even. You can't work at all for any thai entity.
Luit *****************