What are the pros and cons of choosing a 6-month vs. 9-month course for a Soft Power visa application in the US?

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United States, Soft Power Course Length...
Interested to hear from those who have been approved recently for DTV Soft Power in the United States. I am deciding what school and program length to buy for a Soft Power culinary application. I'll be submitting this week to the NYC consulate. To date, I have not read a report that definitely indicated a US consulate rejected someone (or downgraded them to a Tourist Visa) because they signed up for a 6-month course instead of a 9-month course. I do understand this has become an issue at other consulates - Jakarta for example. But since I'm dealing with the US consulate system, applying in the US, I'm leaning towards deciding a 6 month course is still sufficient. Curious to have your thoughts...

Ask Thailand · Answer

The discussion revolves around whether to apply for a 6-month or a 9-month Soft Power culinary program when submitting a visa application at the NYC consulate. Insights from members indicate that while a 6-month course might still be acceptable at US consulates, there are concerns about potential issues at other locations. Participants share experiences, emphasizing that having substantial financial documentation and showing sufficient living expenses is crucial. Most participants recommend opting for a longer course to minimize the risk of denial or issuance of a different visa type.

Sinea ***** · Answer

When u re applying from ur home country than u will be fine with a 6-month course as I did 2 weeks ago here in Germany Berlin.

elkur****** · Answer

It would be great to hear from people who've applied in the US recently, especially for Soft Power, and to hear about your program length. Much appreciated.

CG ********** · Answer

Just walked my mom through dtv process. 12 months program @ Arun Thai + “visa support” by issa compass. DC embassy. Docs submitted by issa on 5/20. 5/28 visa approved.

Most important thing is that you have a FULL 3/4 months   statements showing your 15k THB balance in 1 account. For soft power, they (may) also request something showing some sort of income for your living expenses.

2nd time using issa, would always recommend.

DTV_Be******* · Answer

Also, each embassy/consulate runs independently. So if something happens via LA, it has no relevance on what will/will not happen in NYC

elkur****** · Answer

If someone in the US can comment on having been rejected (or downgraded) while applying with a 6-month program, and subsequently learning from the Embassy that was the reason -- I would love to hear about it. I have just never read such a report. Meanwhile, I remain skeptical of paying the premium for a longer course, such as those being offered by Arun.

James ******** · Answer

For the sake of 3 months, why risk being denied or issued a METV multiple entry tourist visa instead of the DTV visa?

Good Luck 🍀...

Kristiina ******* · Answer

It is not yet confirmed when they stop accepting 6 month courses, but they already have started to reject them in Asian countries or yes some issue METV, but in US and Europe there should not be a big issue with that, as they are found to be more professional with reviewing the applications for their residents. If you are looking for a culinary activity i recommend Arun Thai Cooking School in Bangkok, but i think they start with 9-month course. Their amount of classes vs the price is very good and widely accepted.

Bob ********** · Answer

It obvious you got a better chance with a 9 month course

Steven ********* · Answer

I am in the same

What are the pros and cons of choosing a 6-month vs. 9-month course for a Soft Power visa application in the US?

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