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What is the timeline and process for applying for a DTV visa in Thailand under the Soft Power category?

DTV Visa Soft Power Category TR Visa Visa Application Process Thailand Immigration Remote Work

ExcitingAs***********

ExcitingAs***********

OP

asked May 9, 2026

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Timeline for DTV application under soft power category

If I stay in Thailand for a while on a TR visa, then go to another country and apply for a DTV visa, do I still need to cancel the TR visa first?

I heard it gets auto-cancelled, but I’m worried that when I re-enter Thailand, they might question me for not having officially cancelled the previous visa.

Also, while the DTV application is being processed, do I have to stay in the country where I applied, or can I temporarily return to Thailand if I have something to do there?

I’d also like to know how long it usually takes to get a DTV visa in Hanoi. Is it true that applications under the Soft Power category take longer to process than those under the Remote Work category?

Is there a high risk of rejection when applying through the Soft Power category?

Also, in Vietnam, which Thai embassy is generally considered more flexible for DTV applications — Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City?

Answer summary

The post discusses the timeline and requirements for applying for a Digital Nomad Visa (DTV) under the Soft Power category. It raises concerns about whether a Tourist Visa (TR) needs to be cancelled before applying for the DTV. The author is also curious about the duration of the application process in Hanoi, the risks of rejection, and the flexibility of different Thai embassies in Vietnam. It is noted that applicants typically must remain in Vietnam until their application is approved.

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Mason *******

Mason *******

Ignore John all DTV holders are allowed to work remotely.

0

James ********

James ********

I've answered this when you first posted it...

But my answer has been deleted.

I'll say it again...

You must stay in Vietnam until you have the decision from the Thai Embassy or Consulate.

DO NOT LEAVE VIETNAM until the decision is known.

0

ExcitingAs***********

ExcitingAs***********

OP

I can stay in Vietnam for 30 days with free visa. What if the application process takes more than 30 days? I have to leave Vietnam and come back again?

0

James ********

James ********

ExcitingAsparagus5480 It's rare for the DTV visa application process to take longer than 30 days.

What is your passport nation?

For what purpose of the DTV visa are you applying for?

Workcation DTV or Soft Power Activity?

Where are you now?

0

John **********

John **********

Your questions imply you will work remotely from Thailand, if so you need to apply using the Workation option to legally do so

3

Mason *******

Mason *******

@John *********

Can you provide any evidence for this claim?

1

Mason *******

Mason *******

You know the old saying about opinions?

We're just gonna have to agree to disagree. If you don't post on my comments I won't post on yours. We're just going round in circles and I'll be working on my portfolio tomorrow. I don't have as much free time as you.

1

John **********

John **********

it's not an opinion, it's the law

1

Mason *******

Mason *******

I'm not finding your proof for you I've already told you that! You really are a highly opinionated and argumentative Scotsman aren't you 😆

1

John **********

John **********

I don't need you to find it for me. I need you to find it for you!

1

Mason *******

Mason *******

Opinion, unsubstantiated claim, misinformation, etc.

All same same from you 🤣

1

John **********

John **********

then substantiate it yourself. Go and look up the definition of work in Thailand for foreigners and you can read while you are there how exceptions work. You don't believe me but it's all there in black and white

2

Mason *******

Mason *******

It must have been written with invisible ink then bud.

I will not be quiet and will correct your misinformation and delete from my comments.

1

John **********

John **********

my misinformation? 🤣🤣🤣

1

Mason *******

Mason *******

Not me Johnny boy you're getting confused with someone else.

So just post here where it states you can't work remotely if you applied via soft power.

1

John **********

John **********

I've posted numerous times regarding the definition of work in Thailand and the way to work with that. Every time you've ignored it so go and look it up for yourself, and until you've done so and understood the implications perhaps you should keep quiet

1

Mason *******

Mason *******

@John *********

Then just post your evidence man, surely you have some. I'm not going to look for it for you!

1

John **********

John **********

I've already shared it with you, but for you ignorance is bliss

1

Mason *******

Mason *******

@John *********

And it's from a SP application.

Before you come back with Workation 😆

1

John **********

John **********

you don't seem to understand that applications are handled by consulate staff and are meaningless as to the actual legal position. Can I suggest that you avail yourself of the actual legal position in Thai law before you comment further

1

Mason *******

Mason *******

1

John **********

John **********

2 negatives don't make a positive

1

Mason *******

Mason *******

Is that what they taught you in Scottish school?

1

Mason *******

Mason *******

@John *********

Can work remotely only AND participate in soft power activities only.

You like missing out the AND Johnny boy 😆

1

Mason *******

Mason *******

@John *********

If only you had some evidence for this theory. It would make your life a lot easier with trying to police this group.

3

Andi ***********

Andi ***********

You need to stay until your application is approved. HCMC seems more "flexible" than Hanoi at the moment. Around 10 business days for approval.

1

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