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What should I consider when applying for a DTV visa after a minor legal issue in Thailand?

Mar 20, 2026
a month ago
Anastassia *******
ORIGINAL POSTER
Urgent question before applying

Hello everyone, I'm a Swiss citizen that want to apply for the DTV visa (soft power) from Switzerland

I been in Thailand already many times in the past 2 years but never overstayed and meanwhile exit from Thailand for small amount of time for work purposes in other countries.

I also had an minor issue for which I was processed and paid a small fine (possession of alprozolam for personal use but invalid prescription in Thailand) after it | left the country by myself no deportation no blacklist.

Questions:

- would you suggest me to contact the Thai Bern consulate, explain clearly my past in Thailand and question how big is the chance of being rejected ?

- in case that I apply and get approved I still have chance to be rejected once arrived in Thailand at the airport immigration ?

If you had a similar case like mine please reach out if you can help me with my case.

Thank you.
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TLDR : Answer Summary
A Swiss citizen is inquiring about the DTV visa (soft power) application process, considering a minor legal issue with Thai authorities in the past. Key questions include whether to disclose this history to the Thai consulate and the potential risk of being denied entry upon arrival in Thailand, despite having a visa. Community responses suggest varying opinions: some recommend disclosing information to avoid problems later, particularly regarding controlled substances, while others advise not to mention past issues, focusing instead on required application procedures.
DTV VISA RESOURCES / SERVICES
Muay *********************
In all the hundreds of applications we have supported past passport history has never been an issue.
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Gavin ***********
1. Yes, definitely. In visa applications, honesty is the best policy. It is much better to tell them now than for them to find out later. If they find it themselves, they might think you are hiding information, which could lead to a permanent ban.

Prepare all your legal papers, like the fine receipt or a court document showing the case is "Closed." This proves you followed the law and the matter is finished.

2. Yes, it’s possible. Even with a valid visa, the Immigration Officer at the airport has the final say on whether to let you in.

Because you have a record in the system, they might ask you to go to a separate room for a quick interview (Secondary Inspection).

Always carry the original documents and an English/Thai translation with you. If they ask questions, you can show them immediately that your case is legally cleared.

Issues involving controlled substances (like Alprazolam) can be tricky because it depends on the officer's judgment. I will discuss your case further with legal experts here in Thailand, or you may consult with us directly (as Thai attorneys), to see if there’s anything else we can do to make your entry as smooth as possible.
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Robert *******
Your history with Thai custums has nothing to do with a NEW application for a visa at the Ministry Of Foreign Affairs.

IF you are able to enter Thailand is the decision of the Royal Thai Police Immigration Bureau, a visa does not guarantee an entry, it does gives you a certain amount of days to stay in that country based on the purpose of your visit.

Visa applications and entry into Thailand are personal and handled one by one, experience in Social Media comments can not be used to overrule the decesion of Thai Government officials.
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Anonymous ******************
Hi there i applied january in Switzerland too but paid visa agency in bangkok and they accepted me in 10 days.
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Wannikea *********
Absolutely do not mention anything, just fill in the required form and supply the required documents.
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James ********
@Wannikea ********
Wise advice ✅
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James ********
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Frank-Steven ***********
Well, I don't want to give legal advise. But in your position, I see no need to volunteer information to the embassy beyond what they require you to answer in the application process. Having said that, the risk upon entry into Thailand at the border - with or without a visa - is a speparate story. Even with a valid visa, people can be denied entry. Having said that again, unless you are on a banned from entry list, the Thai immigration act should not prevent you from entering. But this is Thailand, a lot of gray area – always.
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Frank-Steven ***********
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