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What should I consider when applying for a DTV visa in Thailand, especially as a retired expat?

DTV Visa Thai Visa Application Retirement Visa Soft Power Activities Long Stay Visa Financial Requirements Thailand Immigration

Jan 28, 2026

3 months ago

Steve *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

Wow...it was suggested from another group to join here. This information is all very helpful. 

I just applied for my DTV....thank you for recommending bribing my application and documents used to gain my vida for airports and immigration....that makes total sense and seems to be in compliance with being transparent with seeking my permission...as I know its really up to the agent to make things go smoothly.  

I have applied online on the Thai e-visa platform as advised by Chatgpt..I am a resident of Chicago and if need be...I can come to the consulate for seeking this is all fails. I have shown more than enough financial security as well as my intentions in Thailand...65 years old, retired, long stay traveler and do not plan on working. 

Fingers crossed I get it. I am so used to going to Mexico for 180 day durations...I am just trying to change up my destination for traveling. I recently spent 5 months in Thailand and really enjoyed myself there and the neighboring countries.

Any feedback is welcome.

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The post outlines an individual's experience applying for a DTV visa while seeking long-term residency in Thailand. The applicant, a retired 65-year-old from Chicago, highlights their use of the Thai e-visa platform and emphasizes their financial security and travel intentions. However, the conversation reveals confusion around the DTV visa requirements, especially concerning 'soft power activities' and supporting documentation. Several commenters provide insights, questioning the appropriateness of the DTV application versus a retirement visa due to the applicant's age and intended stays, alongside advice regarding necessary documentation and consulate practices.

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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Nancy *******

I applied at age 65 using Soft Power, medical appointments, With supporting appointment documentation. Received it last year.

3 months ago

James ********

Easy to get before... now more difficult to get the DTV visa using medical.

3 months ago

Nancy *******

I was an early applicant!

3 months ago

Reply to

Nancy *******

DTV_Be*******

My apologies, it isn’t clear on what grounds that you applied for a DTV visa -remote worker, cultural softpower trainings, or medical appointments. You mentioned your age and that you are retired. Did you apply for the retirement visa instead (which is not a DTV visa)?

3 months ago

Steve *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

DTV_BegPecker I believe I applied for soft...I had drafted an intentions letter and attached to my application...retired, significant assets, planning to travel and enjoy long stay, health and use wellness offered in Thailand...absolutely no working.

3 months ago

DTV_Be*******

@Steve ******

3 months ago

Steve *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

DTV_BegPecker I am reading that financial independence and long stay traveling style is a reason I might be able to enter under the DTV as I showed a significant amount of wealth and explanation to my travels...its also on record how I traveled months ago there...3 months india, 5 months Thailand, 1 month Vietnam and 1 month Japan...maybe it will pass...crazy me I follow chatgpt like its my best friend's advice and she's said you are good to go since showing my investment account....showing significant financial independence and my intentions of long stay traveling

3 months ago

DTV_Be*******

@Steve ******

- Yes, that is unfortunate. Best option is to look at the embassy webpage. They have straight forward guidance, with visuals and everything. Nothing really complicated. Unfortunately, you are 99% likely going to be rejected. They don’t give “passes” but follow their government policy/laws.

3 months ago

Steve *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

DTV_BegPecker the consulate is near my home...if need be wait and see and if I need to go..I can easily head that way....oh crap

3 months ago

Steve *******

ORIGINAL POSTER

DTV_BegPecker oh crap....here I thought I dotted my I's and crossed my T's. I did with chatgpt and wrote a letter of intentions in regards to health and wellness as I have medical history of Crohn's and Cancer and have also seen doctors urologist, skin doctors at RAM Hospital. Let's see if they slip me pass or demand a rewritten acceptance letter into a place stated.

3 months ago

Reply to

Steve *******

DTV_Be*******

@Steve ******

Softpower means you need to sign up for a six month course - usually Muay Thai martial arts or Thai cooking classes. What you mention here isn’t covered by this visa, unfortunately.

3 months ago

James ********

IF you are applying for the DTV visa using a Soft Power Activity, you need to state which soft power activity and that course sponsor needs to provide you with documents confirming that you are enrolled in their soft power activity for at least 6 months or more.

The Chicago Thai Consulate is known for its helpfulness in processing Thai applications.

3 months ago

James ********

3 months ago

James ********

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3 months ago

Reply to

James ********

What are the chances of successfully applying for a DTV Visa in Thailand as a retired expat needing medical procedures?

6 comments

4 months ago

What should I know about applying for a DTV visa in Thailand and the required documentation?