Answered6 months ago
What should self-employed travelers expect during entry with a DTV to Thailand?
Experience report: Entry into Phuket (first time with DTV / Workation visa)
My husband, at the counter next to me, got through within a minute. I, on the other hand, was held for about 1.5 to 2 hours before I was finally allowed to enter.
The officer asked me what type of visa I had, and I answered truthfully. He then asked to see my employment contract from the company I work for. I couldn’t provide one because I’m self-employed. I explained this to him and offered to show my business registration instead.
He then took me to a separate room. There, I had to wait quite a while with others whose entry had (temporarily) been denied.
After that, I had to present my documents and fill out a form. After about 1.5-2 hours, I was finally allowed to enter the country.
My husband, at the counter next to me, got through within a minute. I, on the other hand, was held for about 1.5 to 2 hours before I was finally allowed to enter.
The officer asked me what type of visa I had, and I answered truthfully. He then asked to see my employment contract from the company I work for. I couldn’t provide one because I’m self-employed. I explained this to him and offered to show my business registration instead.
He then took me to a separate room. There, I had to wait quite a while with others whose entry had (temporarily) been denied.
After that, I had to present my documents and fill out a form. After about 1.5-2 hours, I was finally allowed to enter the country.
Answer summary
A user reported their experience of entering Phuket with a Digital Nomad/Workation Visa (DTV), detailing a lengthy entry process that involved being questioned about their visa type and employment status. They were unable to provide an employment contract due to being self-employed, which led to additional scrutiny and a 1.5-2 hour wait in a separate room. Other commenters shared similar experiences, reflecting varying levels of questioning at different airports, suggesting a stricter approach to immigration checks, especially in Phuket. Concerns about illegal work and the need for proper documentation were prevalent in the discussion, alongside recommendations to always have necessary papers ready for reentry to avoid complications.
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LongTimeLivi************
You mentioned they had you fill out a form. Was that the TDAC form?
Ki ****
OPLongTimeLivingInThailand No, I had already filled that out before entering the country. ;)
It’s a questionnaire where you have to provide information such as your financial savings.
It’s a questionnaire where you have to provide information such as your financial savings.
LongTimeLivi************
@Ki ***
Strange but interesting. More and more posters are saying they’ve been asked to provide documents again, even though the embassies already vetted and approved the DTV. Something seems to be happening behind the scenes, maybe rivalry or friction between departments. Enjoy your stay.Luit *****************
LongTimeLivingInThailand I think it is perfectly normal that immigration checks foreigners entering the country, that just is their job, so not really strange.
That has nothing to do with rivalry or frictions.
MFA has different tasks than Immigration.
Approval for a visa by MFA does not mean you can enter the country bypassing Immigration checks.
That something is happening in Thailand might be true, you can see all kind of rules enforced more strictly than before, not only concerning immigration, but almost everywhere, like checks on companies only set up for evading laws, more strict enforcing tax rules for Thai citizens.
It looks like they want to change their image.
That has nothing to do with rivalry or frictions.
MFA has different tasks than Immigration.
Approval for a visa by MFA does not mean you can enter the country bypassing Immigration checks.
That something is happening in Thailand might be true, you can see all kind of rules enforced more strictly than before, not only concerning immigration, but almost everywhere, like checks on companies only set up for evading laws, more strict enforcing tax rules for Thai citizens.
It looks like they want to change their image.
Wannikea *********
Phuket has had to take the brunt of yahoos, miscreants, abusers, shirtless warriors, and drunks ever since high season started. The locals are pissed. The outcry has led to the consideration of reducing the visa exempt entry from 60 days to 30 days. So in Phuket, mind your manners and consider what the residents have been put through.
Gianluca ******
Sorry, just a couple of questions out of curiosity
Where did you file your DTV?
When you filed your DTV, how did they verify whether you were applying as an employee of a company or as a freelancer?
Was this your first time using it?
What did they ask you?
Where did you file your DTV?
When you filed your DTV, how did they verify whether you were applying as an employee of a company or as a freelancer?
Was this your first time using it?
What did they ask you?
Christer *****
@Gianluca *****
If you have limited a company you can write a hiring contract for yourself. You pay taxes, pension etc. You are employed.Ki ****
OP@Gianluca *****
I applied for the visa in Germany (Frankfurt).I explained my circumstances in a cover letter and, among other things, submitted my business registration as proof.
Yes, it was my first time entering using the DTV.
They didn’t ask many questions, mainly just wanted to check the documents and have me fill out the form.
Gianluca ******
@Ki ***
they check your bank account too?Ki ****
OP@Gianluca *****
I had to write down my account balance on the form, but they didn’t check it.
David ***********
You haven't signed an employment contract with your company? (half joke, half serious!)
I read of another self employed DTV holder who had to write a letter of rekommendation from the company to himself as an employee, and it might seem strange, but in the governments eyes a company and an employee is not the same entity, even if it is the same person.
and as always, This is Thailand, your results may vary.
I read of another self employed DTV holder who had to write a letter of rekommendation from the company to himself as an employee, and it might seem strange, but in the governments eyes a company and an employee is not the same entity, even if it is the same person.
and as always, This is Thailand, your results may vary.
Ki ****
OP@David **********
😅No, the embassy didn’t ask for a letter of recommendation or an employment contract... “only” the business registration (plus a cover letter, invoices to clients, a tax assessment notice, and proof of funds).
Greg ******
Not sure if it’s directly related to your experience, but they’re really cracking down on illegal work and companies right now. I wouldn’t be surprised if they’re also paying closer attention at the borders.
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788?fbclid=IwdGRjcARk-hRjbGNrBGT6D2V4dG4DYWVtAjExAHNydGMGYXBwX2lkDDM1MDY4NTUzMTcyOAABHtuoFvDtrdCvncc_8vEmqmOp86jRO6o6mEIRh-yD6I3n7rByoxcIVzgm464O_aem_mBmXY2n6BWDoGgrleogsZwKi ****
OP@Greg *****
Yes, that could very well be the case. I was just a bit "surprised" because I had already submitted a lot of documents to the embassy in order to obtain the DTV. Maybe these are just random spot checks now.It’s good that they are taking action against illegal workers.
Greg ********
@Ki ***
Its not just the illegal workers it is the companies using "Thai Nominees" to get around ownership rules. If they really go for those in certain tourist spots it will have a massive effect. This new government has stated it wants to look at this plus the whole visa situation. The widespread news about the illegal school with 89 kids on KPG was no accident it was published so widely.Greg ******
@Ki ***
Yeah that’s not unusual though. I’ve had the same experience twice on a legitimate Non-B visa (no red flag, real work). Compared to the number of entries I’ve made, it’s not a lot but it’s definitely not impossible as some people here suggest.
Mark *************************
Im getting an agent every time to guarantee my entry. Worth every baht. The hassle, the time wasted, the problems, just not worth it. 3-4k for every 6 months? Absolutely fine.
Nebyu ***********
@Mark ************************
any you recommend?
BeautifulP**********
@Mark ************************
could you recommend me your agent if I dm you?
Dave ****
BeautifulPhoenix2271 It's pure fantasy. There's absolutely no way anyone can be guaranteed entry and if someone takes money off you for that purpose run. Most people fail to realise that a lot of these so called "agents" can do more harm than good. Relax, enjoy your visa and let everyone else lose themselves in a world of paranoia.
James **********
@Mark ************************
agreed there all in on it back handers
Anonymous ******************
@Mark ************************
that's what they want you to do. Hire agent for everything so they can get something also.
David ********
I’m curious the home countries of others waiting to be questioned, are they targeting certain countries or it was a mixed bag?
Ki ****
OP@David *******
It was a pretty mixed group. I talked to people from France, the Netherlands, Turkey, and the US.David ********
@Ki ***
at least there’s no bias then.David ********
@Pascal **********
I’ve always gone straight through, been here since I got it 2 years agoKi ****
OP@Pascal **********
I don’t think so. For example, I’ve just spent 9 months in Germany and Spain. In 2024 and 2025, besides Thailand, I was also in three other countries. And I also have a valid 5-year visa for India.So I'm not permanently in Thailand....
Pascal ***********
@David *******
I wonder if it’s happening mainly to people that live in Thailand on a DTV and only leave a couple of days to neighbouring countries at the end of their 180 days ? After all, the DTV is a tourist visa, not a non-immigrant or LTR.Gianluca ******
Same airport, no question, 10 seconds to enter. 2 weeks ago
Christopher ***********
@Gianluca *****
That's all thanks to your genuine Facebook profile Gianluca!Gianluca ******
idiots******
@Gianluca *****
it is purely random. I also entered twice 10sec no questions. Unfortunately there are low odds of not going smoothly at all times.Christopher ***********
idiotsomchai 'Purely random'. Is that for DTV holders only or for all entries?
Anonymous ******************
My partner (a freelancer) also got questioned at phuket on first dtv entry for 45 min in that separate room. They wanted to go through all the documents and proof submitted during the visa application.
I entered through DMK and had zero questions. Took 1 min.
I'm a full time employee of a foreign Co though.
So we're not sure if the reason is phuket is stricter or employment type of freelancer is a higher risk. Or just luck of spot checks 🤷♂️
I entered through DMK and had zero questions. Took 1 min.
I'm a full time employee of a foreign Co though.
So we're not sure if the reason is phuket is stricter or employment type of freelancer is a higher risk. Or just luck of spot checks 🤷♂️
Christopher ***********
Anonymous participant 159 The common factor in the issue is anonymous participants.
Ki ****
OPAnonymer Teilnehmer 159 Maybe they’re now just carrying out random spot checks.
Greg ********
@Ki ***
This is the most likely scenario. Just random checks.Robert *******
Anonymous participant 159 Immigration Officers doing their job is an issue for you?
Marc ********
@Robert ******
you are so annoying with your trollingMarc ********
@Robert ******
If I ever need advise from the group here I will make sure you are on my block list before I post.Robert *******
Marc ********
@Robert ******
stopp trolling and being rude to people then nobody will have to call you out... easyRobert *******
@Marc *******
stop reading
Anonymous ******************
@Robert ******
none sense really. That job is done initially when applying for DTV. If they are really picky or there are 4ules not accepted they should have just rejected the DTV given this is first entry too so nothing changed muchGreg ******
Anonymous participant 366 The MFA’s job is to ensure you qualify at the time of application while immigration ensures you still meet the requirements during their checks. 5 years is a long time and some may use excuses at application to conduct other illegal activities.
Caroline ********
Happened to me at BKK on first entry with my DTV. Wasn't detained long though. Answered some questions; showed docs on my laptop, bank account on phone and filled a form before being stamped through.
Was told to always have documents for DTV on every entry.
So I have prepped a file with all my copies. Will update bank info each time I enter.
Was told to always have documents for DTV on every entry.
So I have prepped a file with all my copies. Will update bank info each time I enter.
Anonymous ******************
@Caroline *******
all DTV holders should read your post and do exactly that just to be prepared if questioned upon reentry. Immigration has every right to question you at any time upon reentry and if you have everything in hand and ready, you'll have no issues.I believe they are just trying to crack down on the abuse of the DTV Visa. This Visa was another welcoming gift from Thailand that unfortunately got exploited and misused by a handful of shady characters and scammers. You can't blame Thailand immigration for making an effort to filter out those who are legitimate from those who aren't.
Caroline ********
Anonymous participant 171 💯 It's always a few bad apples that spoil it for genuine visa holders/applicants. If a little folder in a side pocket of my luggage helps them do their job, I'm fine with it. I see it as part of the privilege of being able to live here in this way. But that's just me.
Paul ********
@Caroline *******
what bank info do you refer to? The balance required at the time you apply for the DTV visa?Caroline ********
@Paul *******
No. First they wanted my most recent business bank balance. But after seeing my husband's mobile banking balance, the IO said she didn't need to see my bank info anymore. One bank balance sufficed at that point.James ********
IF BKK Suvarnabhumi Airport... contact this SAFE ENTRY service company... they have a special promotion of 2,000 Thai baht for DTV visa holders.
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/2-Safe-Entry-13.3.pdfCaroline ********
@James *******
Brilliant. Thanks a mil James. Very helpful.James ********
Caroline ********
@James *******
Haven't heard of that. Do you mind giving some info about it, please. My husband is the one that keeps getting us/me flagged when we come back and he's out applying for his DTV right now. We were wondering if coming back with fast track MIGHT help? Is it something like that?Caroline ********
@James *******
BKK. Appreciate any insight 🙏🏽James ********
@Caroline *******
yes it is... which Airport will you be arriving in Thailand ?idiots******
It is very stressful. You just never kmow what they will ask or do.
Christopher ***********
idiotsomchai How can it be stressful? You know the criteria. Produce the same information used for your application plus updates.
Luit *****************
@Christopher **********
For once I agree 100 percent with you.The DTV is an evisa, so everybody should have documents digital online, so not too difficult to keep them updated an accessible in the cloud.
Having all documents should prevent stress and also allow for fast processing by IO.
Pond ************
@Christopher **********
it is stressful because sometimes the immigration at the airport may differ from what was asked at the embassy. I read before a korean couple was denied because their remote work contract was deemed "too old" by the immigration officer. How many times do I need to go back to my employer and ask them to sign a new contract that has no expiration date and it is legally valid? It is absurd. It is like preparing to apply for the visa all over again every time you enter the country when a visa was already given to you.Luit *****************
@Pond ***********
When you have a contract without an end date, and can produce a recent salary slip, I expect it to be sufficient.That you can show you still comply with visa rules when you again enter Thailand after some time is not really strange.
Situation can change, a visa is not a guaranteed entry ticket, only a pre screening by embassy to tell immigration they have no problems with you entering the country, but it is still up to immigration to decide about your entry.
Christopher ***********
@Pond ***********
Are you sure that the report you read was genuine? As you know, this page is infested with troll reports posted by anonymous participants, nicknames, burner and sock puppet Facebook profiles. Mostly they're obvious but even the best of us can sometimes be hoodwinked.Robert *******
So how did you find out that others were there because : "(temporarily) been denied."?
How long was that temporarily?
You showed some documents and filled out a form?
What form for what reason?
Why keep that secret??
How long was that temporarily?
You showed some documents and filled out a form?
What form for what reason?
Why keep that secret??
Luit *****************
@Mason ******
I perfectly know what I have said, but you interpret my remarks incorrect.And I am sure there will be a lot of DTV 1 visa, just as there will be a lot of DTV 2, and also DTV 3 will be a significant amount.
Mason *******
@Luit ****************
Well mine just says Destination Thailand Visa and no number...Ki ****
OP@Mason ******
Yes, they confirmed that to me. Because I told them that I had already submitted everything and that they should have it on file. But no....Mason *******
@Luit ****************
Do the IOs at the airport have access to your DTV application info?Luit *****************
@Mason ******
Why you ask me? I am not an IO, so I cannot know exactly what info they have.
I am sure they will have some info that is relevant for their task, but I do not expect them to have all info.
Robert *******
@Mason ******
He will say NO.Others say they did not have to show the DTV as it was in the computer system.
He will say they have no system and use smoke signals to communicate
IF you want to know, visit Immigration and ask your details.
This is the way to ask
Luit *****************
@Robert ******
Are you suggesting I will say they use smoke signals?Where did you get that weird idea?
Ki ****
OP@Robert ******
I’m not keeping anything secret — I simply wanted to share my experience, since most posts about difficulties are often shared anonymously.You could also just ask in a polite way... Right?
I spoke with the other people waiting there, which is how I know about their situations. I also overheard some of the conversations between the officers and the other travelers. I’m still in contact with one person who was denied entry, as I helped inform her partner, who was allowed to enter.
As for my case: I had to show my business registration and the same documents I originally submitted for my DTV application. According to the officers, they don’t have access at the airport to the documents submitted to the embassy.
I also had to fill out a form where I provided details such as my address in Thailand, the amount of cash I was carrying, my bank balance, etc.
Robert *******
@Ki ***
Sorry to be rude.Temporarily denied entry?
Immigration Officers are on duty, they stop some people to ask questions about their planned stay into a country. that is NOT temporarily denied entry.
It is part of an investigation which can lead to approved or denied entry.
Yes, the Royal Thai Police Immigration Bureau has no access to forms submitted to an Embassy which is part of the Thai Ministry Of Foreign Affairs.
Thanks for informing people that their partners are denied entry.
I guess they run out of battery by showing pictures of all documents before they could make the phone call or send text message.
Sophie *****
@Marc *******
He has been doing the same for years in the Bangkok Expats group. Some people are just very bored.Marc ********
@Robert ******
I am not anonymous and observe you a long time now. You are always trolling around, being rude and never contributing anything useful. Best advise is just to block you. I have seen quite a few comments suggesting blocking youRobert *******
Anonymous participant 730 another nickname same story.
Please stay on subject and help people.
Your personal attacks to me are nice but does not solve any visa question.
Please stay on subject and help people.
Your personal attacks to me are nice but does not solve any visa question.
Robert *******
@Ki ***
No worries, as you can see anonymous trolls seem to have the biggest mouth in this group and try to explain how Thailand (their dreamworld) has to function.They think they can decide, not the Royal Thai Police Immigration Bureau following the law, rules, and regulations by the Thai government.
Anonymous ******************
@Ki ***
Don't apologise to this clown. Being rude and sarcastic is his default setting.Ki ****
OP@Robert ******
Sorry if I didn’t explain it perfectly... English is not my native language.I understand that these checks are normal and important. You often hear that some people work illegally or stay without the right visa, so I can understand why they do this...
I just wanted to share my experience because most people I talked to, and what I read in this group, said they got through immigration very quickly.
Anonymous ******************
Fly into BKK next time 👍
Christopher ***********
Anonymous participant 730 You have personally had trouble entering with your DTV at Phuket but it was plain sailing at Suvarnabhumi Airport?
James ********
Anonymous participant 730 or use Safe Entry service
Knowledgeabl************
Do you generally believe in that ?
Anonymous ******************
The snack money is more at DMK? Lol quite funny
James ********
In BKK Suvarnabhumi Airport this Safe Entry service has a special promotion of 2,000 Thai baht for DTV visa holders.
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/2-Safe-Entry-13.3.pdfJames ********
KnowledgeableRaccoon5198 absolutely 💯👍
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