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Which embassy should I choose for the DTV Soft Power (Cooking) visa application in Vietnam and do I need to fly to Thailand to activate it?

Thai Visa DTV Soft Power Visa Application Hanoi Embassy HCMC Embassy Vietnam Expatriates Visa Activation Procedures Travel Plans

Sep 7, 2025

3 days ago

Humble******

ORIGINAL POSTER

Planning to apply for DTV Soft Power (Cooking) towards the end of this month (September) in Vietnam. I have the seasoned funds but currently unemployed.

Which embassy is more friendly these days, Hanoi or HCMC? My plan was to stay in Danang & Hue which fall under HCMC but if Hanoi is better I don't mind going north.

And secondly, do I have to fly from Vietnam to Thailand to 'activate' it, or does it not matter? I need to be in Japan early November so I was planning to fly back to Bangkok from there. 

Thank you 🙏🏼

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TLDR : Answer Summary

The user plans to apply for a DTV Soft Power (Cooking) visa towards the end of September in Vietnam and seeks advice on which Thai embassy (Hanoi or HCMC) is more accommodating for such applications. Additionally, they inquire whether they need to leave Vietnam to activate the visa before heading to Japan in early November. Comments indicate no significant difference between the two embassies, and confirm that the visa activation occurs upon issuance and entry into Thailand.

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.
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3 days ago

Humble******

ORIGINAL POSTER

I read recent reports in the group and I did notice Jakarta is quick. But with the protests going on, it may not be the most 'fun' time to visit Indonesia 😅

3 days ago

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

HumbleJanken It is very likely back to norm by end of Sept.

3 days ago

Reply to

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

Andrew *********

The visa is activated by the immigration officer when you arrive. Make sure he sees it and stamps you in on it and not a visa exempt. See video of the lad deported and banned as he didn't do so.

3 days ago

John *****************

Agree with trying Jakarta. Vietnam can be tricky these days.

3 days ago

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

You can fly to Thailand from Japan. Not much difference between Hanoi and HCMC. Do you have 6 months plus course booked?

3 days ago

Humble******

ORIGINAL POSTER

@Andi **********

Thanks. I haven't booked the course yet. Trying to decide between House of Taste or Arun Thai 6-months.

3 days ago