Why are visa application requirements inconsistent for freelancers and those using the soft power option in Thailand?

That's because Thai bureaucracy is whacky 🤣

This is all about boosting the Thai economy not about making sense. Soft power means legit schools get money. The extra time in Thailand got so many people to sign up for these. The business being legit has a lot to do with not getting any income from Thai sources and not looking like you just borrowed money to show a balance.

My take is they want genuine freelancers etc, with a track record portfolio and a client history. They need the income statement to satisfy it's a legit credible application, they aren't looking at the income per say, just a customer client relationship.

If you're coming to Thailand, get used to things not making sense. And get used to different offices of the same branch of government 'interpreting' laws and regulations differently.

You need to fulfill legitimately each category

It stands to Reason if you're portraying yourself as self employed or working remotely for an overseas company

Over The years there have been many scam companies and individuals operating

What lots of people have a confusion about, and speculate on, is not what is going on with this new DTV. Anything new Thailand does, like this visa, and other's, they do not initially make detailed rules. They make it simple, trusting people, then make increases in regulations as they see the exploits being abused, and the perceived loopholes that exist. The one thing they do is grandfather in everyone already on the visa, with the rules that were in place then, or lack of rules then. Anyone on the visa now is grandfathered in to any changes imposed for the next five years. If you don't wait to get it as locations in some parts of the world are tightening up on documentation already, and the length of paid for soft power options. Right now there are no requirements for lots of different details, like no rules you must go to classes, or make doctor appointments, etc, which rules will be made to address that in the future, but won't affect those that have the visa now for the next five years. After that it is different. Don't wait to get this visa, as rules will tighten. As far as tax liability goes, it is no different than being on any short term tourist visa, under 180 days, and they don't care, so for the next five years try not to make them care.

Welcome to Thailand 🇹🇭

Same with all visa applications to all countries. The Immigration Officer making the decision has discretion in deciding.

In my opinion, the option involving soft power is the most vulnerable. It will be like a second student visa. Each time you enter Thailand, they will bother you with questions—such as which gym you attend, calling them for verification, proof that you’re still there, and other inquiries. The workation option is more reliable since the company is based outside of Thailand, resulting in fewer questions. That's why they issue soft power DTVs so easily😁

I was approved: Submitted letter from HR, original job offer, bank statements for six months and easily approved

That's why I didn't do the freelancer even though I own my own business. I just got a letter from my doctor I've been seeing in Bangkok and she wrote me a letter stating I'm a patient of hers and the hospital on official hospital letterhead. Was approved with no questions aaked.

What people mean with soft power? Sorry but im new here 🙏🏻

Some embassies are tied with agents to get in that $$$....so they make it as hard as possible for 'normal applications' to apply at their embassies. Also applying workcation catergory seems pointless imo, not only does it potentially put you at higher risk of being potentially fined/caught out if you 'forget' to pay your tax...........but its much more likely to be rejected by embassies. Just go for soft power and accept you will have to take a short trip out of thailand every six months ( about 5k baht but nice to have a break anyway)

Each application is different.

It is Thailand.

Just give them the paperwork that is required that's the main point. Some go over the top or supply different to what is requested so red flags the checking officer. I gave only what they asked for no issue.

It is what it is and it is great.

Do your homework and you will not be confused.

Yeah I applied for workcatiln they asked for a ton of additional paperwork company registration and pay slips etc

Just go for the soft power option. I think most people are doing that now