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Will I face immigration issues if I arrive in Thailand before my work start date?

Thailand Immigration Visa Regulations Employment Visa DTV Visa Entry Requirements

Jan 7, 2026

4 months ago

Kyal *****

ORIGINAL POSTER

Hello,

I’m drafting a contract letter with my work and the official start date of my work is February 1, 2026. However, I’m planning to be in Thailand around January 25, 2026. Will I have issues during immigration? Should I ask my work to remove the engagement start date in the letter?

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TLDR : Answer Summary

You should not face any issues entering Thailand around January 25, 2026, as long as your DTV (Digital Work Visa) is issued before your arrival. It's common to enjoy a holiday prior to starting work. Just ensure that you leave Thailand before your official work start date of February 1, 2026, and wait for your DTV to be processed.

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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Greg ********

If your DTV is issued you will have no problems entering Thailand in January.

4 months ago

Robert *******

No problem to enjoy a holiday before you start to work.

Just leave Thailand before 1 Feb and apply for the DTV, wait until it is issued and than return to Thailand

4 months ago

Reply to

Robert *******

Is the DTV effective immediately upon approval, and can I enter Thailand before the chosen arrival date?

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5 months ago

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