In reality does it actually matter under what category you apply? Workation or Soft Power? The actual visa is exactly the same.

Hey everyone!

We’re planning to apply for the DTV in Taiwan and would love to hear from anyone who’s already gone through the process.

We’re a couple - one American, one Israeli and we’d really appreciate any insights, tips, or experiences you can share 🙏

Thanks in advance!

So I'm trying to decide between the DTV and the Retirement visa since I just turned 50. I have enough in savings to meet both the requirements for those two visas. The main drawback for the DTV is that I am a freelance video editor but have hardly any income from it right now. I do have about $1000 per month in rental income from my family but it's not in my name (another problem).

The retirement visa seems much more complicated than the DTV and since I'm still a freelancer that is my preferred visa. But seeing as my freelance income is almost nothing right now the savings won't be enough on it's own right now right?

The other option is soft power for the DTV which I'm also researching. Any advice is much appreciated, thanks!

EDIT: Thanks for the replies/advice. From all the responses it definitely looks like the best route is to apply for the Non-O from where I'm at now (US-San Francisco).

A couple of questions someone here could hopefully help with.

1) If I apply based on soft power, am I allowed to work remotely? If not, would you need to exit Thailand, go to an embassy and apply for a new DTV based on workcation?

2) For soft power, e.g. muay thai classes, do you need to have proof of being enrolled in a new class if entering via airport after the first course has ended?

Sorry I tried searching this group but was not able to find answers to these questions. Thank you.

Hi everyone!

I'm applying through HCMC on a soft power visa. Just got a request for supporting documents.

All pretty straightforward, except for proof of monthly income, ending with: "Additionally, please describe your plans after completing the course while holding a 5-year visa."

I would naturally go with something along, "if all goes well I would like to enroll in an advanced program" but I'm wondering if there are any red flags I'm missing.

Had anyone been asked that, and if so, what would be a proper answer?

Thanks in Advance

I’ve recently been granted my Workcation (DTV) visa for Thailand through the Royal Thai Embassy in London. I’m now preparing to apply for a Soft Power visa for my girlfriend, who will be enrolling in a certified Thai cooking course during our stay.

What we’ve done so far:

• Transferred 500,000 THB into her personal Thai bank account last week to support her application.

• Secured her official enrollment in a six-month Thai cooking program.

• Drafted a sponsor letter confirming that both I and my company will cover her accommodation, utilities, and living expenses, as we will be living together in Thailand.

Additionally, she will be assisting me on the side with administrative and creative tasks for my company, which is registered in the United Kingdom and operates entirely outside of Thailand. This will serve as a supplementary, remote source of income.

I’d appreciate clarification on the following:

1. Should the 500,000 THB remain in her account for a specific duration before applying (i.e. seasoning)?

Some sources mention a 3-month history—can you confirm the requirement for the London embassy?

2. What exact documents are required from the Thai cooking school?

Is the acceptance letter sufficient, or do you also require the school’s business registration, class schedule, or payment receipt?

3. Is proof of relationship needed, and if so, what type is preferred?

Would personal photos, joint travel history, or a signed affidavit be appropriate?

4. Should we include a copy of our rental agreement in Thailand?

Will this help demonstrate shared accommodation and support her application?

5. Would you recommend including my employment contract, company registration, or income statements to reinforce the sponsor letter?

Documents we’re preparing to submit:

• Sponsor letter (detailing financial support and cohabitation)

• Thai bank statement showing 500,000 THB deposit

• Enrollment letter and payment confirmation from the cooking school

• Proof of accommodation (lease/rental agreement)

• Proof of relationship (photos, travel itinerary, joint documents)

• My employment and business documents (as financial sponsor)

• Explanation of her remote assistance with my UK-based business (non-Thai income)

Please let us know if there are any other requirements specific to the Royal Thai Embassy in London, or if there’s anything else we should include to ensure a smooth and successful application.

Has anyone gotten a DTV but has mysterious sources of income. I make approx $10000 a month but don’t have a company- I stream on twitch from time to time and have subs on patreon. ( no nudity or anything at all) and have a big Twitter page with 50k where I get sent gifts under $. Or should I apply for soft power. Thanks :)

When I presented my DTV evisa at the Chiang Mai airport today I was led away to a separate area. It seemed like they were taking all the DTV visas to a separate area. When I was filling up my form I had a question and when she realized that I was on a workstation she let me go over and process my stamp. I think they are focusing more on questioning the soft power applicants. Just a fyi to be prepared to answer some questions.

Hello, I am currently in Thailand and will soon start freelancing. I have seen several people doing the DTV process from Vietnam. I would like to know if I can telework for a few weeks from Vietnam to justify my income? Is it legally allowed? and which kind of visa do I need in Vietnam? (I am French)

Anyone been approved recently or rejected from Hanoi doing softpowers?