Just got my DTV approved in HCM, Vietnam.

Hi all, I applied as a Singaporean as a freelancer in HCM and got it approved in about 3 weeks total.

For context, I was rejected twice in Singapore for insufficient funds. First time was my fault- I was trying my luck by submitting my investment accounts (they’ve stated they wont accept that) and second time I got rejected because the *final ending balance* for one of my bank statements did not meet the minimum requirement.

I was advised to apply outside of Singapore. This is the timeline and documents I submitted:

27 Nov evening: submitted all documents- with 3 months of bank statements.

1 Dec: asked for further documents: all passport pages, document describing my self employment, portfolio and resume, and proof of qualifications. (I am an online fitness coach)

2 Dec evening: submitted further documents.

8 Dec evening: status changed on the website from “pending document check” to “pending approval”

12 Dec 5:50pm: received email of approval and PDF of visa.

Total working days: 11 days.

It was definitely a nerve wracking experience, but I’m so happy to finally have obtained it. The wait may have been long but it was worth it. For those applying in HCMC, please be patient! If you meet all the requirements there should be no issue.

Feel free to ask me any questions and I’ll be happy to answer them.

Can someone please tell me what the turnaround time is for the issuance of a Thai tourist visa at the consulate in Phnom Penh? (apply Monday)

Hi there! Looking for some (somewhat urgent advice). I'm working for a registered foundation but will need to change from the non-f visa to a non-b, as I have got a new job for a (corporate) company.

The visa peoplefrom the company are telling me I'll need to leave the country and apply outside for a new non-b visa. They have said that they can only apply for the (new) WP3 once I leave the country (never heard of that rule before but they insist it's true). First question: is that correct - that they have to wait until I leave to get the new WP3?

I have a trip planned to the Philippines anyway. I could extend my trip there and stay in Manila in order to apply at the Thai Embassy there. However, I've read some bad reports online basically saying it's a nightmare.

Second question: Does anyone have any experience applying for a non-b in Manila? (I'm not a Filipino pp holder). Any strange requests for documents?

The visa people I'm dealing with have said they'll need to send the new original docs to my Manila hotel which creates some possible issues.

The other option is coming back from the trip and going to VTN and doing it there, which is straight forward, but requires another trip instead of just doing it while I'm in the Phils.

Third question (opinion): which of these options would you go for? I need some advice as i need to book the Tix. Thanks!