My DTV application was unexpectedly rejected today (6 Nov at 11:54 a.m.) with HCM, Vietnam

Timeline:

• 27 Oct: Submitted application (7:10 p.m.)

• 28 Oct: Further info requested → submitted same day

• 4 Nov: Emailed consulate (visa expiring 9 Nov); later that day status changed from Document Check → Pending Approval

• 6 Nov, 7am: Emailed again early morning (tomorrow is the last working day before my visa expiry)

• 6 Nov, 11:54 a.m.: Received rejection

I’m an immigration advisor of NZ, working for a Chinese company, and I included:

• 6 months of payslips, bank statements, tax records, employment letter, the company registration and my license certificate.

• A NZ term deposit of over 1 million THB

• Stayed at Da Nang: boarding pass, hotel bills, visa and visa stamp.

Everything seemed straightforward, so I’m shocked by the refusal.

I can think of three possible reasons for the refusal, but I’d be interested to hear other views:

1. HCM may regard me as able to work locally since I can provide consultations to both Thai nationals and foreigners in Thailand, while the DTV prohibits me from working in Thailand. However, all clients of the company are from mainland China, which is not specifically mentioned in the application. Should I clarify that I am aware of Thai law and will not conduct any local work?

2. I hold both Chinese and New Zealand citizenships, but I applied under my Chinese passport (as only my Chinese health insurance covers me due to my medical conditions). This is not something I can change.

3. I used a New Zealand term deposit instead of a savings account, which might be seen as funds not immediately accessible. Should I instead provide proof of a regular savings account?

Has anyone experienced something similar or know what might have triggered this?