Yes, you can absolutely be in Bali and apply via the Jakarta embassy - everything is done online, so you don’t need to be physically in Jakarta.

The only small risk is if the embassy requests an in-person interview, but that has been very rare so far in Indonesia. Most applicants complete the process without needing to appear in person. Just make sure your documents are complete and you remain reachable in case of any follow-up.

We wouldn’t recommend leaving right away, as embassies have become more strict recently. In several cases, they’ve followed up a few days after submission asking for additional documents like:

- Photos of all passport pages with stamps/visas

- Updated hotel receipts or proof of stay

It’s best to stay around longer or throughout just in case you’re asked to provide extra documents or clarification. Interview requests are still rare, but additional checks are becoming more common.

The official guideline is to have 500,000 THB or equivalent in your personal bank account for at least 3 months.

However, we’ve also noticed that some embassies (like in Vietnam, Philippines and Indonesia) may accept applications even if the funds were recently deposited — especially if all other documents are strong, including remote job proof and clear income flow.

Still, it’s a bit risky, so if you apply with only a recent deposit, just be prepared for the possibility that they may ask for additional info or reject it.

It is not advisable to use sponsorship letters and bank statements. From our experience assisting other applicants, it is generally much harder or not accepted by some embassies.

Sorry to hear about your case.. must be frustrating, especially with such a small detail causing the rejection.

If it's not convenient to remain in the U.S. for the process, applying from Hanoi is definitely a reasonable alternative. It's very common for applicants who are rejected in one country to try again from another and get approved successfully.. as long as the rest of your documents and financial requirements are in order.

Wishing you all the best for the next attempt!

It depends on the reason for the rejection.

If the issue was something simple like a name mismatch, incorrect photo, or missing documents, you can resubmit a new application right away, ideally after correcting the issue.

However, if there was no clear reason given or if you were previously asked for additional financial documents before the rejection, it's often best to apply again from another country (e.g. Vietnam, Indonesia, or the Philippines), where approval rates tend to be higher.

From what we've observed, second applications from the same country, especially without addressing major concerns.. have a much lower success rate.

Congratulations!

- Do print out your supporting documents especially your e-visa when coming into Thailand.

- Check your passport stamp when passing the immigration as there has been cases that the officer mistakenly uses the day visit visa instead of 180 days DTV stamp.

- Will be good to mentally prepare the small chance that they ask some questions about your intention in Thailand and how you will support yourself.

It doesn't happen often but it's good to be prepared if it comes to that. Overall your answers should match your intention of being here (i.e. your interest in Thai culture and Muay Thai classes)

Hi Claire, based on what we’ve seen from successful applications:

- You’ll need a sponsorship letter from yourself

- Proof of relationship (such as your marriage certificate)

The letter should clearly explain:

- Your reason for being in Thailand (DTV holder)

- That you can financially support both yourself and your spouse

- That your spouse will not be working in Thailand

For finances, the requirement is 1,000,000 THB total for two people. This can be shown entirely in your own account, so your spouse does not need to show separate funds.

Both applicants usually upload bank statements, but as long as the full amount is in your account, that has been accepted for dependent applications.

Hi Roman! Just to share, one of our applicants from the UAE (enrolling in our cooking school program) submitted their DTV application on 16 May and received approval on 5 June, so about 3 weeks total. Hope that helps as a reference!

Hello! Like what another commenter has mentioned and from our experience assisting various applicants, those applying under the “Workation” route as traders often have a harder time, especially if they can’t show regular income or clear tax filings. The embassies will want verifying employment and source of income.

We’ve seen much higher success recently with the Soft Power route, especially with schools offering cultural programs like Thai cooking, music, or Muay Thai. Many of our students apply this way and get approved even without traditional full-time jobs, as long as they meet the financial proof and course requirements.

Also, 8 days in Hanoi is too little, you should plan for at least 2 weeks or more especially if you plan to apply under the Workation category.

And there is no appeal process if rejected. You can reapply but not recommended for 2nd application in same country