There’s no blanket nationwide rule that a police clearance is always required for DTV or retirement visas. Many applicants were not asked at all. That said, some embassies/consulates may request it on a case-by-case basis, especially for retirement visas (more common with O-A / O-X than others).

You don’t need a return ticket to apply for the DTV. The application focuses on eligibility (financial proof + soft power/workcation docs), not onward travel.

That said, airlines may ask for onward travel at check-in when you fly, so some people book a flexible or refundable onward ticket just in case.

No, you don’t need to go today.

If you leave Thailand before the 90-day due date, the 90-day report is no longer required. When you return on 12 Feb, a new 90-day cycle starts from your re-entry date.

The funds are more than sufficient, but money alone doesn’t qualify you.

For DTV (Soft Power), you must show enrollment with a recognized Thai institution (school/center) that issues official documents for the activity. Buddhist study/meditation can qualify only if it’s through an approved organization and the consulate accepts it. Approval depends on the embassy, not finances.

Yes.

TDAC is still required for everyone arriving in Thailand, including DTV holders.

Fill it out online before arrival and keep the confirmation (digital is fine).

DTV is better if you want flexibility and longer-term stays (up to 5 years) without being tied to frequent classes, and you can meet the financial requirements.

ED is better if your main goal is studying (language or school), costs less upfront, but comes with stricter attendance rules and more frequent renewals.

Neither is “better” for everyone — it’s about what fits your plans and budget.

Congrats

The key thing is that the 5 years is the visa’s validity, not your permission to stay for 5years straight.

With DTV

• You get up to 180 days per entry

• You can extend once per entry

• You must leave and re-enter to reset the stay

• Soft power = proof of ongoing activity, not a one-time class

Soft power isn’t a loophole — it’s an official policy category (same level as workcation). If there were changes, they’d apply going forward, not retroactively.

People on soft power aren’t doing anything illegal — they’re just not working locally. As long as that stays true, there’s nothing special to worry about.

Age isn’t a problem for the Muay Thai (Soft Power) option. Immigration doesn’t set age limits.

Many gyms offer beginner-friendly, non-contact Muay Thai, and some are used to older students and women. For visa purposes, it’s about enrolment and attendance, not intensity or fighting.

Best approach:

• Ask gyms if they offer beginner / fitness-style Muay Thai

• Confirm they can issue visa support documents in English

• You can pace training to your ability

If you enjoy CrossFit, you’ll likely be fine with a beginner program.

Congratulations