Lots of people do this. You'll need to do the MDAC for your entry into Malaysia and your TDAC for coming back.

I'd suggest posting in one of the general visa groups instead as this group is more geared to DTV's... though some of the "experts" or at least people who have a clue are in all the groups. The Vancouver consulate probably won't let you in without an appointment unless you are a Thai citizen and is listed for the holidays. Try Thai Visa Advice Q&A.

Can't speak to recent entries but we entered through Hat Yai earlier this year, workcation DTV and dependent, with no issues. No questions asked and officers were friendly.

If you are flying AirAsia they have the FastPass option. A staff member meets you at the bottom of the escalator for international arrivals and takes you to the AirCrew/VIP line and waits until you are stamped in. I don't know if it makes any difference other then getting you through quicker. We arrived on DTV's and didn't get any questions. If you want guaranteed entry you can ask the owner of the group, they'll let you know. If there isn't, it could be worth it to fly to BKK and then domestic to CNX depending on your circumstances.

Yes, many people. Just do a search in the group, there are numerous posts, comments and discussions about it.

@Andi **********

interesting, they must have changed that. I had an existing account and my card got hacked the day before I flew back. Wise sent me a new card to my Thai address. It took almost a month but I got it.

It comes down to personal circumstances. The retirement extensions are easy enough to manage on your own and the benefits of bank accounts, 5 yr DL's, not having to leave are important for many people. We were on the retirement extensions and switched to DTV, it just works better for us. We travel a lot so the DTV being multi entry is great and 180 days is no big deal. We also didn't want to bank the 800K and our country stopped doing the affidavit of income so it's a good option.

Search the group... several posts about Ottawa and Vancouver. Someone recently posted that it's taking longer then expected.

2 options: 1) wait 2) come on visa exempt, go to a nearby country and apply again.

If you come visa exempt you do risk your original application as you should stay in the country you applied to until issued. Some people have had no issue doing that, others have been caught out.

Chat GPT is giving you the information for a "single entry tourist visa" which is a single entry visa and valid for 60 days.