The LTR is the best if you qualify. If you travel a lot the DTV is easier and a bit cheaper. You don't have to deal with yearly extensions or pay for re-entry permits so in the end it's cheaper. It's valid for 5 years so more flexibility if you go somewhere and end up getting stuck for an extra month or two, you don't have to be back for that yearly date. Also lower financial requirements and you don't have to keep funds in a Thai bank. If you don't travel the benefit would just be on the financial side.

@Alma **************

I'd seen your previous posts and questions in this and the DTV group so was happy you finally got it.

@Alma **************

glad you finally got it and it all worked out. Leave whenever it's convenient but before your 60 days expires. I'd print a copy to take with you and check to make sure you get the 180 days when you get stamped in again. After everything you've gone through to get it, I'd be paranoid of anything going wrong!

@Rob ********

lying on a visa application is a form of deception and when it results in someone obtaining the visa it is considered fraudulent. Of course many people obtain the visas using agents. Some agents actually work within the requirements but it's common knowledge that many agents also assist people in fraudulently obtaining visas... putting money in the bank for retirees being one of the most common. Eventually, immigration cracks down and visas become harder to access like what's happened to volunteer and ED visas. I think it was 2 years, maybe even last year, some agent visa mills for ED visas were shut down in Chiang Mai and people had their visas revoked. In all probability the agencies have already opened under other names. This isn't uncommon or unheard of in most countries when it comes to immigration and will probably never end while there are loop holes to work around. Everyone should make their own decisions about how to go about it and do what they are comfortable with.

Anonymous participant Marcus is giving you the best advice... unless money is no issue for you and your passport doesn't allow you to enter visa exempt. What category would you apply for? It's either spending time getting your paperwork together, organizing and paying for treatment or Muay Thai all of which is some hassle.

The only upside of doing the visa before visiting, if money isn't an issue and you have the time for it, getting stamped in for 180 days will give you time to figure out if you like Thailand and what area might work.

Thailand isn't for everyone so actually coming here and figuring out if you like it first isn't a bad idea. Someone had done what you did, came here and after about a month realized it wasn't for him. He posted in the group but got roasted pretty seriously but I'm sure he isn't the only one who has done this.

Yes, people have tried and some have been successful in fraudulently obtaining the DTV but most would be smart enough not to post about it... though with this group you never know. The only thing the Thailand e-visa system does is change the method of sending in your information. It's still processed by the local Thai embassy or consulate based on where you are. The embassy can and has asked for proof you are in the country like passport pages and proof of fully paid hotel bookings. They can also ask people to come in for interviews. Put in your current location and what embassy you want to apply through and the system will tell you if you can apply. There is also this little note under current location "Your current location is a country or territory in which you remain at the time that you lodge an application" that everyone seems to ignore.

If you lie about your current location and proceed with the application you are technically" violating the terms and conditions of the visa you applied for by providing false information. That page you agree to just before submitting the application states that the information provided is accurate... saying you are somewhere you aren't would be considered false. You do you, but you do risk losing the fee if they determine you lied on the application.

@Allnew *******

you are referring to December 6? It changes to online January 1.

It's all online through the e-visa site from January 1 on. Most nearby embassies have switched or are switching over in January. This has been commented on numerous times in the group.

Anonymous participant the only person who can answer which is better is you since it's based entirely on your personal circumstances.

How much is the guardian visa compared to the DTV? What's the paperwork requirement? DTV for freelancers can require a lot of paperwork and proof of portfolio, etc. If you want the DTV you need to leave Thailand and apply in a nearby country, if following the actual requirements. Depending where you go and how complete your application is will determine the length of time but could take 7 business days... longer if they ask for additional info. Not sure if you have to leave to get the guardian visa, but the school can answer that for you. If you are only planning on staying 6 months paying for a 5 year visa doesn't make sense unless you are planning on coming back and forth before it expires.

What Embassy did you apply at? Some state on the site that you must remain in country until the DTV is issued. Check to see if the one you applied at shows this. Some people had success, others were called in for an interview, some were questioned at immigration when they noticed the stamps and date visa was issued. Impossible to say if this will work for you or not.