When applying for the DTV under the "soft power" category, like Thai cooking classes, you initially need proof of enrollment. Upon entry, you don't need to show this again for the first 180 days, but for extensions, having updated proof of your continued participation might be wise- some post in this group has experience already having their DTV extension. However, discretion lies with immigration officers, so keeping documentation handy is advisable. π
When transitioning from a Non-Immigrant O visa to DTV, you effectively need to ensure that you're not holding two active visas simultaneously, which means you might need to cancel or let your current visa expire before applying for the DTV. Some experiences suggest that entering Thailand on the new visa could automatically cancel or deactivate the previous one, especially if no re-entry permit is attached to the old visa. However, for clarity and to avoid any administrative hiccups, it's recommended to either formally cancel your existing visa or confirm with Thai immigration or an embassy that your visa status is clear before proceeding with the DTV application. Remember, consulting with a legal expert is advisable for personalized advice. π
The official guideline for the DTV application process typically advises that applicants should remain in the country where they submitted their application until approval. This is because, during the application process, additional documentation might be requested, or you might need to attend an interview at the embassy or consulate. π