Yes, it is possible to renew your Thai driving licence on a Non-Immigrant visa, but there are some important details you need to know—especially after the COVID-related disruptions. 1. Eligibility

• Visa type: Non-Immigrant visa holders (O, B, ED, etc.) are eligible to renew their driving licence.

• Licence type: Applies to Thai driving licences or foreign licences converted to Thai licences.

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2. Licence Duration

• Normally, car licences (Group 2) can be renewed for 5 years if:

• You are under 60 years old.

• You provide proof of residence in Thailand (lease agreement, condo registration, or work permit).

• Licences may only be renewed for 1–5 years depending on your age and visa type. After COVID, authorities temporarily restricted multi-year renewals, but normal procedures have resumed in most provinces.

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3. Documents Required

1. Current driving licence (original and copy)

2. Passport with Non-Immigrant visa

3. TM.7 form (application form from the Department of Land Transport)

4. Medical certificate (from a Thai hospital or clinic)

5. Proof of residence in Thailand

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4. Process

1. Visit the Department of Land Transport (DLT) office in your province.

2. Submit your documents and take the eye test and physical tests if required.

3. Pay the renewal fee:

• Car licence: ~505 THB for 5 years

• Motorcycle licence: ~305 THB for 5 years

4. Receive your new licence on the same day.

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5. Tips & Notes

• Renew early: You can renew up to 6 months before expiry.

• COVID-related extensions: Most offices now honor standard renewal periods; check your local DLT office for any specific local rules.

• Foreign licence holders: If you converted a foreign licence, the renewal follows the same rules as a Thai licence.

Immigration authorities at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport have recently intensified scrutiny of foreign travelers, leading to an increase in entry denials. Several factors contribute to this heightened vigilance:

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🔍 Key Reasons for Denied Entry

1. Extended Stays Without Appropriate Visas

Travelers who have spent prolonged periods in Thailand on tourist visas or visa-exempt entries may face questions about the legitimacy of their visits. For instance, individuals who have stayed in the country for over six months without a clear purpose may be denied entry. 

2. Inadequate Financial Means

Immigration officers may refuse entry if they believe a traveler lacks sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay. This is often cited under Immigration Act Clause 12, subsection 2, which pertains to having no reasonable means of sustenance. 

3. Incomplete or Suspicious Documentation

Travelers who cannot provide adequate proof of accommodation, return tickets, or financial stability may be denied entry. Additionally, failure to register for the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before arrival can lead to delays or refusal of entry. 

4. Association with Unlawful Activities

Individuals linked to illegal activities, such as call center scams, may face entry bans. For example, over 7,000 foreign nationals have been denied entry due to involvement in such activities. 

5. Misuse of Visa Exemptions

Repeated use of visa exemptions or tourist visas without a legitimate purpose can raise suspicions. Immigration officers may question the intent of travelers who frequently enter and exit the country without clear reasons. 

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🛂 Tips to Ensure Smooth Entry

• Complete TDAC Registration: Ensure you register for the Thailand Digital Arrival Card online at least 72 hours before your arrival. 

• Provide Clear Documentation: Carry proof of accommodation, return or onward travel tickets, and evidence of sufficient financial means.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Be ready to explain the purpose of your visit, especially if you’ve had extended stays in Thailand previously.

• Respect Immigration Decisions: If denied entry, comply with the officer’s instructions and consider applying for a visa through a Thai consulate or embassy before attempting to enter again.

It’s possible to apply for Thailand’s Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) using soft power activities like a 9-month Muay Thai course, even if your primary income is from hosting on Airbnb. However, certain considerations and documentation are crucial to enhance your application’s success.

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✅ Eligibility for DTV with Muay Thai & Airbnb Income

• Soft Power Activity: Engaging in a Muay Thai course qualifies as a legitimate soft power activity, provided it’s a structured program lasting at least six months.

• Income Source: While Airbnb hosting isn’t classified as remote work, it can be presented as self-employment or freelance income. Ensure you have comprehensive documentation to support this claim.

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📄 Recommended Documentation

To strengthen your application:

• Proof of Income: Provide bank statements, Airbnb earnings reports, and tax documents to validate your income from hosting.

• Muay Thai Enrollment: Obtain an acceptance letter or enrollment confirmation from the Muay Thai gym, detailing the course duration and structure.

• Financial Stability: Demonstrate a minimum balance of 500,000 THB in a bank account to meet Thailand’s financial requirements for the DTV.

• Guarantor Details: If required, provide information about a local guarantor in Thailand. Note that some applicants have successfully applied without a guarantor. 

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⚠️ Considerations & Potential Challenges

• Application Rejections: There have been instances where applicants faced rejections due to insufficient documentation or unclear income sources. It’s essential to present a clear and consistent application. 

• Income Classification: Clearly categorize your Airbnb hosting income as self-employment or freelance work. Ambiguity in income classification can lead to complications.

• Visa Conditions: Remember, the DTV allows for remote work for foreign entities and participation in approved soft power activities. It doesn’t permit employment with Thai companies. 

⏳ Typical Processing Time

• Standard Processing: Vietnam’s e-visa applications are generally processed within 3 to 5 working days. However, delays can occur due to factors like public holidays, high application volumes, or the need for additional documentation. 

• Current Status: Since you’ve been waiting for 6 days, it’s possible that your application is still within the typical processing window.

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🛂 Next Steps

1. Check Application Status: Visit the official Vietnam Immigration website to check the status of your application. Ensure all details are correct and match your passport information.

2. Contact Support: If your application is still pending beyond the typical processing time, consider reaching out to Vietnam’s immigration support for assistance. They can provide updates or clarify any issues.

3. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on your email for any updates or requests for additional information from the immigration authorities.

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✈️ Travel Plans

While awaiting your visa approval, it’s advisable to remain in Hanoi as required. Once approved, you can proceed with your travel plans. If you have specific destinations in mind or need assistance with accommodations or activities in Vietnam

90-Day Reporting Requirement

• Yes, if you are staying in Thailand on a long-term visa (like a DTV visa) for more than 90 days, you must report your address to Thai Immigration every 90 days.

• This is called the 90-Day Reporting or TM47 report.

• How to report:

• In person at the local immigration office, or

• By mail (if staying in Thailand), or

• Online (in some provinces through the Thai Immigration system).

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180-Day Stay

• Your DTV visa allows you to stay up to 1 year (or as specified on your visa).

• The 180 days you mentioned refers to the maximum single stay allowed before visa renewal or extension if applicable.

• Even if you stay continuously, you still need to submit the 90-day report.