Are retirees moving to the new DTV visa - anybody done it?

[Scouse123]

I have been reading today on Asean Now about the new DTV visas, as up to now with having a long term O visa followed by extension of stays, I have not paid much attention.

 

It does seem , once you are in possession of one, to be a much better visa deal than those we are on with extensions of stay.

 

There is no Re entry permit,  it is for five years and the money in the bank option seems to be 500K, 300K better than my extension of stay, not that I ever use the 800K,nor would I use the 500K it stays there permanently 

 

With five years, I would not be at immigration every year begging extensions of stay, and the costs for such a DTV visa are negligible.(10,000 baht)

 

Now, I would hardly be applying at 62 for a Muay Thai visa, but surely a soft power visa based on cooking classes and skills could be acceptable, couldn't it?

 

Are there such places to enrol for cooking classes in Isaarn?

 

The only downside I see, is applying in country of origin, unless it can be done and applied for over here in Asia?

 

To retirees, is there something I am not seeing here in this package?  What are the downsides?

 

Have any retirees moved or are considering this option in the near future?

[Foxx]

Length of stay is only 180 days, so you either need to leave the country or extend (once only) at Immigration.

 

Simply being retired doesn't qualify you.  You need to be working remotely, being educated, or undergoing medical treatment.

[Scouse123]

3 hours ago, Foxx said:

Length of stay is only 180 days, so you either need to leave the country or extend (once only) at Immigration.

 

Simply being retired doesn't qualify you.  You need to be working remotely, being educated, or undergoing medical treatment.

 

I thought you could extend which took you up to one year, and then do the same the next year and so on making it a yearly visa?

 

And there were soft power DTV visas for those studying catering and/or music and Arts etc.

[Foxx]

23 minutes ago, Scouse123 said:

 

I thought you could extend which took you up to one year, and then do the same the next year and so on making it a yearly visa?

 

Yes.  Forced visit to Immigration at six months, then border run after 12.  Wash and repeat.  Not sure that makes it any better than a retirement visa which doesn't require a border run.

 

23 minutes ago, Scouse123 said:

And there were soft power DTV visas for those studying catering and/or music and Arts etc.

 

That's pretty much covered by "being educated", which I wrote.  My understanding, however, is that the authorities have not qualified what kinds of study will qualify.

[Scouse123]

1 hour ago, Foxx said:

 

Yes.  Forced visit to Immigration at six months, then border run after 12.  Wash and repeat.  Not sure that makes it any better than a retirement visa which doesn't require a border run.

 

 

That's pretty much covered by "being educated", which I wrote.  My understanding, however, is that the authorities have not qualified what kinds of study will qualify.

 

@Foxx  it just seems less hassle and lower requirements, 500K which once shown can be used as cashflow, plus a visa that lasts 5 years and no need for a multi entry permit when leaving the country.

 

A woman has just been granted a 5 year visa for DTV and she is only going on a two week cookery course!!!!....😁 

 

Many of us, have the 800K stuck in the bank, then the multi entry permit, and it's a yearly exercise. I am never in the country more than six months without a break anyway.

[howerde]

I am considering it using the soft power way, though i am waiting to see what changes they make  later this year or early next year to the retirement visas, one thing that dose concern me using the DTV visa is at the  180 day point trying to extend for another 180 days is what are immigration going to want to see ie do they want there to see 500 000 in your account  or if working are they going to want see bank statements showing activity or tax returns etc etc

[Scouse123]

2 hours ago, howerde said:

 I am considering it using the soft power way, though i am waiting to see what changes they make  later this year or early next year to the retirement visas, one thing that dose concern me using the DTV visa is at the  180 day point trying to extend for another 180 days is what are immigration going to want to see ie do they want there to see 500 000 in your account  or if working are they going to want see bank statements showing activity or tax returns etc etc

 

I can't see them asking tax returns as not their domain, and from what I can gather the 500K shown, is there to prove you can support yourself, but unlike the 800K method of retirees and ensuring 400K is left in at all times, there is no mention of this money being left in the bank all the time. Besides, you can have the money in another country and currency!!!

 

Even the 800K method is stupid, the two months before and three months after leaving funds untouched was, they reckoned, designed to stop agents putting up the money to obtain extensions then pulling it out again.

 

However, if a retiree is supposed to be using these funds to live in Thailand, why must they permanently lock 800K for five months, (two months before and three months after), and lock the remaining 400K permanently in the bank.

 

Back on track to your other point, I believe you are spot on in waiting, as we need more information to filter through regarding the 500K, Bank statements etc and is the 180 days renewable every year, or just once, and will there be all of a sudden, a policy change leaving people high and dry.

 

I too, was considering soft power option on catering, which I have experience or concerts and music, similarly, I have experience.

 

My Non O retirement extension is next July, so I have time.

[Unify]

I suspect immigration will want you to prove you are still engaged in the activity you signed up for, in order to extend. So, a two- week cooking class, or a couple of medical appointments might not do. We'll see. 

 

If you travel in and out of Thailand regularly, or semi-regularly, the DTV would seem to be a good option. If you stay in Thailand most of the time, you're just making yourself take more trips -- either to immigration, or out of the country. 

 

Also, the DTV does not require you to apply from your country of origin. You can apply from any number of nearby countries.

[PeachCH]

As a retiree so easy to get a one year extension without any financial requirements. (With Pattaya agent around 15k.)😁 No need for a DTV VISA)

[Scouse123]

1 minute ago, PeachCH said:

As a retiree so easy to get a one year extension without any financial requirements. (With Pattaya agent around 15k.)😁 No need for a DTV VISA)

 

Always shied away from that option, not for any holier than thou reasons, mainly because I worry about it coming home to roost.

 

The Immigration officers would be moved for a week to inactive posts, but the unfortunate retiree would be left in a world of $hit

[AlaskaDave]

The big attraction of the DTV for me is that the guarantee money, the 500K baht, can be in my U.S. bank. Right now, if  pass away, the 400K I have in Bangkok Bank cannot be easily transferred to my Thai wife. It should be easy but it's not. 

 

I'm here on a marriage visa and that's been working fine for me except for the fact that most of my funds are stuck in a Thai bank account that can't be shared with my wife. 

[newbee2022]

23 hours ago, Scouse123 said:

 

@Foxx  it just seems less hassle and lower requirements, 500K which once shown can be used as cashflow, plus a visa that lasts 5 years and no need for a multi entry permit when leaving the country.

 

A woman has just been granted a 5 year visa for DTV and she is only going on a two week cookery course!!!!....😁 

 

Many of us, have the 800K stuck in the bank, then the multi entry permit, and it's a yearly exercise. I am never in the country more than six months without a break anyway.

Read "Foxx" again!

[Bvor]

1 hour ago, Scouse123 said:

Besides, you can have the money in another country and currency!!!

Can I use evisa DTV for 5 X 35 day visits per year for 5 years.........500K in Oz bank, <180 days per year, no extensions, have ongoing dental treatment?

I wonder what confirmation of dental treatment over a 5 year period (why  not) would be acceptable?

For 10,000 baht maybe the optimum visa for my circumstances...............unless I'm missing something! 

[Scouse123]

1 hour ago, newbee2022 said:

Read "Foxx" again!

 

Read it properly, I don't get what point you think I am missing.

[Scouse123]

1 hour ago, Bvor said:

Can I use evisa DTV for 5 X 35 day visits per year for 5 years.........500K in Oz bank, <180 days per year, no extensions, have ongoing dental treatment?

I wonder what confirmation of dental treatment over a 5 year period (why  not) would be acceptable?

For 10,000 baht maybe the optimum visa for my circumstances...............unless I'm missing something! 

 

These are the loopholes many of us are waiting for clarification on.

[Scouse123]

1 hour ago, newbee2022 said:

Read "Foxx" again!

 

 

If you are referring to the ' being educated ' point he made, I've got that covered having experience in both catering and the music industry, to apply for the soft power visa.

[nglodnig]

With my retirement extension I am using the "monthly payment into bank" option as I need to send money anway so in my case I do not the see the point of a DTV - especially if I have to leave the country 180 days a year

[crazykopite]

3 hours ago, Scouse123 said:

 

Always shied away from that option, not for any holier than thou reasons, mainly because I worry about it coming home to roost.

 

The Immigration officers would be moved for a week to inactive posts, but the unfortunate retiree would be left in a world of $hit

I used to until a mate passed away three years ago and the bank wouldn't release his 800k I now keep the bare minimum in the bank and use an agent for 15k per year only require a passport and up-to-date photos  now renewing for the 4th time never an issue the agency has been providing the service for more than 15 years so I imagine there must be 1,000s of customers using them 

Edited October 30 by crazykopite

[newbee2022]

41 minutes ago, Scouse123 said:

 

 

If you are referring to the ' being educated ' point he made, I've got that covered having experience in both catering and the music industry, to apply for the soft power visa.

I mean this:

"Yes.  Forced visit to Immigration at six months, then border run after 12.  Wash and repeat.  Not sure that makes it any better than a retirement visa which doesn't require a border run."

So, I can't see the slightest advantage to go for it instead retirement.

[Bvor]

4 minutes ago, Scouse123 said:

These are the loopholes many of us are waiting for clarification on.

Yeah, I can wait and see hoping for further clarification.

My yearly 5 x 35 day circumstances are different to the long term stayers..

Nevertheless the evisa DTV @10000 baht may be better in terms of cost and convenience then numerous VE's, SETV's, METV's, Non O's, extensions, etc.

Will talk with my Thai dentist re implants on 5 year plan - sure costly, but I do need replacements for my many losses not to mention gain a killer smile!

cheers

 

 

 

  

   

 

 

 

 

[Caldera]

Why would a retiree do that?

 

I think the DTV is a great option for those younger than 50 who don't qualify for any non-immigrant visa and extensions thereof. But once you're 50 and can get yearly retirement extensions, that's hard to beat for overall convenience. 

[Scouse123]

5 hours ago, newbee2022 said:

I mean this:

"Yes.  Forced visit to Immigration at six months, then border run after 12.  Wash and repeat.  Not sure that makes it any better than a retirement visa which doesn't require a border run."

So, I can't see the slightest advantage to go for it instead retirement.

 

Ah OK,

 

Well I am never here 12 months solid and take at least two trips to UK a year and two or three to Cambodia. So border runs wouldn't be an issue.

 

Not saying I would go for it, just trying to find out the pros and cons.

[Scouse123]

4 hours ago, Caldera said:

Why would a retiree do that?

 

I think the DTV is a great option for those younger than 50 who don't qualify for any non-immigrant visa and extensions thereof. But once you're 50 and can get yearly retirement extensions, that's hard to beat for overall convenience. 

 

 

I've explained my reasons in the opening post. I am not saying I would go for it, but I will certainly check out the option.

 

I am hearing more and more about people just paying agents 15K a year and that's it.

 

TBH, I've always been a bit frightened of that option. Now, I am hearing about people passing away and they are literally freezing the 800K, it's making me think seriously that honesty is not the best policy.

 

6 hours ago, crazykopite said:

I used to until a mate passed away three years ago and the bank wouldn't release his 800k I now keep the bare minimum in the bank and use an agent for 15k per year only require a passport and up-to-date photos  now renewing for the 4th time never an issue the agency has been providing the service for more than 15 years so I imagine there must be 1,000s of customers using them 

 

@Caldera Please read the above, it makes one think.

[Presnock]

For AN readers interested in citizenship and new tax preparations for 2025: suggest folks read today's Thai Examiner as cabinet has received instructions on easier road to Thai citizenship for those long term stayers and a bit that ALL foreigners that become tax residents 2024 will be required to file income tax forms if having income of more than 120K baht.   Maybe we will get all the information soonest.  Good luck.

[Bvor]

16 hours ago, Scouse123 said:

Well I am never here 12 months solid and take at least two trips to UK a year and two or three to Cambodia. So border runs wouldn't be an issue.

 I have just now revisited the DTV YouTube interview with the deputy director, consulate services MFA.

At about the 8.30 minute mark of the video he seemed say that if a DTV holder exits and then re enters Thailand prior to initial

180 day allowance that a second 180 days allowance will be reset from re entry date.

 As such me thinks if one so desired that would allow for say 2 x 175 day cycles per year without the need for extensions. 

Have I misinterpreted his words?

[Foxx]

22 hours ago, Presnock said:

For AN readers interested in citizenship and new tax preparations for 2025: suggest folks read today's Thai Examiner as cabinet has received instructions on easier road to Thai citizenship for those long term stayers and a bit that ALL foreigners that become tax residents 2024 will be required to file income tax forms if having income of more than 120K baht.   Maybe we will get all the information soonest.  Good luck.

 

(1) The "easier road to Thai citizenship" is not for the likes of us.  It's only for people from neighbouring countries and suchlike.  See https://www.thaiexaminer.com/thai-news-foreigners/2024/10/31/ministry-of-interior-clarifies-new-citizenship-measure-not-aimed-at-expats-but-stateless-people/

 

(2) Speculation about the requirement to file income tax forms appears to be based upon an old article.  https://www.thaiexaminer.com/thai-news-foreigners/2024/09/08/revenue-department-preparing-legislation-as-new-expat-tax-regime-may-link-visas-and-tax-returns/

Edited November 1 by Foxx

[sappersrest]

There are reports in A chiang Mai FB page that some people are having trouble opening Tha bank accounts with a DTV as regarded by some as a tourist visa.⁹

[Presnock]

21 hours ago, Bvor said:

 I have just now revisited the DTV YouTube interview with the deputy director, consulate services MFA.

At about the 8.30 minute mark of the video he seemed say that if a DTV holder exits and then re enters Thailand prior to initial

180 day allowance that a second 180 days allowance will be reset from re entry date.

 As such me thinks if one so desired that would allow for say 2 x 175 day cycles per year without the need for extensions. 

Have I misinterpreted his words?

That is pretty much like the LTR, instead of having to provide BOI with residence once a year, if the LTR holder exits Thailand anytime less than that year, upon re-entering Thailand he doesn't have to notify BOI of his residence until 1-year later.  I guess immigration upon his entering reports it or something.

[clokwise]

On 11/1/2024 at 10:51 AM, sappersrest said:

There are reports in A chiang Mai FB page that some people are having trouble opening Tha bank accounts with a DTV as regarded by some as a tourist visa.⁹

 

Further speculation: Five-year driver licenses may not be issued against a DTV, whereas with a Non-O you can do it.

 

Biggest DTV benefit for me vs Non-O is I won't need an exit visa anymore. Such a pita and not cheap.

 

My problem with the DTV is I have no income whatsoever. I'm envious of you guys with pensions! But if it's as simple as signing up for a 2 week cooking course I'll reconsider, even though I'm a decent Thai cook already I'm sure I can learn something new.

 

 

[cranki]

I was on a marriage extension, then changed to retirement (when old enough) and have now changed to this DTV.

This new DTV works absolutely perfect for ME in my situation, still working FiFo in the Oil & Gas game.

5 years, no yearly extensions, no 90 day reports required, no re-entry required, absolutely perfect 🙂

nothing to worry about for 5 years....game changer for me  :-)