16 minutes ago, Thingamabob said:

I appreciate that  DTV works well for some people, but not in my case.

Great news for you.

The thread is primarily directed to anyone looking at a DTV as an option.

 

For someone who like the hassle with border runs.....not for me.

Enjoy 😊 

12 hours ago, DrJack54 said:

Great news for you.

The thread is primarily directed to anyone looking at a DTV as an option.

 

Thank you.

I also switched from Non-O Retirement to DTV shortly after it came out.  I applied through Vancouver consulate and was approved a couple of hours after I applied.  Crazy fast!  Wife was approved for her DTV the next morning as a dependent on mine.

 

A few months ago my BKK debit card expired.  I had to go in to the bank with my passport and get a new card.  They saw I was on a DTV and it was no issue as I've had it for a few years now and got it while on the Non-O Retirement and haven't use an agent for anything in Thailand.

 

I'm on the workcation type of DTV as I'm a business owner in Canada.  I was a self-employed software engineer who retired in 2017.  Now I just manage my Canadian company's finances (that we live off) with calls, emails and limited online meetings over things like taxes, corporate registration renewal, corp. investments etc.  No more software development but it's enough work for a workcation DTV.

 

We've come through customs multiple times with the DTVs and had no issues at BKK or CNX.  The big reasons to switch were no 800K x 2 needed to sit in Thailand beyond what we need to live off (Canada just stopped issuing affidavits of income), no visits to immigration and multiple entry for 5 years.  We come and go fairly regularly so every time we enter we get a fresh 180 days.

It's good. The only things that are annoying about it are the reports of banking issues for pre-existing accounts and the downgrade from 5 year to 2 year license.

Calling a 5 year valid, long term visa a tourist visa is stupid in my opinion.

7 minutes ago, RoninTech said:

I also switched from Non-O Retirement to DTV shortly after it came out.  I applied through Vancouver consulate and was approved a couple of hours after I applied.  Crazy fast!  Wife was approved for her DTV the next morning as a dependent on mine.

 

A few months ago my BKK debit card expired.  I had to go in to the bank with my passport and get a new card.  They saw I was on a DTV and it was no issue as I've had it for a few years now and got it while on the Non-O Retirement and haven't use an agent for anything in Thailand.

 

I'm on the workcation type of DTV as I'm a business owner in Canada.  I was a self-employed software engineer who retired in 2017.  Now I just manage my Canadian company's finances (that we live off) with calls, emails and limited online meetings over things like taxes, corporate registration renewal, corp. investments etc.  No more software development but it's enough work for a workcation DTV.

 

We've come through customs multiple times with the DTVs and had no issues at BKK or CNX.  The big reasons to switch were no 800K x 2 needed to sit in Thailand beyond what we need to live off (Canada just stopped issuing affidavits of income), no visits to immigration and multiple entry for 5 years.  We come and go fairly regularly so every time we enter we get a fresh 180 days.

Do you do the 90 day reports, or just forget about it?

1 hour ago, sikishrory said:

It's good. The only things that are annoying about it are the reports of banking issues for pre-existing accounts and the downgrade from 5 year to 2 year license.

Calling a 5 year valid, long term visa a tourist visa is stupid in my opinion.

 

Never heard of a downgrade for a driving licence and pretty sure that won't happen where I am.

On 7/19/2025 at 2:14 PM, Scouse123 said:

I can honestly say that, from applying for Business visas, work permits, and retirement extensions based on category 'O', to obtaining a DTV, and even applying for a second passport, I have always done these things myself and properly. I have never had the need to ask for the services of an agent.

 

Even my other half, who now has a 10-year UK tourist visa, I did it myself.

Just out of interest and slightly off topic, but what extra requirements did you have to show for the 10 year visa, did you go from 6 months directly to 10 year, or go to 2 year, then five year first?

On 7/17/2025 at 4:30 PM, Scouse123 said:

 

Switched today from the annual Thai retirement extension circus to the 5-year DTV soft option. My retirement extension officially expires tomorrow — good timing. I actually got approved for the DTV back in January in Cambodia, but sat on it until now.

The Border Run (a.k.a. “Activate DTV Mode”):

 

I didn’t want to waste another full passport page on a giant Lao visa, so I applied for the Lao e-visa — the total cost was $51.75 (because administrative fees are now a thing, apparently). Pricey, but neat and tidy.

 

Entered at Savannakhet. Not a soul in line at the e-visa counter, just me and a bored immigration officer who barely looked up. Quick QR scan, a small sticker (about the size of a postage stamp, but rectangular ) and a Lao immigration stamp — job done.

Immediately did a U-turn and headed back. I wasn’t there for sightseeing, and frankly, Savannakhet isn’t exactly calling to me.

 

Border “Extras”:

• 50 baht bus over the bridge, both ways.

• 40 baht mystery “processing fee” in Laos — no explanation, but a receipt given to get you through the barrier.

• On the way out, immigration staff gave us the famous smile and asked for 100 baht each — no receipt, of course. My Mrs asked, “What’s that for?” and got a smile. Everyone was paying for it. It’s not legal, but arguing about 100 baht at a border post? No thanks — I’ve got whisky to buy.

 

Speaking of which, I scored a 1.75L jug of Johnnie Walker Black at Lao duty-free — $68, with a big glass handle, looking like something Clint Eastwood would take to a gunfight. Cash only.

 

Back in Thailand and now stamped in until January 12, 2026. I’ll be out before that anyway, probably grabbing another jug of whisky.

 

Why I Like the DTV:

• No more yearly visit to immigration with a rainforest’s worth of paperwork.

• Cheaper over five years than doing extensions.

• Yes, you have to leave every six months — but I actually enjoy that. Get a change of scenery, grab some duty-free, and remind yourself why you live in Thailand.

Final Thought:
If you're fed up with the annual immigration dance and piles of documents, the DTV route is smooth, fast, and for me — a no-brainer. If you’ve already obtained approval, simply cross the border and activate it. Easy.

Sounds like a lot of hassle to save an hour out of your life every year in Immigration and a few clicks online every 3 months doing your 90 day which I guess you probably still have to do.  How long will they allow DTV visas. They could change any time. Don't know why so many on here find it so onerous to do their yearly extensions. 

28 minutes ago, garzhe said:

Sounds like a lot of hassle to save an hour out of your life every year in Immigration and a few clicks online every 3 months doing your 90 day which I guess you probably still have to do.  How long will they allow DTV visas. They could change any time. Don't know why so many on here find it so onerous to do their yearly extensions. 

Cleary annual extensions is not difficult for you. 

Perhaps if older and health issues you might not be so clear on that point. 

 

Having 800k tied up has a cost in itself. 

 

You mention "few clicks online" for 90 reporting. 

For those that travel out side of Thailand regularly then requirement to do reporting in person is a pain.. 

 

Especially for those dealing with mega office eg CW or where travel to immigration office is significant. 

 

In any event the thread is from OP outlining his experience. 

1 hour ago, Scouse123 said:

 

Never heard of a downgrade for a driving licence and pretty sure that won't happen where I am.

Must have a valid Non Imm visa or a 1 year extension of stay to qualify for the 5 year driving licence.

DTV is classed as a special type of tourist visa.

Don't know where you are, but it's standard policy at all DTL offices.

25 minutes ago, Liquorice said:

DTV is classed as a special type of tourist visa.

Don't know where you are, but it's standard policy at all DTL offices.

Yes. Reports of folk having a DTV and trying for 5 year renewal have been given 2 years TDL 

2 hours ago, garzhe said:

Sounds like a lot of hassle to save an hour out of your life every year in Immigration and a few clicks online every 3 months doing your 90 day which I guess you probably still have to do.  How long will they allow DTV visas. They could change any time. Don't know why so many on here find it so onerous to do their yearly extensions. 

 

Why should I lock up 800,000 baht in a non-interest-bearing account, which is now worth far less than when I initially invested it 13 years ago, compared to its current value, when I can consider an alternative?

 

The DTV was a simple exercise for me.

 

I have no need to see an immigration officer or visit an immigration office to produce documents for 5 years.

 

It's actually cheaper when you factor in the multi-entry permit, but that was not a consideration for me.

 

I enjoy taking a break from here every six months or even less by leaving the country. I love doing that.

 

Some members on here go to ridiculous lengths to avoid spending a couple of days outside Thailand, which I find totally bizarre.

 

It's a cheap, simple alternative, and if I actually do have to change my driving licence in two years as opposed to five, it's worth it to me.

 

The DTV is not for everyone; it suits some of us, just like the Elite visas are not for everyone.

 

Why the DTV Visa is a Game-Changer for Long-Stay Visitors in Thailand 

 

 

 

✅ No Need to Park Funds in a Thai Bank
Forget about locking up 800,000 baht or proving monthly income—this visa skips the financial hoops.

✅ 5 Years of Flexibility
Valid for 5 years (with a 180-day stay limit, extendable once per entry to 360 days), the DTV provides long-term peace of mind.

✅ No Annual Immigration Headaches
No more yearly renewals, piles of documents, or last-minute immigration surprises.

✅ Multiple Entry/Exit
Like to travel? Leave the country every 6 months for a couple of days and reset the clock—easy!

✅ Ideal for Remote Workers, Digital Nomads, and Long-Term Tourists
Whether you're working online, retired early, or just love Thai life, this visa suits the lifestyle.

2 hours ago, garzhe said:

Sounds like a lot of hassle to save an hour out of your life every year in Immigration and a few clicks online every 3 months doing your 90 day which I guess you probably still have to do.  How long will they allow DTV visas. They could change any time. Don't know why so many on here find it so onerous to do their yearly extensions. 

 

They could change at any time, but I have five years not to worry about that.

 

If they do, I simply revert to a retirement extension, like I have had for 13 years.

 

Speaking of which, this is Thailand, and they could change the rules on retirement extensions as well.

2 hours ago, Burgo1979 said:

Just out of interest and slightly off topic, but what extra requirements did you have to show for the 10 year visa, did you go from 6 months directly to 10 year, or go to 2 year, then five year first?

 

I've been with my partner for 29 years.

 

We had a number of six-month visas and 2-year visas.

 

I enclosed all these and then went straight for the 10-year visa, cutting out the 5-year option, and just told them honestly that, at my age, I don't see us applying again.

 

She has no wish to settle in the UK and nor do I.

4 minutes ago, Scouse123 said:

 

I've been with my partner for 29 years.

 

We had a number of six-month visas and 2-year visas.

 

I enclosed all these and then went straight for the 10-year visa, cutting out the 5-year option, and just told them honestly that, at my age, I don't see us applying again.

 

She has no wish to settly in the UK and nor do I.

Thx, was there any extra paperwork involved, I mean as the sponsor, how do I prove in advance I have the funds to cover future trips?, would it be wise to go for two year first?

2 minutes ago, Burgo1979 said:

Thx, was there any extra paperwork involved, I mean as the sponsor, how do I prove in advance I have the funds to cover future trips?, would it be wise to go for two year first?

 

If you've only had six months, I wouldn't recommend trying to get more than a 2-year term initially.

 

I'm a belt-and-braces type of guy, and I bombarded them with additional information or anything I thought would strengthen my application.

 

I showed them bank balances with considerable savings and proof of ownership of UK property.

3 minutes ago, Scouse123 said:

 

If you've only had six months, I wouldn't recommend trying to get more than a 2-year term initially.

 

I'm a belt-and-braces type of guy, and I bombarded them with additional information or anything I thought would strengthen my application.

 

I showed them bank balances with considerable savings and proof of ownership of UK property.

Thx again.

On 7/19/2025 at 8:58 AM, DrJack54 said:

The reply I was given was 

1. Letter from clinic or hospital stating diagnosis. 

2. Previous appointment history

3. Treatment plan for next 6 months.

I would qualify easily & could ask Bumrungrad. But it is 2 of us & hubby doesn't have a med. history to qualify. 

Your post has given me food for thought.

Does dental treatment qualify?

Hi Scouse123, thank you for your report.
 

Regarding: "The 5-year e-Visa was granted by the Royal Thai Embassy in Phnom Penh in January 2025." — how long did you have to wait?
 

I’m not sure I’m eligible for a DTV, even though I’ve been running commercial websites since 1999. I could still apply for a "standard" 2-month e-Visa.
 

I’ve already done this from Korea. Although I submitted all the requested documents, I had to wait two weeks, and they still asked for additional paperwork. Once I sent the extra documents, I received the e-Visa within 24 hours.
 

So my question is: how long did you have to wait for the e-Visa to be emailed to you after submitting your application?

BTW, if anyone has experience getting an e-Visa through a Thai embassy in another East Asian country — other than Cambodia, like Malaysia, Laos, Vietnam, Japan, etc. — I'm interested!
 

Thank you.

45 minutes ago, anotherfarangishere said:

Hi Scouse123, thank you for your report.
 

Regarding: "The 5-year e-Visa was granted by the Royal Thai Embassy in Phnom Penh in January 2025." — how long did you have to wait?
 

I’m not sure I’m eligible for a DTV, even though I’ve been running commercial websites since 1999. I could still apply for a "standard" 2-month e-Visa.
 

I’ve already done this from Korea. Although I submitted all the requested documents, I had to wait two weeks, and they still asked for additional paperwork. Once I sent the extra documents, I received the e-Visa within 24 hours.
 

So my question is: how long did you have to wait for the e-Visa to be emailed to you after submitting your application?

BTW, if anyone has experience getting an e-Visa through a Thai embassy in another East Asian country — other than Cambodia, like Malaysia, Laos, Vietnam, Japan, etc. — I'm interested!
 

Thank you.

 

I think they are looking at the license more then anything, not really what you are doing or who owns the business. Meaning a business license or company formation documents registered in your home country with a government agency.

1 hour ago, Mark1969 said:

...and have a business license...

I don't.

What else ? Learning Thai cooking?

1 hour ago, anotherfarangishere said:

Hi Scouse123, thank you for your report.
 

Regarding: "The 5-year e-Visa was granted by the Royal Thai Embassy in Phnom Penh in January 2025." — how long did you have to wait?
 

I’m not sure I’m eligible for a DTV, even though I’ve been running commercial websites since 1999. I could still apply for a "standard" 2-month e-Visa.
 

I’ve already done this from Korea. Although I submitted all the requested documents, I had to wait two weeks, and they still asked for additional paperwork. Once I sent the extra documents, I received the e-Visa within 24 hours.
 

So my question is: how long did you have to wait for the e-Visa to be emailed to you after submitting your application?

BTW, if anyone has experience getting an e-Visa through a Thai embassy in another East Asian country — other than Cambodia, like Malaysia, Laos, Vietnam, Japan, etc. — I'm interested!
 

Thank you.

 

Hi,

 

It took approximately 11 to 12 days after submission.

 

They didn't request any additional documents from me.

1 hour ago, Mark1969 said:

 

I think they are looking at the license more then anything, not really what you are doing or who owns the business. Meaning a business license or company formation documents registered in your home country with a government agency.

 

Well,

 

That didn't apply to me, as I obtained a soft power medical DTV.

 

53 minutes ago, anotherfarangishere said:

I don't.

What else ? Learning Thai cooking?

 

Me neither.

 

Thai cooking? I'm not sure whether you're joking or not, but they do verify that you have enrolled, and to confirm enrollment requires paying the course fee in advance.

 

1 hour ago, SunsetT said:

Does dental treatment qualify?

 

I should imagine it does.

1 hour ago, Scouse123 said:

 

Hi,

 

It took approximately 11 to 12 days after submission.

 

They didn't request any additional documents from me.

Thanks!

1 hour ago, Scouse123 said:

 

I should imagine it does.

Really ? Dental treatment doesn't need 5 years... ?

1 hour ago, Scouse123 said:

Thai cooking? I'm not sure whether you're joking or not, but they do verify that you have enrolled, and to confirm enrollment requires paying the course fee in advance.

 

Yes but aroi mac mac ! 😁

Seriously, it's so expensive ?

Otherwise, so that's it ? Muay thai, thai cooking, medical treatment... What else for soft power ?