Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) –
Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Destination Thailand Visa (DTV)?

 

The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is a long-term visa that allows eligible applicants to stay in Thailand for up to 5 years, with multiple entries and a maximum stay of 180 days per entry (extendable for another 180 days).

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2. What are the requirements to apply for a DTV Visa?

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To apply for the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV), you’ll need to meet certain criteria based on your chosen category. For those applying under the Soft Power category, enrolling in an approved Thai cultural activity—such as a Thai cooking course or Muay Thai training—is essential.

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At Arun Thai Cooking School, we offer a DTV-approved Thai culinary program that meets embassy criteria, including official enrollment letters to support your visa application.

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📌 Several Thai embassies have begun requesting that courses include at least 1 class per week. While this is not yet a universal requirement, programs with fewer sessions may face a higher risk of rejection.

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General Requirements for a DTV Visa

 

Before applying, make sure you have the following:​

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1. Valid Passport – At least 6 months validity from the application date.
2. Passport-Sized Photo – Recent, taken within the last 6 months on a white background.
3. Proof of Current Location – A passport stamp or residence permit confirming where you are applying from.
4. Financial Proof – At least 500,000 THB in savings or sufficient monthly income:

• 6-month bank statement

• Payslips or employment contract

• Sponsorship letter (if applicable)

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Additional Requirements for Soft Power (Thai Cooking & Muay Thai)

 

If you are applying under Soft Power, you must provide:​

1. Proof of Enrollment – An official confirmation letter from an approved institution offering Thai cultural education.
2. School Registration documents – A copy of the school’s official business registration, as required by Thai embassies.
3. Minimum Course Duration – The program should last at least 6 months​, and include minimum of 1 class per week to meet embassy guidelines

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💡 At Arun Thai Cooking School, we provide:
• All official documentation required by Thai embassies  
• A fully aligned curriculum with 30 hands-on classes (5/month)  
• Trusted visa support (optional)

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📌 Important Notes

• Embassy approval is not guaranteed — decisions are made at the discretion of the reviewing officer.

• Requirements may vary slightly by country. Always check with your local Thai embassy or consulate before applying.

• Submit all documents in clear, complete form to avoid delays or rejection.

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💡 ​Have questions? Email contact@arunthaicooking.com or connect with our social links below. You may also check out our program details and steps for registration.

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3) Can I work in Thailand with a DTV Visa?

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No. The DTV Visa does not permit working for a Thai employer.

It is designed for remote workers (workcation), cultural learners (Soft Power), and dependents. If you work remotely for overseas clients, you may qualify under the Workcation category, but not the Soft Power (cultural learning) route.

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4) What are the financial requirements for the DTV Visa?

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Applicants must show at least 500,000 THB (≈ USD 15,000) in a personal savings or checking account to prove financial stability.

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🔹 Financial Proof Must Meet These Criteria:

• The account must be in your name (matching your passport).

• The money must be in a checking or savings account. Investment accounts, crypto, or securities are not accepted.

• Bank statements must be issued within 14 days of application.

• Bank statements in PDF downloaded from bank apps are accepted

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Sponsored Financial Proof (Using a Parent or Spouse’s Account)

 

If you don’t have sufficient funds in your personal bank account, you may use a parent or spouse as a financial sponsor.

You'll need to submit:

• Sponsorship letter confirming financial support

• Proof of relationship (e.g., birth certificate for parental sponsorship or marriage certificate for spousal sponsorship)​

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Different Embassy Policies on Financial Proof

 

Thai embassies in various countries may have slightly different requirements regarding financial proof:

• Laos, Vietnam, Indonesia: Applicants must show three months of financial history, while maintaining THB500,000 in their account over the duration.

• Philippines: Only the current account balance of 500,000 THB is required.

• Singapore, Malaysia, Japan: May require additional checks and documents such as proof of income.

 

💡 Applicants should check the specific requirements of the Thai embassy where they intend to apply, as financial criteria may vary and change without notice.

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 5) What are the costs associated with a DTV Visa?​

 

The total cost of a DTV Visa depends on the embassy’s fee, course selection, and whether you apply independently or with our visa partner. Here’s a breakdown:

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• Course Tuition:​

  • 6-Month Program:
    ▸ From 1 Dec: THB 32,900

  • 12-Month Program:
    ▸ From 1 Dec: THB 58,900

• Visa Support Package (optional): THB 4,500 + Embassy Fee

      ✓ Full document review & submission

      ✓ Direct embassy coordination

      ✓ Expert guidance on latest requirements

      Our 4,500 THB fee refunded if visa is denied

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💡 ​Have questions? Email contact@arunthaicooking.com or connect with our social links below. You may also check out our program details and steps for registration.​

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6) How do I apply for a DTV Visa?

 

There are two ways to apply for the DTV Visa:

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1. Apply Directly via Thai e-Visa Website
You can submit your application independently at thaievisa.go.th.

Note: Most Thai embassies now require online submissions. Walk-in applications are rarely accepted.

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2. Apply Through Arun Thai Cooking & Our Trusted Visa Consultants

We offer a full-service visa solution: a DTV-approved Thai cooking program plus expert visa consultants to guide your application from start to finish.

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Trusted Consultants – Our partners are vetted and experienced with DTV visa cases
Higher Approval Rate – Dozens of successful applications processed
Embassy-Aligned Process – We ensure all documents are complete, correct, and submitted on your behalf
Simplified Experience – One-time payment includes everything: course, visa support, and embassy fee

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7) Can I apply for a DTV Visa while in Thailand?

 

No, you must apply from outside Thailand at a Thai embassy or consulate. The DTV Visa cannot be obtained or converted from another visa within Thailand at this time.

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💡 ​Have questions? Email contact@arunthaicooking.com or connect with our social links below. You may also check out our program details and steps for registration.​​​​​